Setting Boundaries: Preventing Burnout & Boosting Wellbeing as an Indie Game Developer

Indie game development is a marathon, not a sprint. The passion that drives us can also lead to unsustainable work habits. Establishing clear boundaries is crucial for long-term success and personal wellbeing.

Define Your Work Hours

Treat your development schedule like a traditional job. Set specific start and end times for your workday.

Avoid blurring the lines between work and personal life, even when working from home.

Communicate these hours to collaborators and loved ones to manage expectations.

Create a Dedicated Workspace

Designate a specific area for game development. This physical separation helps mentally compartmentalize your work.

Avoid working from your bedroom or living room if possible, to prevent constant work reminders.

When you leave this space, you signal to your brain that the workday is over.

Prioritize Tasks and Manage Scope

Over-scoping is a primary driver of burnout. Learn to ruthlessly prioritize features.

Use a robust task tracker to visualize your workload and progress. Momentum is designed specifically for game developers to keep projects moving forward efficiently.

Focus on minimum viable product (MVP) features first, then iterate.

Schedule Regular Breaks and Downtime

Short, frequent breaks improve focus and reduce mental fatigue. Step away from your screen every hour.

Plan for longer breaks, like a full lunch away from your desk. Weekends should be for rest and recovery.

Resist the urge to ‘just finish one more thing’ during your designated off-time.