How much do I need to do as a Tech Lead?
Who is running who? You, your calendar, or the other way around?
“How much do I need to do as a Tech Lead? My calendar is full.”,
somebody asked me this recently.
The question says a lot.
It shows you are in reactive mode, pulled into everything without clarity about what is yours to do and what is not.
And here’s the truth: there is no single answer.
The Tech Lead role is not standardised.
No playbook will tell you exactly what to attend, which tasks to own, or where to step back.
That is both the challenge and the opportunity.
If your calendar feels like it is running you, you are missing something essential: boundaries.
You do not need to be in every meeting.
You do not need to say yes to every request.
You do not need to prove your value by being exhausted.
Because let’s call it out:
“If I am not exhausted, I am not working hard enough” is not ambition. That is neglect.
I recommend reading this short piece for a perspective that hits deep: Burnout is not ambition. It’s self-neglect.
What you can do is:
Get clear on your responsibilities.
Learn where to say no.
Take charge of your calendar so it reflects your priorities, not everyone else’s.
This is the work of leadership.
If you need support with this and you are ready to be contributed to, I invite you to join my workshop:
Escape the Tech Lead Overload
In 2.5 hours you will learn how to juggle lots of requests, set boundaries that protect your time and energy, and own your schedule so you can reduce overwhelm and enjoy your work again.
Upcoming session: 15th October 2025.
Join the workshop here.
I believe in you.
Andra