An Ex-Microsoft Engineer Quits Job in Singapore after just 20 days, surprised colleagues by calling the work environment too relaxed to drive career growth. A software engineer shared the story on X, sparking a viral debate about hustle, relaxation, and ambition in the tech industry.
The engineer, previously at Microsoft, exited the new role swiftly. In a viral X post, a colleague shared his reasoning: "A guy from Singapore joined my team. Ex-Microsoft. Resigned in 20 days. When I asked why, he said: ‘The work is too chill. If I stay, I’ll stop growing. At 45, I’d enjoy this. But right now, I need the grind.’ Me: sitting here, chilling for the last 2 years." He believed a laid-back job suited later years, not his current need for challenges.
Shared on August 26, 2025, the post blew up on X, amassing thousands of likes, reposts, and replies. It struck a chord amid ongoing tech industry tensions, with layoffs at major firms fueling discussions on work culture, automation, and mental health. Commenters split sharply, some praising the pursuit of growth, others defending a slower pace.
One user supported the decision: "He did it right. If you genuinely want to grow, you must be grinding. Sitting in a company without any real work or growth opportunities is enjoyable, but it’s also ruining your career." Many agreed, arguing that intense work builds critical skills in a cutthroat industry.
Others saw it differently. One commenter argued: "Chilling in corporate is ideal. I dont want to grind myself and burn out, just to make someone richer. If i want to grow and learn, i will do a course or something in the chill time." Another took a blunt stance: "That Singapore guy is an idiot. What if he doesn't live till 45 to later 'enjoy the chill' but instead passes away during his 'grind'? You are better chilling now. You won't regret losing out on the chill when your time comes."
This high-profile exit echoes a broader caution from another X user, who recently urged professionals to rethink the glorification of overwork. On July 30, 2025, they posted: "Be careful what you normalize in the name of hustle. Lack of sleep, skipping meals, ignoring your health, tolerating toxic bosses or unbearable work conditions, just to say you’re grinding. My dear, that’s not ambition. That’s self-destruction wrapped with a shiny wrapper... Choose longevity over hype."
The post highlights risks like burnout and health issues, advocating for sustainable success over short-term grind, aligning with debates sparked by the ex-Microsoft engineer's choice.
The clash mirrors broader struggles in tech, where high-pressure cultures meet growing calls for well-being. Factors like Singapore’s grind-heavy mindset influence perspectives. Experts suggest career paths hinge on personal goals—chasing rapid advancement or prioritizing mental health.
(Rh/Eth/VK/MSM)