Why is there this trend going on? Is it because we have too much supply and a lot of movement such as XYZ in Tech?
I have never seen a manager writing code at any company except one startup. That manager was also more like a tech lead. He hated writing emails, forget documentation. He never promoted anyone or never got along with anyone.

I see manager's job is to bring out the best of their reportees. They need to understand system design and tradeoffs. But, writing code? They need to shield the team from politics. They need to have a vision and grow the team.

I don't understand current trends that everyone must leetcode. I am TPM and have written code before. I just don't get time for writing code when working with a team of 30-40 people. I haven't seen a single SDM at amazon who write code. There could be some exceptions.

There are not enough hours in the day to work for 9-10 hours daily while spending 12 hours a day total when commute is included. I am too tired on weekends to do anything. I have teams in India which makes it super difficult to do anything in weekdays.

I sincerely want to become a good engineering manager and lead/grow a team.
How can I do it if leetcode is the bar and I don't have any time to practice?

If you are or were in a similar situation please suggest how did you get out?