Early on when I started playing SOM online, I ended up to three teams going. My teams were in three different flavors (69, 70s, 2006) which was good, but it was still just a bit too much. So, I have generally tried to keep it to two teams at once. And if nothing else, I limited myself to one 70s team at a time since you need to stay so active even after the season begins with that format.
Life was good. I was hooked. But eventually I wanted to try a $60 million format in the 70s even though I had a team already going. And then this single season format for the 70s looked really fun. And there was this great group of managers I just got done playing a season with, and they were starting a new season. And I also wanted to start a 70s keeper league.
One team's season ended but I still ended up with four 70s teams and one 2006 team. Some managers, I'm sure, handle even more, but for me it was way too many. Soon, I was rapidly heading for total burnout.
At one point, I wanted to drop out of my own keeper league. (Fortunately, one of the veteran managers in the league talked some sense into me.)
Leagues don't last forever, and I didn't join any news ones. So, eventually I ended up with no teams at all. I went a full week without any games.
This story has a happy ending. I tried my first 2008 season team, and the old magic returned. This occurred despite my team having the most horrific start of any team I have ever coached. My 70s keeper league is getting ready for season 2. And that's where I draw the line. I really want to get a third season going in the $60 million 70s format, but I know two teams is best for me--and only one 70s team at a time.
For me, what makes it so easy to get in too deep is I absolutely love forming a new team and the excitement of the preseason. I spend many hours tweaking each team before the season starts. By the time I get to the playoffs (if I'm lucky enough to make it), it's almost anticlimactic.
So, "kids," know your limit and stick to it! We want you to stick around for awhile.
Coyote