Bidding farewell to the corporate world at 35… now, it’s not just about money—peace and purpose matter too..
35-year-old Biswajit Mohanty completed his higher education through loans and spent 11 years working in the corporate sector. Three years ago, however, he realized that he did not want to continue in this line of work until retirement. He asked himself two questions: If financial security were not a concern, would he still be doing this job? And does his work have any real-world impact? Following this, he resigned.
Upon leaving his job, Biswajit wrote on social media that while a bank balance can provide material comforts, it cannot offer happiness or satisfaction if one lacks the time and energy to enjoy them. His story reflects a shifting trend: professionals in their 30s and 40s are no longer just seeking lucrative compensation packages; they are looking for meaning in their work and balance in their lives.
The Evolving Definition of a Career
In the past, the career path was well-defined: earn a good degree, secure a job, climb the ladder through promotions, and eventually retire. Today, however, in the era of AI and automation, the skills required for the workforce are evolving rapidly. After spending 12–15 years in a single field, some professionals begin to feel stagnant or stuck. Even with promotions and salary hikes, they often feel it is time to pursue something new.
Career counselor Jatin Agarwal does not view this merely as a case of burnout or a fear of technology. "In my view, this is not just burnout or a fear of technology; it is an 'identity shift,'" he explains. "Beyond the age of 35, people no longer just ask, 'How much am I earning?' They also consider, 'What is the price I am paying for these earnings?' People today want to be not just successful, but also satisfied."
According to the World Economic Forum’s 'Future of Jobs 2025' report, approximately 39 percent of the skills currently required for existing jobs are expected to change by 2030. In this context, changing careers is not driven solely by dissatisfaction; it is also a proactive step toward preparing oneself for the future.
Leaving the Corporate World: Shifting Priorities
After a 10-year stint at Google, 40-year-old Megha Girish launched a venture called 'Travancore Collective' alongside her sisters. She now runs her business while traveling, rather than being tied to a single city. Meanwhile, 35-year-old Pranshu Dwivedi stepped down from his position as an Executive Director to dedicate more time to his family and children.
While the reasons behind these decisions vary, one thing remains clear: success can no longer be measured solely by job titles, salary packages, or social status. For some, professional work is the priority, while for others, the focus lies on family and personal life.
Leaving the corporate world to start something new is no easy feat; it often brings challenges such as income uncertainty, market hurdles, and the pressure to acquire new skills.
How much of a financial cushion is needed before quitting?
Jatin Agarwal suggests having a financial backup that covers at least 12 months of essential expenses before resigning. If you have family responsibilities or EMIs to manage, an 18-month cushion is advisable—after all, it is difficult to focus on your passion when you are burdened by financial anxiety. Financial planning is a prerequisite for achieving financial freedom.
In other words, simply being unhappy with your current job is not enough of a reason to resign. You must carefully account for your savings, existing loans, family obligations, and the time it may take for a new venture to start generating income. You might also consider testing the waters in your desired field by taking on small projects or part-time work.
The 'Skill Gap' is more dangerous than a 'Career Gap'
Returning to the corporate world after a break can be challenging. Jatin Agarwal notes that while the corporate landscape in India is evolving, it has not yet fully transformed. The positive shift is that companies are now looking beyond just a 'career gap'—they are increasingly evaluating a candidate's skills and adaptability. Nevertheless, a comeback is not simple; a 'skill gap' is far more concerning than a 'career gap.' By keeping your skills updated, you significantly increase your chances of finding new opportunities. In other words, even during a career break, it is essential to learn new technologies, stay connected with the industry, and keep your skills updated. The decision to change careers should be one that expands your future options rather than limiting them.
Leave the position, not your capabilities.
Moving on from a role like manager or director to a new beginning can be mentally challenging. The identity you have built over the years shifts, and comparisons often arise. Career counselor Jatin Agarwal suggests that the first step is to learn to separate your professional designation from your personal identity. Your job title may change or disappear, but your experience and skills remain. Set small, achievable goals and give yourself time. Stop making comparisons; you are not starting from zero—you are beginning anew, armed with your existing experience.
Changing careers at the age of 35 or 40 is neither inherently right nor wrong. It all depends on how well a new path aligns with your current needs and your future aspirations. Before bidding farewell to the corporate world, be clear about what you intend to do next, and ensure you are both financially and professionally prepared for the transition.
Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from TV9. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.
