[dafzal]

> in order to satisfactorily pass our performance reviews.

Stop caring about promo cycles and treat your job as a paycheck. There is always another rung on the never ending ladder and your surroundings will always pressure you to push and climb to the next rung. But you don't have to accept this ladder and can disconnect from it.

The pressure if artificial, the worst thing that can happen is you get fired in which case you find something else. It's ok, that doesn't seem that bad.

You have a steady paycheck which allows you to pay your rent and work on cool things. You lose that when you start a business. While you gain freedom and flexibility, you face the real pressures of making payroll and rent.

I'm around to chat more if you want. My whatapp in in my profile.