Your Happiness Comes First

We wrap up the discussion on working in Big Tech and end with an important philosophical reminder about career and life priorities.

• Happiness > Hype: At the end of the day, it's not worth it if you're not happy. Your career is a means to a fulfilling life—not the purpose of your life. Prioritize what genuinely brings you joy and purpose.
• Software Has Many Paths: There isn’t just one archetype of success in tech. Whether you're a master debugger, a product-savvy tech lead, or a great communicator, there’s a path that fits your strengths and passions.
• Find Work That Feels Effortless: If there’s something you enjoy doing so much that it doesn’t feel like work—chase that. Use it as a compass for your long-term career direction.
• Ignore Peer Pressure: Just because working at Big Tech is glorified doesn’t mean it’s the best choice for everyone. Many engineers thrive and find faster growth at smaller startups or hyper-growth companies.
• Be True to Yourself: Use the information provided as tools—not mandates. The goal is to make informed, authentic decisions based on your own values, priorities, and vision for your life and career.

The main idea is to reflect intentionally, embrace your individuality, and chart a career path that aligns with your unique definition of success.