What’s the size of your team?

Just me on a current contract with a startup

Ah, if it’s a contract position you def have less leverage. Many see contract designers as just that pixel pushers. You could try to evangelize UX but I’m not sure if it is worth it for a contract position.

Yea - As another side. Don’t waste the energy, focus it on something else creative. Get my check and call it a day. I’m just an invested passionate individual. So just kind of a mood killer. Kind of like a kid that just got socks for Christmas.

while I empathize with you (and have 100% fallen into this myself) sometimes work is just work. Cash your check and clock out. Save your brain for the fun stuff.