Before people start daydreaming about early retirement, or giving up your day job to chase your dreams, I want to remind y'all that this man received millions in AMZN stock over the past 18 years. He is chasing his dreams safely, with almost nothing to lose, since he is happily and securely retired. Just putting things in perspective for the general population
Thanks for clarifying I was about to say this when I saw yr message. Good one otherwise a lot will be misinterpreted and misinformed to quit a job without any additional safety net of other incomes sources before thinking to pursue interests?
As someone who was just diagnosed with cancer that will probably kill him with the next few years, I used to work as a web developer....one of my biggest regrets is not taking more vacation time for myself. The last 3 years I didn't take a single day off. Now that I cannot physically travel, it is a big regret.
You may or may not believe. Jesus loved you! He is still healer and desires you well! Matt 19:26 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
Man I'm so sorry to hear that. I don't know if it makes sense but even though you acquired quite a unique perspective due to your diagnosis, hopefully you can appreciate time more times better than before, and even better than most of us, I'm sorry if it sounds rude, Idk if I got my idea right, but I'll send you my best best wishes and warmest hug
I quit after 16 years. Also 41yo, 2 kids, young. You won't believe how much this video resonates with me. I'm in tears, brother. It's comforting to know someone out there feels exactly how I feel.
Let's be realistic - none of the reasons you said represents the main reason. You did that because you can afford to do it. When you started 17 years ago the Amazon RSU was 3$? Now it is 170$? Congrats but you are one of many guys who kid of say between the lines - follow your passion which is bs and even narcissistic to some extent. The truth is once one is affluent enough then can start talking this stuff. 98% of IT people in this world will not volunteerly retire from well paid job. As well as 99.9% of the entire population. I recommend YT video - Scott Galloway - Why Following Passion is only for the rich. You mislead many young people without explaining everything.
I like hearing your life updates. Humble, carefully crafted, honest. And as a fellow Amazonian, dad, and UA-camr, it’s nice and inspiring to hear someone else’s story who’s been through more.
I have to say I am so glad I found your content a year or so ago, my career has really changed and I already aligned with a lot of your values so validation of those values really meant a lot to me. I am extremely excited about the future of you, and this content. And as a dad I completely understand, I am a decade younger than you, but the statement "I only have 2000 weeks left." really hit home. Thank you.
Being a dad is such a blessing. I’m a dad as well, starting my career as a software engineer, and my hobby is my bmw e30 restoration. I will definitely follow along and join your cohort once available. Sometimes at work I feel stuck, but change that attitude to grateful. Drop down I know there’s more for my career. Accepting change is one of the biggest challenges.
Congratulation on your Second child! It's really a blessing! Also big thank you showing venerable side of you as well and what you are going through not just a Rockstar which you are being always perceived. After all, we are all human, we learn, we grow and we adapt and we change.
I'm so excited for this new Chapter - and all the people you are going to help get to the next level (and the one after that). Also, my husband also has a baby tooth - it's so rare!
I got hired as an SDE 2 by Amazon at age 46. I thought they made a colossal error, but I did in fact get selected by a great team. I left NYC for Seattle, it happened so fast and was exciting to be in a young city working with young people. Unfortunately I couldn’t handle the career management and had a terrible series of managers. I only lasted 2 years and moved back to NYC mildly broken when it ended. But I wouldn’t trade it for anything, the best shakeup I could have asked for. I still remember everything about it and still write multiple teammates, they were the best. Life has many chapters, they end up feeling like dreams. I swear my experience with Seattle and Amazon feels like it was only a dream, like a trip to Oz (Seattle is the emerald city). It’s now 4 years since I moved back, and I now have wild dreams about Seattle. It’s all kinda Twin Peaks now in my head!
This is great! I first found you 2 years ago during a long job search and I remember wishing you had more content for me. That search landed me in a job twice as lucrative and 1/10th as stressful. Since then your content has me laid back and feeling like I can go confidently into the future no matter what happens. I'm not worried for your content at all - you're already great at expectation management.
You're a rockstar! Can't wait to see what's next! I would love to see specific and tactical content on becoming a world-class software engineer. There is no shortage of 0 to 1 and 1 to 2. For me, its less about getting promoted and more about how to just be a beast that can move mountains.
I've been following you since your meta days. I'm a knowledge worker, but not a programmer, and i have benefitted a ton from some of your advice. In particular, the suggestions to go read Cal Newports stuff, and your thoughts on how to focus on eliminating distractions and productivity were a huge help in getting me promoted. Looking forward to hearing more about the new chapter, and we love you in braces.
Congratulations! I always come back to your video about preparing for tech interviews. Although I'm not currently looking for a new role, the ideas I got from there helped me grow in my current role (senior engineer). I keep sending this video to anyone I know who's preparing for an interview. Best of luck on your next projects!
Congrats on the new changes. We'll all be still here to support. Also hopefully you don't think about the braces too much :) I'm doing my second round of it after doing it once as a kid and not turning out so great. Just another baby step to a greater day. Keep at it and looking forward to the new stuff.
You are on of the only 2-3 tech "influencers" I follow because you live in the real world and I haven't seen anything that indicates you are moving to Bali to start a "mastermind". I hope to move out to the PNW with my girlfriend once we finish our masters programs. She is doing MIS and I am doing Comp Sci Cyber Security concentration. Your content is just so pure and relattable. You are actually pursuing/living the dream not just talking about spending your healthy salary friviously. I appreciate what you bring to this space and I cannot wait to see what you put out next.
This was by far and wide the best way to ask for a "like and subscribe". I watch many of your videos and just realized I wasn't subscribed, yet how you asked forced me to look and make sure. Well done! P.S. - I have an amazon SDE interview soon, wish me luck
Congratulations for the new member and wishing you all the best for your future endeavors…!!! You content has always been genuine and dymond quality since inception of this channel..!!! Looking forward for the full bloom…!!!
Congratulations!🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉 Really happy for you. Been a huge fan of your content cos its not clickbait-ey. It stands the test of time and provides actionable insights. All the best in this next (though far from new) life, can't wait to see what you have in store for us
Glad to hear you are retiring early and hope you make videos of what it’s like! One book I’ve recently read is Die with Zero, which is a thought provoking book encouraging of early retirement.
Meta-original-watcher here. You will never regret more time with the kids, even if you fail miserably at UA-cam (which you won't either, but to illustrate the point). I don't regret a single time leaving the work behind when my toddler says "Daddy, can you play with me?" They're only little once. Make the most of it.
Your video crossed my page and I’ve never seen your channel before… but I personally thank you for posting this! I’ve been trying to focus on goals and content that I’d love to make but like you, I’ve been struggling to balance feeling free enough to post my content and work a 9-5 as well. I’ll definitely support your growth! Keep going 🎉
It hit me so hard that your company won't attend your funeral! Also, the only person who will remember you working on the weekends are your kids! I wish you all the best! Really excited to see your upcoming journey!
I love the way you speak, it makes me come back to your channel a few times a week. Clear and easy to digest. You deserve this next chapter in your life. Excited for this next adventure of yours!
Before you, my best youtuber resource is Techlead, I can safely say this is an upgrade, I watched all of your content always wishing you can push out more, now my wish is granted haha. Congrats for your 2nd life, and thanks in advance for the advice you will deliver to us to help with our 1st life.
Wow! Can't believe it! Congratulations, Steve. Also, believe it or not I have a fake tooth in right now too (one of the front ones). Such a pain in the ass but hope to get it solved soon too
I've an overbite too, wow thanks it's quite encouraging to see you talk about it and actually do the tough task of braces on! Super proud of you, and best wishes in future.
I say the same thing that your company won't be at your bedside when you die!! Your family will! They grow so fast so savor each seconds! Mine will be 7y next month and my daughter is 5y.
Congratulations on the bold step. I would appreciate if you can share more about how you balance life needs (e.g. Health Insurance; passive income (balancing dividend/short term interest focused investing etc).
Godspeed. Binging your videos helped me navigate big tech and career in general. Also looking at getting major orthodontics soon to fix an underbite too so i feel you on that journey. Side note: great watch the batgirl is epic
Congratulations! I can see a happy and fulfilled life ahead of you. Congratulations also on the second bundle of joy. What an awesome time of your life.
Thank you Steve !! Your videos helped me a lot last year to bring mentorship and leadership to my team. Last year I resigned and started a company that aims to create a collaborative environment for artists, coders and learners to meet together and create in a 3D environment. Your content definetely helped me to make the decision of stepping down from the Technical Director role and moving forward with what I want to do in my life - bring as much value as possible to the people. Happy to see that you are going to do the same !
Your content is truly awesome Uncle Steve, I am a Brazilian that has always watched your content. I think it has been some months now. I generally watch when I am waiting for a PR review. You helped me become a better developer, after watching your videos I started paying more attention to the business side of things and to track impact instead of faster and better code all the time. I understand perfectly were you are at, I just married (3 months ago) and I am super happy that I am going to be a father. Wish you the best, will continue following you up close! Thanks for the amazing content!
Good luck with your next chapter, man! As a father of two little boys, I can tell you time flies so fast. Embrace every moment you get to spend with them and spend as much time as possible together. Everything else is just dust in the wind.
Thanks for what you do uncle steve! I am more than grateful that I found your channel, applied your advice into my life and get the promotion I always wanted! You are a superhero for me :)
Best of Luck in your new venture! My son, a recent college grad, just started at Amazon as a programmer. He introduced your channel to me and I love it.
Left after 7 years, a switch just flipped in me and when my manager and I were discussing new projects to work on, I just said I don't like any of these I'm out. it was scary, but eventually I sort of regret not leaving sooner. Like you, I was starting to have the same year over again and not grow.
Wish you all the best, Steve! Sad to hear you are leaving Amazon, but I'm sure you will make a much larger impact with greater content, empowering millions of software professionals. I got to know you during my Amazon interview 10 years back, as one of the interviewers. You were such an inspirational SDE, and I became a dedicated follower of your content when you started sharing your Amazon experience on social media. Thanks, Steve! Cheers to many more years of success! (Charitha, fellow amazonian :) )
Stumbled across your channel ~a year ago and have been trying to maintain the "brag document" ever since I saw it in one of your videos. Keep up the great work and wishing you lots of success at home and outside!
I started following you around a week ago because I heard you give great advice as a L7 engineer from Amazon, and now you left. Great stuff. Happy for you!
Best of luck, my friend. I'll keep you in my prayers as you embark on this new season. Your words really hit home for me, aligning with the phase I'm currently experiencing. You had the courage to take a step out of your comfort zone and follow your passion, that is commendable. Recently, I came across a saying: "The only place where you are not replaceable is at home." Facing a second layoff in my career as a software engineer, this quote has been on my mind constantly. Just last week, I worked from 6:30 AM until 11:00 PM for consecutive days, then my 3-year-old took my hand and told me she missed me. Finding a job (a calling) that aligns with your family, and your passion, and that you can make enough to pay the bills is undoubtedly a blessing. I hope to see more of your content dude.
I've quite appreciated your videos. As a father of two your story really hits home. I wish you stability and the time to make some good memories with your family. I look forward to your next videos.
Good luck with all the life changes! As a new dad myself I totally understand where you are coming from. Look forward to all the great content you will create in the coming year
I am really inspired by you, Steve. I admire the path you took: Start something on the side and when you quit, put all your energy into it. When I joined Amazon, I read mtlynch's posts on quitting Google. I was clear I didn't want to work full-time employed until retirement. But at the same time, I found myself learning and growing so much that I like the job. So I decided the best way to live life is by stages. Every 7 to 10 years making a big change. Kind of like a decade change. My 20s are for working in big tech and growing. My 30s I will see. Doing it in this order helps with financial security. Best of luck mate. The best is in front of you. Fran.
As a fellow Asia millennial and former Amazonian, I applaud you for taking this huge step. I feel this is particularly difficult step for us millennials (especially Asians) to take because we've been taught since childhood the opposite, so knowing when to leave the corporate life is not just a financial decision to make but also a mental block to remove. Because of that, congrats!
You’re living the dream. I’m 28 right now and I have major depression. I have a good job, but man I’m so scared of the future. Looking at your journey gives me a lot of hope. Best wishes to your family!
Congratulations! This must have been such a tough decision for you. Your values and perspective on life really resonate with me. I wish you all the best and will be following your content closely. Keep at it brother 💪
You are definitly making the right decision, your kids and future you will thank you for it! Completely anecdotal, but I've heard stores from someone who works at a nursing home, and there seems to be a pattern of elderly people always regretting not spending enough time with their kid(s)/family, and not working hard enough to mend their marriage when things got tough. They also have a lot of specific personal regrets, but it's always when they talk about the memories they made with their family and friends that their eyes light up.
Congrats man! I am 41 myself and totally understand what you say. It is impressive to me how someone can stay for that many years in Amazon. I stayed there for 5 years and that was way too much for me. You could have gotten several pay raises by switching companies earlier, but hey... It is never too late.
Thank you for the transparency and reminding me that I'm now on the down slope, currently 45 and have been in tech since 99. I wish you all the best, and like you I enjoy helping people succeed more than the next big thing.
I'm struggling because of exactly that quote. I refuse to give my nights and weekends to companies, now that I am raising kids, unless it's truly necessary. My mental and physical energy after work is for kids, family, friends (on the rare occasion). I don't want to spend that energy brushing up on interview prep and leetcode. I dread interviewing anywhere else because I'm not a kid with no experience. I've years of experience, and the last thing I want to do as a 35 year old with three kids all under the age of 5 is go practice leetcode questions.
Although I’m not in software, your content generally does help people propel forward in their career and the advices are very applicable in other fields! As a Viet, I have a rule to call people who are 18 yrs older or more uncle or auntie, but now knowing you’re only a full lunar zodiac cycle older than me…Thank you anh! Good luck on this next chapter!🎉
I'm in similar shoes and totally can relate. I know you'll make it and I appreciate for your content and update which makes it genuine and very relatable.
Thanks for your video series and contributing, sharing your knowledge to help others. I am just coming around to watch this video and gave it a like to support. Best of luck in your new endeavors.
The video discusses the speaker's decision to leave their job at Amazon after working there for 18 years. They explain that they have two young children and are not getting enough sleep, which has affected their work and personal life. They also mention that they have been feeling middle-aged and want to focus on creating free content and helping others level up in their careers. The speaker acknowledges the risks of leaving a stable job but believes it's the right move for them. They encourage viewers to support their content and consider joining their program, Speedrun to Promotion, to help others get promoted faster.
Congrats Steve! I totally get the time freedom aspect, which I'd take it a step further to say that even if you do have time, after having full days of meetings and work, the mental exhaustion after is real. Can't wait to see where this journey takes you!
A couple of years ago my team celebrated one's 50th birthday. We asked what advice he will give to young people like us. His answer was to have all your kids before 40. I understand now why he said that. I'm happy for you and your next adventure! Good luck in everything, whatever you're planning to do.
Congratulations! I'm a fan of all your videos so I'm here for the life updates as well as the career advice. I was at Amazon from 2007 to 2011, and it changed my life. I learned more from my time at Amazon than my graduate degree from Harvard. I can't fathom how much you've learned from spending nearly 20 years in such a talent rich environment. I wish you huge amounts of success on your next chapter.
@@skyhappy Definitely not. If I hadn't gone to Harvard, I wouldn't have been equipped to work at Amazon nor would I have been able to keep up with the pace. I had always been a big fish in a small pond before Harvard, and it's easy to standout in small schools or at startups where I can be the smartest person in the room. One of my biggest lessons was to listen and learn from others. At my previous jobs, I could just spend more time and get the win. Both Amazon and Harvard really taught me the importance on knowing my strengths and trusting my peers to deliver.
Congrats on baby #2 🎉. We’ll support you. Your content, experience, and charm is unique and much needed on the Internet. Thank you so so much for everything. I follow you everywhere, from your UA-cam, to discord to LinkedIn. The reason I haven’t used Patreon is because I don’t need it currently. I am in big tech myself as a SWE. If there’s anything I can to help beyond my following, I will be happy to contribute to these amazing things you’re preparing!!!
Congratulations on making such a big chance. I too had problems with my teeth until I decided to finally make a big change and while the process wasn't fun the outcome was life changing for me. I'm so happy for you and wish you nothing but the best!
I went with invisalign to avoid all the things you were saying about traditional braces, and the big plus is that when I take my braces off I can eat whatever I want!
All the best to you in the future. We have a 2 year old and 6 month old here as well. I know this content route will work out. On the sleep side, for both our babies, we isolated a parent to a soundproof area while the other stayed with the kid(s), and did shifts. This helped our sleep tremendously. It wasn't as good for our marriage but it was temporary and we were in alignment that we would work hard to properly reconnect after the babies started to sleep well. It was oh so sweet to sleep in the same bed again when our first started sleeping with minimal wakeups in the night :)
I noticed the braces briefly and then immediately didn't notice them any more, you look and sound just fine to me! Your advice and guidance is as valuable as ever, and I greatly appreciate it (and I promise, the braces are much more noticeable in your mind than anyone else's!)
Thanks for the update. As a dad as well I heard of that saying about kids remembering your overtimes. My kids are bigger, and I guess I did pick being there for them even when do crazy hours when I was young. I did ask my kids about a few months ago if ever felt I wasn’t there. Gladly they remember me being there for most of the time, they know I also worked long hours but never felt I wasn’t there for them. However I guess there is also some aspect of me feeling not being able to do my full potential in my career, as I made my priorities to be my wife and kids. That said with your humble life update I guess I don’t feel too bad knowing that qualify family time is worth pursuing.
You'll make it work brother, I wish you good luck on your new endeavors, you have helped me so much, I'm sure you'll make it through whatever you decide to do!
That's amazing and really inspiring to see you leave a cushy high paying job to pursue your love of teaching, helping others and fulfillment. Growth really starts outside your comfort zone!
Awesome. The title got me, but the content made me watch the whole thing. Good for you bud. We never worked together at Amazon but after seeing this - I wish we had collaborated on something.
11 місяців тому
I learned about you two years ago. I love your advice and dedicated work. You're articulate in every sentence. Hope everything will be good for your family. Thank you for sharing with us!!!
I hardly post comments on youtube, but i had to here. This is a huge step and it takes lots of guts. I love your content, cant wait to see what more you have in store. Best of luck and I'll try to support this channel as much as possible.
Congrats. You have climbed one mountain, and have found another one. I love to see people succeed. Even though I'm not an Engineer, I found your content to be pretty useful as a product manager in tech. Not only was it personally helpful, but it also let me know what my engineering teams needed from me to be successful. I think you have a lot more value to add other than just engineers. You've got so much experience, and you're ready to soar. Don't limit yourself to just one group of people for too long.
this is so inspiring, steve - genuinely can't wait to see what you do next. only have respect and admiration for you. your videos have been honest, useful and a true breath of fresh air for a young engineer like myself.
You are a stand up dude. With an attitude like that, no way you can fail. I admire you young man - who thinks he's old!! I look forward to continuing watching you grow and flourish, while I steal more of your advice!
All the power to you. You've taught a lot and will continue to do so. It's a great step to be looking out for one's family and not just the next bag. Thanks again.
I don't think I can ever work for another company again especially long term . I was aging in dog years just returning to corporate america for 10 months. Congrats.
Just found your channel today. Appreciate the honesty. Being a somewhat new father myself, I can definitely relate to being time poor. Congratulations on your new journey. I wish you and yours the best!
Congrats and best of luck Steve 🎉🎉, your content was so helpful and vital for me to land a position at a FAANG company. I look forward to enjoying and learning more from your experiences this year as we all sail through the sea of the IT industry. Muchas Felicidades!
Great content, I can totally relate to not having the emotional/mental bandwidth do deal with anything else than whatever is already you are currently dealing with. People do not need to know why your answer is going to be NO. Setting boundaries and going all out to do your own thing is an important life skill.
As a father of a slightly older child, I can tell you it gets easier. They grow up, plus you get accustomed to your new schedule. And on the backend after a few years, they'll bring ever more joy to us and we get back some free time.
Hey man best wishes for the next chapter! I hope to be as brave as you soon as I will also be turning 41 this year and have tons of other goals that are really in no way related to my full time gig.
As a fellow techie, good for you. I'm also middle aged, and time with your family is important. Having the benefit of working at Amazon for 18 years and accruing a mass amount of equity is a blessing, and I hope you find success on your own. In the end, the greatest freedom is to support your livelihood on your own. Working for someone else isn't great, even when the money is good. But making tons of money being employed by someone else is surely one of the better lesser evils :) anyways... Best wishes on your new chapter!
Before people start daydreaming about early retirement, or giving up your day job to chase your dreams, I want to remind y'all that this man received millions in AMZN stock over the past 18 years. He is chasing his dreams safely, with almost nothing to lose, since he is happily and securely retired. Just putting things in perspective for the general population
Thanks for clarifying I was about to say this when I saw yr message. Good one otherwise a lot will be misinterpreted and misinformed to quit a job without any additional safety net of other incomes sources before thinking to pursue interests?
there no need to be safe, just be free embrace your productive passion and avoid being a boring person.
As someone who was just diagnosed with cancer that will probably kill him with the next few years, I used to work as a web developer....one of my biggest regrets is not taking more vacation time for myself. The last 3 years I didn't take a single day off. Now that I cannot physically travel, it is a big regret.
sorry to hear this. all the strength to you
May God be with you my friend.
You may or may not believe. Jesus loved you! He is still healer and desires you well!
Matt 19:26 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
Man I'm so sorry to hear that. I don't know if it makes sense but even though you acquired quite a unique perspective due to your diagnosis, hopefully you can appreciate time more times better than before, and even better than most of us, I'm sorry if it sounds rude, Idk if I got my idea right, but I'll send you my best best wishes and warmest hug
Don’t give up, fight it all the way! I am healthy again, but this year is my survivor year nine.
I quit after 16 years. Also 41yo, 2 kids, young. You won't believe how much this video resonates with me. I'm in tears, brother. It's comforting to know someone out there feels exactly how I feel.
Congratulations! That's huge :) can't wait to see what else you do next
How have I seen you on swimming and now tech videos as well...
@@bju1why not ?
Let's be realistic - none of the reasons you said represents the main reason. You did that because you can afford to do it. When you started 17 years ago the Amazon RSU was 3$? Now it is 170$? Congrats but you are one of many guys who kid of say between the lines - follow your passion which is bs and even narcissistic to some extent. The truth is once one is affluent enough then can start talking this stuff. 98% of IT people in this world will not volunteerly retire from well paid job. As well as 99.9% of the entire population. I recommend YT video - Scott Galloway - Why Following Passion is only for the rich. You mislead many young people without explaining everything.
The quote about only your kids remembering you worked nights and weekends hit hard. Great video, thanks for the life update, I think these are great!
I like hearing your life updates. Humble, carefully crafted, honest. And as a fellow Amazonian, dad, and UA-camr, it’s nice and inspiring to hear someone else’s story who’s been through more.
I have to say I am so glad I found your content a year or so ago, my career has really changed and I already aligned with a lot of your values so validation of those values really meant a lot to me. I am extremely excited about the future of you, and this content. And as a dad I completely understand, I am a decade younger than you, but the statement "I only have 2000 weeks left." really hit home. Thank you.
Staying out of slave jobs is how these days😢
@@pinkifloyd7867 he was making a 1m a year, it wasn't a slave job lol.
@@pinkifloyd7867remember, he’s an engineer♥️♥️♥️ slave job???
Being a dad is such a blessing. I’m a dad as well, starting my career as a software engineer, and my hobby is my bmw e30 restoration. I will definitely follow along and join your cohort once available. Sometimes at work I feel stuck, but change that attitude to grateful. Drop down I know there’s more for my career. Accepting change is one of the biggest challenges.
I started watching your videos when i was in a coding bootcamp, and now I watch them working from the Spheres! Excited for your next chapter.
Congratulation on your Second child! It's really a blessing! Also big thank you showing venerable side of you as well and what you are going through not just a Rockstar which you are being always perceived. After all, we are all human, we learn, we grow and we adapt and we change.
Congrats Steve!! Happy for you and your fam!!
I'm so excited for this new Chapter - and all the people you are going to help get to the next level (and the one after that). Also, my husband also has a baby tooth - it's so rare!
I got hired as an SDE 2 by Amazon at age 46. I thought they made a colossal error, but I did in fact get selected by a great team. I left NYC for Seattle, it happened so fast and was exciting to be in a young city working with young people. Unfortunately I couldn’t handle the career management and had a terrible series of managers. I only lasted 2 years and moved back to NYC mildly broken when it ended. But I wouldn’t trade it for anything, the best shakeup I could have asked for. I still remember everything about it and still write multiple teammates, they were the best. Life has many chapters, they end up feeling like dreams. I swear my experience with Seattle and Amazon feels like it was only a dream, like a trip to Oz (Seattle is the emerald city). It’s now 4 years since I moved back, and I now have wild dreams about Seattle. It’s all kinda Twin Peaks now in my head!
This is great! I first found you 2 years ago during a long job search and I remember wishing you had more content for me. That search landed me in a job twice as lucrative and 1/10th as stressful. Since then your content has me laid back and feeling like I can go confidently into the future no matter what happens.
I'm not worried for your content at all - you're already great at expectation management.
You're a rockstar! Can't wait to see what's next!
I would love to see specific and tactical content on becoming a world-class software engineer. There is no shortage of 0 to 1 and 1 to 2. For me, its less about getting promoted and more about how to just be a beast that can move mountains.
I've been following you since your meta days. I'm a knowledge worker, but not a programmer, and i have benefitted a ton from some of your advice. In particular, the suggestions to go read Cal Newports stuff, and your thoughts on how to focus on eliminating distractions and productivity were a huge help in getting me promoted. Looking forward to hearing more about the new chapter, and we love you in braces.
Congratulations! I always come back to your video about preparing for tech interviews. Although I'm not currently looking for a new role, the ideas I got from there helped me grow in my current role (senior engineer). I keep sending this video to anyone I know who's preparing for an interview.
Best of luck on your next projects!
Congrats on the new changes. We'll all be still here to support. Also hopefully you don't think about the braces too much :) I'm doing my second round of it after doing it once as a kid and not turning out so great. Just another baby step to a greater day. Keep at it and looking forward to the new stuff.
You are on of the only 2-3 tech "influencers" I follow because you live in the real world and I haven't seen anything that indicates you are moving to Bali to start a "mastermind". I hope to move out to the PNW with my girlfriend once we finish our masters programs. She is doing MIS and I am doing Comp Sci Cyber Security concentration. Your content is just so pure and relattable. You are actually pursuing/living the dream not just talking about spending your healthy salary friviously. I appreciate what you bring to this space and I cannot wait to see what you put out next.
This was by far and wide the best way to ask for a "like and subscribe". I watch many of your videos and just realized I wasn't subscribed, yet how you asked forced me to look and make sure. Well done! P.S. - I have an amazon SDE interview soon, wish me luck
Congratulations for the new member and wishing you all the best for your future endeavors…!!!
You content has always been genuine and dymond quality since inception of this channel..!!!
Looking forward for the full bloom…!!!
this is so awesome Steve can't wait for this next chapter and congrats on taking the leap super inspiring!! :)
Congratulations!🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉 Really happy for you. Been a huge fan of your content cos its not clickbait-ey. It stands the test of time and provides actionable insights. All the best in this next (though far from new) life, can't wait to see what you have in store for us
Glad to hear you are retiring early and hope you make videos of what it’s like! One book I’ve recently read is Die with Zero, which is a thought provoking book encouraging of early retirement.
Meta-original-watcher here. You will never regret more time with the kids, even if you fail miserably at UA-cam (which you won't either, but to illustrate the point). I don't regret a single time leaving the work behind when my toddler says "Daddy, can you play with me?" They're only little once. Make the most of it.
Your video crossed my page and I’ve never seen your channel before… but I personally thank you for posting this! I’ve been trying to focus on goals and content that I’d love to make but like you, I’ve been struggling to balance feeling free enough to post my content and work a 9-5 as well. I’ll definitely support your growth! Keep going 🎉
It hit me so hard that your company won't attend your funeral! Also, the only person who will remember you working on the weekends are your kids!
I wish you all the best! Really excited to see your upcoming journey!
I love the way you speak, it makes me come back to your channel a few times a week. Clear and easy to digest. You deserve this next chapter in your life. Excited for this next adventure of yours!
Before you, my best youtuber resource is Techlead, I can safely say this is an upgrade, I watched all of your content always wishing you can push out more, now my wish is granted haha. Congrats for your 2nd life, and thanks in advance for the advice you will deliver to us to help with our 1st life.
Wow! Can't believe it! Congratulations, Steve. Also, believe it or not I have a fake tooth in right now too (one of the front ones). Such a pain in the ass but hope to get it solved soon too
I've an overbite too, wow thanks it's quite encouraging to see you talk about it and actually do the tough task of braces on! Super proud of you, and best wishes in future.
I say the same thing that your company won't be at your bedside when you die!! Your family will! They grow so fast so savor each seconds! Mine will be 7y next month and my daughter is 5y.
Congratulations on the bold step. I would appreciate if you can share more about how you balance life needs (e.g. Health Insurance; passive income (balancing dividend/short term interest focused investing etc).
Your work and dedication are truly inspiring! Thank you for sharing this with us
Thanks for sharing all your knowledge! And best of luck in your future endeavors! You are really inspiring.
Godspeed. Binging your videos helped me navigate big tech and career in general. Also looking at getting major orthodontics soon to fix an underbite too so i feel you on that journey. Side note: great watch the batgirl is epic
Congratulations! I can see a happy and fulfilled life ahead of you.
Congratulations also on the second bundle of joy. What an awesome time of your life.
Ok you convinced me, I'll hand in my resignation tomorrow as well
no but seriously though love your videos, excited to see more of them in 2024!!
Thank you Steve !!
Your videos helped me a lot last year to bring mentorship and leadership to my team. Last year I resigned and started a company that aims to create a collaborative environment for artists, coders and learners to meet together and create in a 3D environment. Your content definetely helped me to make the decision of stepping down from the Technical Director role and moving forward with what I want to do in my life - bring as much value as possible to the people. Happy to see that you are going to do the same !
Your content is truly awesome Uncle Steve, I am a Brazilian that has always watched your content. I think it has been some months now. I generally watch when I am waiting for a PR review.
You helped me become a better developer, after watching your videos I started paying more attention to the business side of things and to track impact instead of faster and better code all the time.
I understand perfectly were you are at, I just married (3 months ago) and I am super happy that I am going to be a father.
Wish you the best, will continue following you up close! Thanks for the amazing content!
Good luck with your next chapter, man! As a father of two little boys, I can tell you time flies so fast. Embrace every moment you get to spend with them and spend as much time as possible together. Everything else is just dust in the wind.
Thanks for what you do uncle steve! I am more than grateful that I found your channel, applied your advice into my life and get the promotion I always wanted! You are a superhero for me :)
Best of Luck in your new venture! My son, a recent college grad, just started at Amazon as a programmer. He introduced your channel to me and I love it.
Left after 7 years, a switch just flipped in me and when my manager and I were discussing new projects to work on, I just said I don't like any of these I'm out. it was scary, but eventually I sort of regret not leaving sooner. Like you, I was starting to have the same year over again and not grow.
Wish you all the best, Steve! Sad to hear you are leaving Amazon, but I'm sure you will make a much larger impact with greater content, empowering millions of software professionals. I got to know you during my Amazon interview 10 years back, as one of the interviewers. You were such an inspirational SDE, and I became a dedicated follower of your content when you started sharing your Amazon experience on social media. Thanks, Steve! Cheers to many more years of success! (Charitha, fellow amazonian :) )
Liked, commented, and subscribed to the channel and newsletter. Rooting for you!
Stumbled across your channel ~a year ago and have been trying to maintain the "brag document" ever since I saw it in one of your videos. Keep up the great work and wishing you lots of success at home and outside!
I started following you around a week ago because I heard you give great advice as a L7 engineer from Amazon, and now you left. Great stuff. Happy for you!
Best of luck, my friend. I'll keep you in my prayers as you embark on this new season. Your words really hit home for me, aligning with the phase I'm currently experiencing. You had the courage to take a step out of your comfort zone and follow your passion, that is commendable. Recently, I came across a saying: "The only place where you are not replaceable is at home." Facing a second layoff in my career as a software engineer, this quote has been on my mind constantly. Just last week, I worked from 6:30 AM until 11:00 PM for consecutive days, then my 3-year-old took my hand and told me she missed me.
Finding a job (a calling) that aligns with your family, and your passion, and that you can make enough to pay the bills is undoubtedly a blessing. I hope to see more of your content dude.
I've quite appreciated your videos. As a father of two your story really hits home. I wish you stability and the time to make some good memories with your family. I look forward to your next videos.
Good luck with all the life changes! As a new dad myself I totally understand where you are coming from. Look forward to all the great content you will create in the coming year
I am really inspired by you, Steve.
I admire the path you took: Start something on the side and when you quit, put all your energy into it.
When I joined Amazon, I read mtlynch's posts on quitting Google. I was clear I didn't want to work full-time employed until retirement. But at the same time, I found myself learning and growing so much that I like the job.
So I decided the best way to live life is by stages. Every 7 to 10 years making a big change.
Kind of like a decade change. My 20s are for working in big tech and growing. My 30s I will see.
Doing it in this order helps with financial security.
Best of luck mate. The best is in front of you.
Fran.
My sister had two baby teeth like this, it takes a while to fix but you'll be so happy when it's done. Good luck and excited for this next chapter!
As a fellow Asia millennial and former Amazonian, I applaud you for taking this huge step.
I feel this is particularly difficult step for us millennials (especially Asians) to take because we've been taught since childhood the opposite, so knowing when to leave the corporate life is not just a financial decision to make but also a mental block to remove.
Because of that, congrats!
You’re living the dream. I’m 28 right now and I have major depression. I have a good job, but man I’m so scared of the future.
Looking at your journey gives me a lot of hope. Best wishes to your family!
Congratulations! This must have been such a tough decision for you. Your values and perspective on life really resonate with me. I wish you all the best and will be following your content closely. Keep at it brother 💪
You are definitly making the right decision, your kids and future you will thank you for it! Completely anecdotal, but I've heard stores from someone who works at a nursing home, and there seems to be a pattern of elderly people always regretting not spending enough time with their kid(s)/family, and not working hard enough to mend their marriage when things got tough. They also have a lot of specific personal regrets, but it's always when they talk about the memories they made with their family and friends that their eyes light up.
Congrats man! I am 41 myself and totally understand what you say.
It is impressive to me how someone can stay for that many years in Amazon. I stayed there for 5 years and that was way too much for me. You could have gotten several pay raises by switching companies earlier, but hey... It is never too late.
Thank you for the transparency and reminding me that I'm now on the down slope, currently 45 and have been in tech since 99. I wish you all the best, and like you I enjoy helping people succeed more than the next big thing.
I'm struggling because of exactly that quote. I refuse to give my nights and weekends to companies, now that I am raising kids, unless it's truly necessary.
My mental and physical energy after work is for kids, family, friends (on the rare occasion). I don't want to spend that energy brushing up on interview prep and leetcode.
I dread interviewing anywhere else because I'm not a kid with no experience. I've years of experience, and the last thing I want to do as a 35 year old with three kids all under the age of 5 is go practice leetcode questions.
Although I’m not in software, your content generally does help people propel forward in their career and the advices are very applicable in other fields! As a Viet, I have a rule to call people who are 18 yrs older or more uncle or auntie, but now knowing you’re only a full lunar zodiac cycle older than me…Thank you anh! Good luck on this next chapter!🎉
I'm in similar shoes and totally can relate. I know you'll make it and I appreciate for your content and update which makes it genuine and very relatable.
Thanks for your video series and contributing, sharing your knowledge to help others. I am just coming around to watch this video and gave it a like to support. Best of luck in your new endeavors.
The video discusses the speaker's decision to leave their job at Amazon after working there for 18 years. They explain that they have two young children and are not getting enough sleep, which has affected their work and personal life. They also mention that they have been feeling middle-aged and want to focus on creating free content and helping others level up in their careers. The speaker acknowledges the risks of leaving a stable job but believes it's the right move for them. They encourage viewers to support their content and consider joining their program, Speedrun to Promotion, to help others get promoted faster.
10:00 mins on the dot. Congratulations Chief! I'm definitely going to be one of those people hanging around since before you quit your job.
Congrats Steve! I totally get the time freedom aspect, which I'd take it a step further to say that even if you do have time, after having full days of meetings and work, the mental exhaustion after is real. Can't wait to see where this journey takes you!
The email update earlier today shocked me, but I am really happy for you Steve. Joining you LIVE on FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 9 AM PST. Let's go!
A couple of years ago my team celebrated one's 50th birthday. We asked what advice he will give to young people like us. His answer was to have all your kids before 40.
I understand now why he said that. I'm happy for you and your next adventure! Good luck in everything, whatever you're planning to do.
Congratulations! I'm a fan of all your videos so I'm here for the life updates as well as the career advice. I was at Amazon from 2007 to 2011, and it changed my life. I learned more from my time at Amazon than my graduate degree from Harvard. I can't fathom how much you've learned from spending nearly 20 years in such a talent rich environment. I wish you huge amounts of success on your next chapter.
Would you consider your graduate degree to be useless?
@@skyhappy Definitely not. If I hadn't gone to Harvard, I wouldn't have been equipped to work at Amazon nor would I have been able to keep up with the pace.
I had always been a big fish in a small pond before Harvard, and it's easy to standout in small schools or at startups where I can be the smartest person in the room.
One of my biggest lessons was to listen and learn from others. At my previous jobs, I could just spend more time and get the win.
Both Amazon and Harvard really taught me the importance on knowing my strengths and trusting my peers to deliver.
@@DiabeticGameGuy So Harvard taught you to work in a team? Isn't this learnt in undergrad with team projects?
Congrats on baby #2 🎉.
We’ll support you. Your content, experience, and charm is unique and much needed on the Internet. Thank you so so much for everything. I follow you everywhere, from your UA-cam, to discord to LinkedIn. The reason I haven’t used Patreon is because I don’t need it currently. I am in big tech myself as a SWE. If there’s anything I can to help beyond my following, I will be happy to contribute to these amazing things you’re preparing!!!
Congratulations on making such a big chance. I too had problems with my teeth until I decided to finally make a big change and while the process wasn't fun the outcome was life changing for me. I'm so happy for you and wish you nothing but the best!
I went with invisalign to avoid all the things you were saying about traditional braces, and the big plus is that when I take my braces off I can eat whatever I want!
All the best to you on your new chapter. I’m sure your content will help (and already does help) countless of people.
All the best to you in the future. We have a 2 year old and 6 month old here as well. I know this content route will work out.
On the sleep side, for both our babies, we isolated a parent to a soundproof area while the other stayed with the kid(s), and did shifts. This helped our sleep tremendously. It wasn't as good for our marriage but it was temporary and we were in alignment that we would work hard to properly reconnect after the babies started to sleep well. It was oh so sweet to sleep in the same bed again when our first started sleeping with minimal wakeups in the night :)
I noticed the braces briefly and then immediately didn't notice them any more, you look and sound just fine to me! Your advice and guidance is as valuable as ever, and I greatly appreciate it (and I promise, the braces are much more noticeable in your mind than anyone else's!)
Thanks for the update. As a dad as well I heard of that saying about kids remembering your overtimes. My kids are bigger, and I guess I did pick being there for them even when do crazy hours when I was young. I did ask my kids about a few months ago if ever felt I wasn’t there. Gladly they remember me being there for most of the time, they know I also worked long hours but never felt I wasn’t there for them. However I guess there is also some aspect of me feeling not being able to do my full potential in my career, as I made my priorities to be my wife and kids. That said with your humble life update I guess I don’t feel too bad knowing that qualify family time is worth pursuing.
You'll make it work brother, I wish you good luck on your new endeavors, you have helped me so much, I'm sure you'll make it through whatever you decide to do!
You're the man Steve. Quiet lurker here, but can't help but applaud you on your exciting path. Good luck!
Best of luck in your new future Uncle Steve! Balance is important, you cant out-produce the ticking of time.
Welcome to the rest of your life. I’m excited for you and learned a lot from your videos over time. Can’t wait to checkout your program.
That's amazing and really inspiring to see you leave a cushy high paying job to pursue your love of teaching, helping others and fulfillment. Growth really starts outside your comfort zone!
Awesome. The title got me, but the content made me watch the whole thing. Good for you bud. We never worked together at Amazon but after seeing this - I wish we had collaborated on something.
I learned about you two years ago. I love your advice and dedicated work. You're articulate in every sentence. Hope everything will be good for your family. Thank you for sharing with us!!!
I hardly post comments on youtube, but i had to here. This is a huge step and it takes lots of guts. I love your content, cant wait to see what more you have in store. Best of luck and I'll try to support this channel as much as possible.
Congrats. You have climbed one mountain, and have found another one. I love to see people succeed.
Even though I'm not an Engineer, I found your content to be pretty useful as a product manager in tech. Not only was it personally helpful, but it also let me know what my engineering teams needed from me to be successful. I think you have a lot more value to add other than just engineers. You've got so much experience, and you're ready to soar. Don't limit yourself to just one group of people for too long.
this is so inspiring, steve - genuinely can't wait to see what you do next. only have respect and admiration for you.
your videos have been honest, useful and a true breath of fresh air for a young engineer like myself.
You are a stand up dude. With an attitude like that, no way you can fail. I admire you young man - who thinks he's old!!
I look forward to continuing watching you grow and flourish, while I steal more of your advice!
Best of luck on your new venture! Former tech employee here who has also made a career switch to pursue time freedom as well. My path is real estate.
pls do keep up us updated if you have the time to do so!
I hope the best for you, you are an amazing person and you inspire lots of people
TLDR: I can make much more money with YT conversion and benefit from the schedule I want without selling my soul
All the power to you. You've taught a lot and will continue to do so. It's a great step to be looking out for one's family and not just the next bag. Thanks again.
I don't think I can ever work for another company again especially long term . I was aging in dog years just returning to corporate america for 10 months. Congrats.
Just found your channel today. Appreciate the honesty. Being a somewhat new father myself, I can definitely relate to being time poor. Congratulations on your new journey. I wish you and yours the best!
Congrats and best of luck Steve 🎉🎉, your content was so helpful and vital for me to land a position at a FAANG company.
I look forward to enjoying and learning more from your experiences this year as we all sail through the sea of the IT industry.
Muchas Felicidades!
Good luck! Thanks for sharing these details. Wish you best with the little ones and in your endeavors
Great content, I can totally relate to not having the emotional/mental bandwidth do deal with anything else than whatever is already you are currently dealing with. People do not need to know why your answer is going to be NO. Setting boundaries and going all out to do your own thing is an important life skill.
Congrats 🎉 on everything. Best wishes 🙏🏾
As a father of a slightly older child, I can tell you it gets easier. They grow up, plus you get accustomed to your new schedule.
And on the backend after a few years, they'll bring ever more joy to us and we get back some free time.
Hey man best wishes for the next chapter! I hope to be as brave as you soon as I will also be turning 41 this year and have tons of other goals that are really in no way related to my full time gig.
As a fellow techie, good for you. I'm also middle aged, and time with your family is important. Having the benefit of working at Amazon for 18 years and accruing a mass amount of equity is a blessing, and I hope you find success on your own. In the end, the greatest freedom is to support your livelihood on your own. Working for someone else isn't great, even when the money is good. But making tons of money being employed by someone else is surely one of the better lesser evils :) anyways... Best wishes on your new chapter!