With news of layoffs at Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) making the rounds, a Bengaluru-based IT employee has shared his feelings of frustration and burnout on Reddit. “TCS layoffs got me thinking – are we actually living or just surviving?” he wrote, reflecting on the growing pressure in the corporate world.
The Weight of Corporate Life
The user described how the daily grind has left little room for personal fulfillment. “I’m sitting here realizing most of my energy and time goes into work – deadlines, office politics, dealing with difficult managers, and now constantly worrying about job security. I try to save whatever energy and time I have left for actually living, but honestly, it feels like I’m barely surviving,” he shared.
Despite acknowledging the stability his job offers, he admitted to feeling overwhelmed. “Don’t get me wrong, I’m grateful for my job and the stability it brings. But man, the pressure these days is intense. Every week there’s news about layoffs somewhere, performance reviews feel scarier, and I catch myself thinking ‘is this it? Is this what my 20’s are supposed to look like?’”
Searching for Balance Beyond Work
The post also highlighted how corporate culture impacts personal growth. “The worst part? I’m getting older every day and feel like my best years are getting consumed by spreadsheets and status meetings. We work 9-5 (let’s be honest, it’s more like 9-7) just to maintain our lifestyle, pay EMIs, and somehow convince ourselves we’re ‘building a career.’”
He then revealed his decision to reclaim control of his life. “I’ve decided – enough. I’m going to start actually living, not just existing paycheck to paycheck. Going to make the most of whatever energy and time I can save from these work hours.” The user even invited like-minded professionals to join him. “Anyone else feeling this way? Would love to meet some like-minded people who get this struggle. My office is near Lalbagh, so if you’re around that area and up for some real conversations over chai, let me know. No fixed plans, just whenever we can all sync up.”
He ended his post on a hopeful note, saying, “I’ll bring my DSLR along – maybe we can capture some moments that aren’t work-related for a change No agenda, just good vibes and honest talk about navigating this whole ‘adulting in Bangalore’ thing. Maybe we can figure out how to actually live while doing the 9-5 grind. Drop a comment if this resonates with you.”
This candid post has struck a chord with many professionals, resonating with those feeling stuck between financial security and the desire to truly live.