When people claim they work „less then 8 hours“, they typically found a perfect spot for them where their work is engaging, but also comfortable. They are able to do the work, get challenged enough but are not over-their-head.

I had jobs where I worked 10 hours a day, often on my own will since I wanted to figure something out. Most often than not, I was skills missing for the position I had so I did more work.

I had jobs where I worked 15-20 hours a week, and was praised and earned a lot of money.

So if you are good at something, like really good, and you join a company lacking these skills, than you probably don‘t have to work as hard since you already make a difference just by being there.

You choose your company and the amount you want to work as a developer these times. It‘s up to you. Some people however overwork themselves with 60+ hours and earn less than people who work 20 in a different industry but better pay.

I am currently in a position where I grow a family, and I found a well paying hjob where some weeks I work 50 hours, but most weeks I work 30. I get enough done to be a good performer. And that‘s enough for me at the moment.

Which means, my skills perfectly fit the position I am in, and for once I don‘t try to overdo it but just do a decent enough job to get a bit of praise. I use the down time to relax, watch movies, play with my kids etc.