In the last decade, the tech industry has undergone significant transformations. I witnessed these changes firsthand during my time in Big Tech. After spending over ten years in the industry, I came to a life-changing decision: I quit. Here’s why.
A Dream Job That Became Something Else
When I first joined the tech industry, it was everything I had hoped for—dynamic, innovative, and fast-paced. The allure of cutting-edge projects, groundbreaking technology, and talented teams made it a dream job. Big Tech companies were seen as the pinnacle of innovation, constantly pushing boundaries.
But over the years, the landscape changed dramatically. As companies grew, so did their priorities, shifting from innovation to profit margins. I found myself watching my workplace transform from a hub of creativity into a bureaucratic machine focused more on stock prices and less on meaningful contributions to society.
The Shift Toward Profit-Driven Decisions
What was once an environment where we were encouraged to experiment and take risks, slowly shifted to one where short-term profits dominated decision-making. Innovation took a back seat as companies concentrated on staying competitive in a crowded market. Instead of creating new and meaningful products, many teams became focused on incremental updates or features that primarily served advertising or data collection purposes.
At first, I shrugged it off as part of the business model. But as the years went by, it became harder to ignore. The focus on user experience and long-term innovation had started to fade, and with it, my enthusiasm for the job.
The Rise of Automation and Job Saturation
One of the most significant changes I witnessed was the rise of automation. AI and machine learning technologies that we once built with excitement were now threatening to displace many jobs, even within tech itself. What was once a frontier of opportunity began to feel like a saturated space, with fewer groundbreaking advancements being made.
More concerning was the fact that many jobs in tech began to feel like they were being filled not by human creativity but by automated processes. It was a paradox: we were building machines to be creative, but in doing so, we were stifling our own creativity. I began to ask myself, “Is this really the future I want to be a part of?”
Burnout: A Constant Companion
Another undeniable factor was burnout. The high-pressure environment, constant need to stay ahead of the curve, and long hours took their toll. In the early days, this was manageable because the work felt meaningful. But as the purpose behind the work diminished, the burnout became harder to justify.
Despite the perks—high salaries, fancy offices, and endless snacks—I found myself feeling increasingly disconnected from the work I was doing. The passion that once fueled me had diminished. I realized that I wasn’t alone in this. Many of my colleagues expressed similar frustrations, quietly questioning their future in the industry.
Making a Bigger Impact Elsewhere
It was during this period of reflection that I started considering alternatives. I knew I had valuable skills and experience but realized I could make a bigger impact in other sectors.
I explored opportunities in education, non-profits, and even small startups. What I found was a wealth of opportunities where my skills could be put to use in ways that felt more meaningful. Smaller companies were more agile, and the work was often driven by a real purpose, not just profit margins. The education sector offered the chance to train the next generation of tech talent, shaping the future in a way that felt more aligned with my values.
The Courage to Leave
Leaving Big Tech wasn’t an easy decision. It meant walking away from the financial security, prestige, and familiarity of an industry I had been a part of for so long. But the thought of staying in a job that no longer fulfilled me was far more daunting.
Taking the leap required me to let go of the identity I had built over the last decade. But I knew it was time for a change. My experience in Big Tech had given me valuable lessons, but it was no longer the place where I felt I could make the kind of impact I wanted to in the world.
The New Chapter: Purpose Over Profit
Today, I find myself in a much different space. I work for a company that is smaller, but where the focus is on solving real-world problems. The work is challenging, but I am finally able to see the direct impact of my contributions.
I’ve also taken up mentoring young professionals, helping them navigate their way into the tech industry. This has given me a renewed sense of purpose, as I can now guide others to pursue meaningful work without losing themselves in the process.
Leaving Big Tech wasn’t just about escaping burnout or corporate politics—it was about finding a space where I could truly make a difference.
Final Thoughts
Big Tech offers a world of opportunities, but it’s not for everyone—especially as the industry evolves. For me, the choice to leave was about prioritizing personal fulfillment over financial gain or prestige. I’ve come to realize that making an impact isn’t about working for the biggest company, but about working on the problems that matter most to you.
If you’re in a similar situation, take a step back and evaluate what you really want out of your career. Sometimes, the most rewarding path is the one you least expect.
