Which job is harder – physical or mental?

Diskussion

Do you think which job is "harder" for the same salary (e.g. 10,000 per month): mental (e.g. working in IT as a programmer) or physical (e.g. working in a warehouse in Germany / the Netherlands)?

Because I honestly think that mental work is more overwhelming, as we are often under more time pressure and have a LITTLE bit more pressure on our heads all the time: thinking, planning, stress, more responsibility. Besides, even after work, it's hard to 'switch off', as thoughts continue to revolve around projects and the pressure to 'stay on track'.

In physical work, on the other hand, we simply switch off for a certain period of time, returning home usually after 8 hours, with a clear head, not thinking about anything, having time for the so-called relaxation / tranquillity / peace.

I just think that the physical aspect is less "overwhelming" (if you can call it that) than the mental aspect.

In a physical job - for example in a warehouse in Germany or the Netherlands - you do your job, finish your shift and go home. Fatigue is there, you know, but mentally a person is often at peace.

I say this from the perspective of someone who has worked in both jobs and experienced both cases.

What do you guys think? 

Posted Sep 5, 2025, 10:04 AM UTC

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