Leaving My $700k Job Taught Me About Money and Happiness
Jay Gengelbach, a 41-year-old software engineer, transitioned from the comfort of a high-paying Big Tech job to a more fulfilling position, ultimately learning valuable lessons about money and happiness. He began his career at Google in 2006, where he spent twelve years. After a successful stint, he joined Verily in 2018, where his earnings peaked at $700,000.
Career Journey and Challenges
Despite enjoying the perks of working at Google, including lavish benefits and a vibrant culture, Gengelbach felt stagnant after several years in the same role. He shifted within Google to various teams, including payments and Google Now, before seeking new opportunities at Verily.
However, after six years at Verily, he experienced dissatisfaction. The challenges of management and the impact of the pandemic took a toll on his emotional well-being. He noticed that he lacked meaningful connections at work, which added to his isolation as he took on more managerial responsibilities.
Deciding to Leave
As layoffs became common in the tech industry, including at Verily, Gengelbach found himself at a crossroads. With considerable financial security from his high salary, he contemplated his next move. In mid-2024, after valuable discussions with his wife and therapist, he decided to resign, despite the risk of a lower income.
During his job search, Gengelbach outlined the qualities he desired in his next role. He aimed for a position that focused on individual contributions rather than management. He successfully landed a job as a distinguished engineer at an insurance company in October 2024. By January, he accepted a position at Vercel, enabling a move to Canada.
Embracing Change and Redefining Success
Relocating to Canada allowed Gengelbach to align his professional life with personal satisfaction. At Vercel, he works to build hosting infrastructure for websites, fulfilling his desire to contribute to projects that enhance business efficiency. He now tackles challenging problems while enjoying a faster-paced work environment.
Lessons Learned About Money and Happiness
Reflecting on his journey, Gengelbach recognizes that high income does not equate to happiness. Although his Big Tech salary facilitated a comfortable lifestyle and significant retirement savings, it also led to inflated living expenses. His move required lifestyle adjustments, including downsizing his home and reducing vacation spending.
- Gengelbach’s salary peaked at $700,000 while at Verily.
- He moved to Canada in July 2025.
- Vercel’s recent funding round tripled its valuation to $9 billion.
Ultimately, Gengelbach’s experience emphasizes the importance of finding fulfillment in one’s career over mere financial gain. He has learned to navigate life beyond the constraints of what he refers to as “golden handcuffs.” Now, he feels happier and more accomplished in his current role, proving that sometimes leaving a high-paying job can lead to personal and professional growth.
