Part 2/8:
The past 18 months have been marked by a sense of stagnation, where what was once filled with enjoyable activities like climbing trees and playing video games has transformed into an overwhelming malaise. Having lived a vibrant life in China, where he enjoyed work-life balance and a low cost of living, the decision to step back into the American "rat race" seemed both enticing and ultimately regrettable.
The software industry beckoned, promising opportunity, but what followed was a string of layoffs—four in five years. Living off dwindling savings, he reflects on how the charm of corporate life quickly deteriorated into a nightmare of insecurity and self-doubt.