[IdiocyInAction]

Working hard like that isn't really rewarded working for software in Germany, which is why people don't do it as much. If you work hard as a lawyer in Germany, you might make partner or something, which is why lawyers are prepared to do a lot of hours. If you work hard in software, you just get more work.

And there are actually plenty of crappy jobs with overtime in Germany too. Lower pay does not always mean less expectations.

[pjmlp]

Anyone that wants to slave themselves in Germany is able to do so by going freelancing.

You can work as hard as you feel like, charging generous hourly rates.

Just don't be surprised when big corp decides to consolidate external contractors into more well known contracting companies, delivering from Eastern Europe or Asia.