America Is Headed Toward the Infinite Workweek

TL;DR

Developers are experiencing nap attacks and exhaustion due to the constant oversight required for AI agents, despite theoretical productivity gains.
AI agents, like toddlers, require detailed instructions and supervision, leading to an 'AI babysitter' role for human workers.
A survey found many workers experience 'mental fatigue' from excessive AI tool use, with symptoms including 'buzzing,' 'fog'-like feelings, headaches, and difficulty focusing.
Managing multiple AI bots simultaneously is compared to having numerous browser tabs open in one's head, demanding constant attention.
The variable rewards from AI agents can hack dopamine circuits, leading to compulsive checking and rotation among different agents, similar to gambling.
The rise of 'AI babysitting' indicates a shift in jobs, where work may look different rather than leading to a complete 'white-collar apocalypse,' potentially resembling preindustrial or factory-floor work dynamics.
Companies are pushing AI adoption, sometimes leading workers to automate unnecessary tasks to prove usage, exacerbating the fatigue.

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