22 Comments

Spectacular ending, Tobi. I am almost there with my decision. This helped!

Expand full comment

Tobi, this is fantastic! Hope you're doing well these days and in the months since you wrote this.

I've considered this many times myself and I think this is the sort of thing many people feel and think about but don't know how to express, don't know who to talk to about it, and don't know if/how they can make it happen.

"My light would be too dimmed, outlook too pessimistic and aura too muted, and to what end?"

The idea of never finding out what your aura could be is so haunting. Hope your light is shining brightly now.

Excited to read more from you!

Expand full comment

Good work on quitting! The way you take us through it in this writing gives me goosebumps.

It's been 10 years now since I left Silicon Valley. Far less money in my bank account, but each day feels far more valuable, if that makes sense. Never once regretted that move.

Keep it up, friend!

Expand full comment

Nice Tobi! I’m glad you chose happiness. That’s always the right choice :-) Wishing you the best!!

Expand full comment

"What’s the point of flying first class on a crashing plane?"

Wow! What a great metaphor. I related to so much of your story Tobi. In tech in particular, the allure of the next big paycheck, bonus, payoff that's just a few months down the line. I remember saying to a coworker once, "there is always going to be another bonus to stay for".

Good luck on your sabbatical! My own really helped me do some self reflection and now a couple years out of corporate, I can see how much happier and more fulfilled I am in my life. It's a journey, but I think a worthwhile one!

Expand full comment

I have to admit, I'm a bit shaken by what I just read. It felt like my inner voice talking to me. There is probably a higher percentage of people than we think out there facing the same dilemma.

Thanks for sharing.

Expand full comment
Dec 7, 2022Liked by Tobi Ogunnaike

I always enjoy reading what you have to say. Thanks for the insights and hope you're vibing!

Expand full comment

I've seen myself do some of the same things, reassuring to hear that I'm not alone! I'll have some updates of my own to share soon enough :)

Expand full comment