Defending my own brain against enshittification

The author, a tech worker who previously worked at fast-paced startups, has transitioned to a hybrid role at a larger, more formal public company to combat loneliness and social alienation. This new position offers a stark cultural shift—featuring business casual dress codes, glass-walled offices, and structured routines—which the author finds welcoming despite missing some perks of startup life. The piece reflects on how this change has brought more intentionality and routine to daily life, from carefully steaming dress shirts to meditation-like commute mornings.