[simne]

Must admit, I've been in similar situation in much younger age, and I could not say, that completely resolved it now, looks like this is eternal problem.

So, I read lot of books on marketing, economics, and project management - overall, about few tens; than practice with my own tiny business, and have lot of talks on business forums..

Once I release, I could now see, what things make most business value, and should been considered most priority, and I concentrate on them.

Unfortunately, my new manager mind, from time to time have significant conflicts with engineering side of my personality, so I have to choose, to have enjoy as engineer, or to make business value.

If you interested in details, ask.

[throwaway02427]

I am not sure I understood your response correctly. I am doing fine as a manager right now in my current role from a performance perspective. I just feel concerned that my skillset won't translate to anywhere else. Maybe it will. Programming skills always felt more concrete and more obviously valued. I also miss the more direct feedback loop you get as an IC coder. I could try to move up to become VP or move back to become an IC. No idea which one is more viable and even less which one would make me happier.

[simne]

Only must add, management is mostly art of delegation responsibilities to right person, or to right organization, so you could do more important things, or more pleasant things, still being boss.