That's great until the economy changes and you have to start competing again.
I had a slack job for my mid career when I should have been busting my ass and positioning myself for my later career. I wasted tons of time and regret it. You may have ADHD. You may just be lacking self discipline. I don't know. You should get your shit together now when you have the option and not wait for life circumstances to demand it.
It's not about what you owe the company. It's about what you owe yourself.
> at work you just get more of the same level work as the level you are on
You get what you're given, but you can find work and go the extra mile. It's dependent on the job, sure. Some places might punish you for trying too hard. That hasn't been my experience as a SWE though.
> So you need to study/network outside of your job to get ahead.
I had a slack job for my mid career when I should have been busting my ass and positioning myself for my later career. I wasted tons of time and regret it. You may have ADHD. You may just be lacking self discipline. I don't know. You should get your shit together now when you have the option and not wait for life circumstances to demand it.
It's not about what you owe the company. It's about what you owe yourself.