A 28-year-old IIT graduate and seasoned software engineer, earning a hefty 70 LPA, recently opened up on Reddit about a dilemma many high-earning tech professionals silently face: the trade-off between money and mental well-being. Despite impressive career growth, multiple job switches, and a promotion, he’s been battling impostor syndrome and anxiety, especially after quitting a high-paying startup role after just five months. Now, with a young baby at home, he’s seriously weighing a switch to a government job for stability, even at the cost of a huge pay cut, while also considering the possibility of further upskilling in AI/ML or exploring new ventures.
The techie explained that the rapid pace of the AI boom and industry changes makes him feel increasingly out of place, questioning long-term sustainability in tech. He’s drawn to the calmer lifestyle of his younger brother, a medical officer, and is contemplating SSC CGL or State PSC exams as a starting point, with UPSC possibly later. Balancing being the sole earner with personal mental health challenges has him wondering if a career pivot might ultimately be worth it.
Internet reacts
Internet users weighed in with practical advice and caution. Many suggested exploring MNC roles with better work-life balance rather than making a drastic switch to government jobs, emphasising that high anxiety shouldn’t be solved by immediately leaving a well-paying role. Several noted that the pay cut in government positions would be substantial, sometimes bringing in-hand salaries below one lakh, and that UPSC preparation carries its own risks, especially considering age limits. Others recommended addressing the root causes of impostor syndrome and anxiety through therapy, better lifestyle habits, and meditation, before making major career decisions. Some also highlighted that the techie could continue learning AI/ML or side projects while finding a less stressful tech company to stabilize both income and mental health.
The techie explained that the rapid pace of the AI boom and industry changes makes him feel increasingly out of place, questioning long-term sustainability in tech. He’s drawn to the calmer lifestyle of his younger brother, a medical officer, and is contemplating SSC CGL or State PSC exams as a starting point, with UPSC possibly later. Balancing being the sole earner with personal mental health challenges has him wondering if a career pivot might ultimately be worth it.
Internet reacts
Internet users weighed in with practical advice and caution. Many suggested exploring MNC roles with better work-life balance rather than making a drastic switch to government jobs, emphasising that high anxiety shouldn’t be solved by immediately leaving a well-paying role. Several noted that the pay cut in government positions would be substantial, sometimes bringing in-hand salaries below one lakh, and that UPSC preparation carries its own risks, especially considering age limits. Others recommended addressing the root causes of impostor syndrome and anxiety through therapy, better lifestyle habits, and meditation, before making major career decisions. Some also highlighted that the techie could continue learning AI/ML or side projects while finding a less stressful tech company to stabilize both income and mental health.
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