I QUIT MY CORPORATE 9-5 JOB: Choosing Significance & Sanity Over Success (Leading A Minimalist Life)

DANYELL JOHNSON'S VIDEO: • The Secret To Starting...
BEARBEAR (My Creative Studio business): / bearbear.co or www.bearbear.co/
If you're wondering, 100k is how much my position was worth. That's the amount I was offered when I decided to leave. This is the most I've ever made at a single job. I'm lucky that Milwaukee is a very affordable city and I can appreciate a relatively high quality of living here. Thanks for watching!
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∞ ON ME
Linen dress
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∞ FAQ
USA, 31
Chinese-American
Hers/Her
∞ HONOR NATIVE LANDS
I acknowledge in Milwaukee that I live and work on traditional Potawatomi, Ho-Chunk and Menominee homeland along the southwest shores of Michigami, North America’s largest system of freshwater lakes, where the Milwaukee, Menominee and Kinnickinnic rivers meet and the people of Wisconsin’s sovereign Anishinaabe, Ho-Chunk, Menominee, Oneida and Mohican nations remain present. usdac.us/nativeland
∞ BLACK LIVES MATTER
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I am taking small but crucial steps on an antiracist journey to reflect on my personal biases, (re)educate myself, and listen to the BIPoC community. This begins with acknowledging my white-adjacent privilege and by stating that I am an ally. I hear you, I see you, I am with you.
∞ DISCLOSURES
I am not a makeup artist and all comments and opinions are wholly my own. This is simply a relaxing space where I share lifestyle, beauty, and art.
#quitjobwithoutanother #quitcorporateamerica #iquit

[@SlowGaze]

Howdy, SlowGazers: Here's a 2-year update from 2024! The short of it is: I am HAPPY. I haven't gone back to a corporate, 9-5 lifestyle since making this video. Instead, I'm running and operating my own business in the field that I trained in. My business partner is also my life partner and we're starting a family this summer (2024). We've been successful enough for my husband to also leave his corporate 9-5 job in 2022. Together, we're making our entrepreneurial life work-it's not easy, but it's ours-one day at a time. I'm not posting to KZbin often these days, but you can get all of my key learnings, pivots, and successes in writing through Substack: heybearbear.substack.com I sincerely appreciate your stories and comments on this video. Blown away. Take care and slow down, gaze inwards. xoxo Diana

[@Will67267]

I also quit my job as a corporate lawyer at 45. Saved 1.5 million and moved to Spain for good. Best decision. Life is too short.

[@JimmyJaxJellyStax]

I quit my corporate and remote almost 100k salary last year after a divorce (8 year marriage) and very little social support but myself but I knew the workplace harassment was destroying my soul and burning out the rest of my life. Now I'm doing freelance and waking up again feeling more alive and not on the breaking point. I did a few months of management for another company as well after quitting the salary job but also realized I need to focus on my own software engineering and creative works still. The irony of grinding away our life for just the money is legitimately producing less innovative and quality work that deeper passionate psychological flow would be able to produce. If our sleep is chronically toxic and inflamed from our job or anything in life - our life needs us to pay attention and reassess the situation for sure. Absolutely know the feeling of corporate subservience - almost robotic and draining of compassion in a sense and then a hilarious push for coworkers to be authentic anyways in these tense eggshell increasingly HR-filtered conditions. Yet sociopaths, narcissists, and the dark-triad personalities (a trio of narcissism, psychopathy and Machiavellianism) tactfully exploit their peers in meetings (typically lateral) and a lot of conventional wisdom for victims is to brush it off, walk away, ignore them, etc - but the negative energy can still burn people out and even risk becoming serious health problems or violence in worst cases. Work bullies for sure - they didn't grow a healthy genuine sense if identity in a sense, not doing well inside, and are a slave to exploiting others for their own energy - increasing turnover rates. I think as the economy feels more desperate, victims keep their silence and endure but I must urge them to start documenting everything and open up to genuine sources of support as our health is actually more important than money.

[@heatherbeck4186]

Wow, really articulate.

[@starrjohnson1327]

Excellent comment. My narcissistic boss set me up. She sought me out for a leadership position. I had 2 assistants. One of the assistants was a sociopath. I loved my job but had to leave for my own sanity.

[@ivearies4187]

Life/work balance became a priority, so I also quit my job in my 50s. It is scary, but rather eat ramen noodles for the rest of my existence than trading time for money. Time is scarce and we don’t know how long we will be around. Kudos to those who are resilient! Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@denisenoles3159]

Agree! I am 52. My last day at my toxic job is next Friday. Not worth my physical and mental health.

[@insertmyidentityhere]

So what are you doing now to survive? Im 45, been working in software. There are things I like, but I don’t want to do sales! Lol.

[@vetgirl71]

I resigned in May 2023 (gave 4 weeks notice) from my corporate job at a New York major hospital, worked for this organization for 22 years! Worked 12 Hr days , a lot of staff turnover (great resignation), pressured by upper management to get more revenue and add on more work assignments to my staff! All of us managers had to attend multiple mandatory Ms teams virtual meetings 2-3 times a week. 25-40 emails from different departments, countless reports to analyze to maximize revenue (their way of pushing us to ride the staff for more productivity ect ). After Covid19 it got more toxic, stressful, hostile work environment with new Sr leadership! I felt relieved and happy once I left that horrible job! Thankfully I am 60 years old and can withdraw from my 403b pension plan without penalty (still have to pay income & state tax). But I’m FREE and at PEACE! I am working on studying for the real estate exam to get my license. Thank goodness I havd my husband’s health insurance (dental & Vision ) , so I can take an adult “gap hiatus” for a few months. My husband told me to take a few days off. I did feel the “grieving “ for a few days , but now I have no regrets! Not looking back! I’m going to live my Best life going forward and get a part-time non corporate job to supplement my income in a few months, since my daughter is a sophomore in college! Don’t ever listen to anyone’s negativity, leave when you are ready ! Your mental health and PEACE is PRIORITY! God bless ! 😊❤️

[@graceomakada5082]

Money is important but not a good idea if your earning it at the expense of your health.

[@ktsayasafira]

I love thatttt

[@jadedxserpent]

I'm 31, been in my current corporate role for almost 4 years and it's just not how I want to live my life! I don't know what I want to do yet, but I know this isn't it. Thanks for sharing your story! I am in the midst of my pondering phase to seriously quit soon and videos like these really help encourage me to take that step.

[@marinachristodoulides3914]

hey ! i was a lawyer but cant stay locked in an office.

[@themountainsandher1621]

Wondering if you did quit?

[@samiabamia]

How are things now? Did you leave

[@zaram2806]

@@marinachristodoulides3914 Hi, what law did you do? and what do you do now? out of curiosity

[@aussiechaga9104]

I am 42, quit my corporate job in Feb. Feel great!!! Worked hard to get to this point. Enjoy working on my dog's youtube channel.

[@denisenoles3159]

Congrats!

[@insertmyidentityhere]

Are you able to make a living just posting on KZbin? 🤔

[@aussiechaga9104]

@@insertmyidentityhere My dog's youtube channel is not making money yet. It is my hobby.

[@kbmakes]

Thank you for your vulnerability Diana. I'm 21, almost 22, and I'm in the middle of my undergrad. I just opened my own crochet shop last month. I was dreaming aloud about my "someday life" - someday I'll do this, be this..... and I realized I could start laying the foundations for that now. I'm trying hard.

[@Ari-sw9ef]

Hey, how’s everything going? I’m currently a freshman in college, and I’d love some insight from someone who graduated. Where are you now?

[@gentlestormwyatt]

I left my corp job at the end of 2022. Best decision I’ve ever made. All of 2022 I was sick nonstop. 2023 I never got sick, not ever ONCE! Sniffles here and there that went away but that was it. My aura is happy. I’m happy. I’m loving life. I have a makeup business. I also got back to KZbin and I just can’t express how happy I am. I’m not even making the money I was making at that job, yet! I plan to make double and triple that. Cheers to the dreamers and believers. 🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@xolotl74]

This was so meaningful for me, I’m 48 years old, work for the same company for 23 years, I never was so happy about this work BUT it was a “good” job, after COVID everything turned into a complete nightmare, drama employees, hard to hire new employees, overworking 50 hours PLUS 30 hours per week with my side business. The a new boss came 2 years ago and made everything even worse !!! Finally a couple of weeks I picked my date, November 17th. I will go full time with my side business which its something I REALLY ENJOY and am good at. Less money ??? SURE !!! But I think I can make it work and get what I am getting pay now in this management position work. I will be happier AND finally after YEARS i will have free time to do what I really love !!! MUSIC !!!

[@lbks16]

I do music too, can I help you with something?

[@notabot2928]

The trick I’ve learned is dont buy anything except food and gas ⛽️ downsize eat at home instead of eating out. Dont have cable tv basically cut expenses to necessities only. People don’t realize all we really need is food and a place to stay. I quit my job i dont have to deal with asshole bosses or asshole co-workers. Its freedom

[@lbks16]

@@notabot2928 I get it, but it's way harder living that way. They have to tolerate the mobbing from bosses or co-workers, but they can afford nice expensive vacations for that.

[@zerenadiaz9742]

I also quit my 9-5! I dont know what I'm going to do but I know what i'm not :) came to your channel for makeup reviews, stayed for the anti-cap vibes. thanks for sharing your lessons.

[@np-gi6vz]

How’s it going for you?

[@ralucaifrim4916]

Your intuition knows. Be in the flow have some relaxing time and everything is going to unfold for you. I am also looking for a job that will give me good vibes but until i find it i dont mind to work a part time coffee shop job (as an example) and cut off my expenses. Some temporary sacrifices for a happier life :)

[@swatigee]

It is not just “creatives” who hate the corporate world. Generally, a subset of PEOPLE hate the corporate world - even software developers, analysts, accountants, engineers. Lots of people find that it is a dumb stupid game where basically you spend your life filling in little squares - sort of like the work they do in the series “Severance”. Just wanted to point that out - thank you for your video!! Glad you had the guts to do it.

[@morountodunokedara]

when I watched severance this is exactly how I felt

[@CourtneeRae]

Such a great video. I'm almost 50. I've never had a corporate job. I've been a "just a mom" my entire adult life. My oldest is 29 and my youngest is 7 and as I move into this part life, I'm really struggling with figuring out who I am outside of that, what I want to do next, and confidence. There is a huge disassociation for me between what the world sees me as and how I feel about myself. Much food for thought here. Thank you♥️

[@SlowGaze]

Thanks so much for your positive words and kindness. I was worried about posting this video today, but I realize I had to tell my story and share it no matter what. I love what you said about finding out what defines you (that isn't work or other identifiers the world likes to use). All my light and love! xoxo Diana

[@insertmyidentityhere]

I’m 45 and also a mother. Our culture doesn’t value mothers anymore & we are expected to do it all….🙄

[@sp0rtygirl56]

Thank you so much for this video. I'm 25 and just took my first job out of college, having an unconventional path and taking longer to graduate. I took a finance job and even though I'm making good money and it's not awful(!), I just know in my bones that it's not for me. I'm scared of letting my parents down, and not knowing what's next, but your video made me feel like I'm not alone. It's so easy to catastrophize and feel like I will never make good money again, which definitely isn't true. I'm tired of sacrificing my happiness. Thank you for giving me insight, and making me feel like I'm not alone in this journey

[@rohantaneja]

Thank you for this comment. Made me feel that I'm not alone either. I'm 28, working in the IT industry, earning 6-figures and it feels so hard to give that up, even though I don't need all that money, as per my expenses. I can totally relate to your feeling of "letting my parents down" and "It's so easy to catastrophize and feel like I will never make good money again". These 2 thoughts really hit home. Everytime I feel that I'm in a rare and privileged situation and hence there's something wrong with me in thinking about quitting a "comfy" high-paying job that many others dream of, a comment/video like this appears and makes me feel so much better. So, thank you for speaking your mind! And of course, thank you Diana for the video

[@becmonty6564]

Thanks for sharing. I did this when I turned 30 and took time to find myself again. It worked and I found my way again eventually but am so glad I trusted my gut and left because it was eating away at me.

[@SlowGaze]

Wow, congrats and thank you for sharing - it's inspiring to hear others who have also made the leap. You hit on a lot that I resonate with: taking time to find yourself, doing so eventually... it's not a quick nor simple thing! And that's what my channel is really all about. Slowing down and trusting in the voices I hear within, particularly my body: gut feelings are strong and resolute for a reason. If I ignore my gut for long enough, anxiety takes its place and I'm no better off ignoring it. Thanks for watching, glad you're here! xoxo Diana

[@tiffyandtots]

I NEVER comment on videos. But oh boy does this hit so close to home…I just left a career just like yours. My career was thriving but the employer was so toxic. I stuck it out for almost 5 years and for the last two years, it has been the hardest. My advice is if you are even thinking about changing your life direction, DO IT!!! I am now changing directions and starting my own business. Time is the scarcest of resources and it is TIME for me use it wisely!! Loved your video and everything you said! ❤

[@lal3724]

I'm 33 and it makes me sad thinking about how I've been couped up in little offices separated from the world for about 13 years now. The pay is great, but I do not want to spend another 13 years in an office.

[@veronikat6996]

Wow, really enjoyed this. I’m fresh out of college and just a design intern, so guess I have a ways to go until I feel confident about relying on freelancing. I feel pretty cynical toward the corporate world in general, and am so tired of staring at the screen for so long. The idea that I can do anything I want (within reason) is simultaneously thrilling and paralyzing. It’s so easy to just keep doing the safe thing or do whatever will make you look successful even at the expense of your sanity and precious little time.

[@SlowGaze]

Veronika, I'm so glad you are keenly aware of your "surroundings" at this time. That clarity is something to cultivate and stay true to. I kept thinking whilst making the video that there wasn't anything inherently wrong with any of these corporate paths, but they were built for a different time and could definitely be improved, especially for creative folk. There's also a time limit on pretty much anything. It's hard to sustain something without falling into complacency or feeling stuck and uninspired. What you said about doing the "safe" thing is absolutely true! Constantly seeking to be uncomfortable is what I want to maintain in my life (within reason + again coming from privilege). All the best of luck with your internship - I'm sure you can learn a lot no matter where you are and what you're doing! xoxo Diana

[@letsdomath1750]

"Yeah, that would be great, but I am not focusing on that. The money will come. I focused on money before." I absolutely loved that last part, and it's what I now know to remind myself as I shift and commit to new things.

[@imalwaysme4332]

The measuring stick for success is different for everyone.... success for me right now is leaving a job that sucked the life out of me.... it was TOXIC! regaining my power and control over my life! Not letting a paycheck control me! I have the utmost trust in my abilities and will find someplace that aligns with my personal and professional philosophies ❤❤

[@KarisaKarmali]

This is amazing, I'm very much someone who doesn't like to feel trapped as well and I absolutely love this.

[@SlowGaze]

Thanks for the kind words and support. Take care! xoxo Diana

[@bebois2529]

I quit my job today!! Thank u for keeping it real.

[@phos5990]

hi! I'm new here - even in uni I knew I'm not built for a 9-5, but being an first gen immigrant it felt like my only path. sometimes it's tiring to think about what else I can do and right now is one of those period. all of what you said resonated with me. I used to also always draw all. the. time. I also feel work has taken some things away from me and I don't really trust myself in building a different life, but it's powerful to hear you speak about the radical confidence. I guess this is a rant now!! but thanks for this video ❤

[@graceomakada5082]

9-5 is not for everyone l know people glorify it.

[@user-kd2bi4wd3j]

32 year old guy here. I was making $110k annually as an associate director. They demoted me after 3 months of hiring me and so I made $15k less. In total, I ended up spending a year at the company. It was a fully remote role. I have been a marketer, digital marketer, media planner since I was in college and I have been tired of it for years. I am a creative person and the way things were operating within my company were not efficient. I quit and am headed to Bogotá, Colombia for 2 months or more to tap into my creative skills. Previously I worked remote there for one full month and loved it. I have been an artist for my entire life. I am nervous because of the unknown. I do not have a job lined and my lease is over and so I put my small number of things in storage. I do not have an apartment so that also makes me nervous but I think because I have a plan I am kind of calm about all of this. Anyone ever do anything like this?

[@lizziemiss945]

No, but wish you well, and know things will work out. As long as you have breath in your lungs and an able body, you are golden.

[@SlowGaze]

Howdy, SlowGazers. Thank you for leaving positive comments :-) This is a vulnerable thing to share (I never want to say the "wrong" thing) but it was so important for me to get my story out there. It would've been helpful to hear these words 6 months ago. I hope this helps someone today xoxo Diana

[@daliasint7968]

Very inspirational thank you 😊

[@bouha002]

You literally read my mind. I relate to you so much. Thank you 💓

[@user-fc4fd6ei5y]

This was great for me thank you. At the moment im working on myself and figuring out where I want to be in terms of work and lifestyle and seeing others being so open about this is refreshing

[@amyzing3603]

Congratulations Diana! 💃🌻 💖Follow your heart

[@MsKongful]

Thank you Diana for sharing such a vulnerable journey. Super inspiring and definitely got me thinking about my personal design career as well :) Wishing you only the best things forward!! 🔥

[@et1016]

Great video!

[@livingwithdiv]

Loved seeing this video. Thank you so much. It’s tough to be vulnerable . I am 36 and can relate to it so much. I quit my job 6 months back and figuring out my life now

[@mikiejae]

oh myyy goodness, thank you SO much for sharing your experience. I resonate sooo hard with this. Im in my dream career as an art director but this trajectory doesn't feel right. I've been confused and am still so unclear about how much longer it'll take me to muster the courage to pursue another path, but regardless I found this video so insightful. Congratulations to you! and Im really looking forward to seeing your videos pop up on my feed :-)

[@pmarshall1352]

I did the same earlier this year and it has been SO healing but also an emotional roller coaster 🤣

[@equinefox179]

Thank you for sharing this. In particular the grieving part. It is an enormous encouragement to me, today, as I “put the date on the calendar”.

[@kimmykero2421]

Good for you!! I just happened upon your video and just loved what you have to say! I've been considering quitting for quite a bit, "but my circumstances"....there!...you probably heard the trap in that statement...! isn't it what keeps us all stuck to stressful and depressing jobs...!! But I'll keep planning and working on it, it won't be long...

[@AngelissimaASMR]

Loved hearing more about your life and story. Your husband sounds so supportive! 💓

[@3sgreene]

Diana, this was so refreshing to watch. I love your energy and definitely needed to hear these words. I am 3 months post-corporate life and am in the stage where I'm doing some serious self-loathing but this video helped me to understand that this is a natural part of the grieving process so thank you so much for sharing!

[@janetcheart]

I could relate to so many points in this video. I am also a graphic designer in a corporate setting right now and feeling stuck. You must've been a talented designer an amazing person for having those roles and having people reach out to you for opportunities! I feel that if I quit I will have nothing, I don't know where my source of income will come from and for that reason it's holding me back. There's a whole mortgage that no one will be if I am jobless. I am not sociable and doesn't have a loud personality, so there's a lot of jobs I feel like I wouldn't be suited for and I get overlooked often. Even trying to switch to different fields hasn't been working.

[@rmiao9191]

Such a heartfelt honest chat and I want to leave a comment to let you know that I listened to this whole video without speeding any parts up😉, heard you and felt you. Thank you for being honest and vulnerable on this topic, I resonate with you 100%, the most important part to not lose is ourselves. Best of luck girl, everything will work out just fine 💕💕💕💕

[@byeteaching]

Great video! As a former teacher myself, I can totally relate to these mistakes. It's so important for educators transitioning into new careers to be aware of these pitfalls. Thanks for sharing!

[@KathrynRoseBennett]

Thank you for being so real and authentic - it is so refreshing on social media. There are no words how impactful this has been. Thank you for being vulnerable 🤗

[@imalwaysme4332]

I just left after 8 years 🎉 yesterday! I have a sense of calm this morning ❤. Loved your story !

[@childofthegoddess4207]

This video is so inspiring and comforting because I did not go to college or ever have a corporate job and I always felt like I need to go to school I need a better career more money a house a car (i don’t drive i take public transit) and my mom would always say you’re retired be proud and I didn’t know what she meant for the longest time but now I do ❤ I always felt like I gotta travel the world do this and that and now I’ve narrowed it down to like 2 places I’d really love to go and see and it’s ok to work a regular 9-5 i always thought oh I can’t afford a one bedroom or a shared housing experience but hearing these stories makes me realize like wow what was I thinking I’d only have to work like 3 days a week. I have so much time to just read and plan my business volunteer drink coffee sometimes I just go out walk around town and come back home it’s that simple. Sometimes I stress about things but I’m slowly getting to where I wanna be and it doesn’t involve a university degree. One thing I will say is I’ve taken an interest in bridge watching so if all goes well I might upgrade my high school math and get into the program so we’ll see if it doesn’t work out I still have my business plan.

[@lesacharna8987]

This was everything I needed to hear. Literally confirmation on everything I've been battling with in my head, thank you!

[@SlowGaze]

Good luck on your own journey! It's important for people, but most crucially women, to share their non-traditional experiences, thoughts, and fears about careers / entrepreneurship. Cheers! xoxo Diana

[@hummersd]

Thank you! 👏 You expressed well what I was feeling, but didn't know if it was valid or not to quit without another traditional job lined up. I had seen the numbers of people leaving their jobs in news articles for (somewhat) similar reasons, but don't know anyone personally, or their stories more in-depth. I'm a bit older, so leaning more towards 'my career isn't going anywhere; the younger generation is hungrier; I probably only have a few good years left at this pace..." and I would've stayed at my DREAM company the rest of my life as the values aligned so well with mine, but after numerous attempts at moving around, it wasn't meant-to-be, and I need a change. Looking forward to following your journey, discovering my own path, and seeing what else is out there!

[@LocMaiden]

Thank you for sharing and being true with yourself. I am joyous that you have a support system that encouraged you to be you. Wishing you great success in whatever the universe sways you into. Appreciated this, very insightful.

[@SlowGaze]

Thank YOU for watching and for the support as well. It really means a lot that people - even strangers - can help each other over the internet with pure kindness and well wishes. Wishing you the same! xoxo Diana

[@thatjedininja]

What an awesome slice of inspiration today! I can relate on the self loathing part since I’m on the same journey but you’ve reminded me that things ahead are exciting even tho idk what’s next and what I’m doing 🤣🤣🤣. Bravo and congratulations to you! Can’t wait to see what you’ll come up with next.

[@SlowGaze]

"You don't have to see the whole staircase to take the next step..." I think I can attribute that to Dr Rev Martin Luther King Jr, but regardless: I'm sure you're killing it! And thanks so much for watching and all your kind words. I really appreciate the positivity... this was a vulnerable video to post! xoxo Diana

[@camilleamaclean]

Haven’t watched this yet but it’s saved to my watch later. I applaud you for having the courage to know and acknowledge what’s not working. I’m currently in a job that is sucking the life and light out of me. I know I’m not equipped for this corporate life and slowing down on the rat race. I started my own social media company back in July and grateful to have that as a fall back. To anyone reading this, just know that what you’re feeling is valid and take time to find what you’re good at or get a side hustle that you enjoy. Better to have something on the side as opposed to nothing. Here’s to pivoting and choosing our sanity.

[@choosetoshine2610]

Congratulations! Its only the beginning of great things to come! Wishing you much success!!! New subscriber.

[@SlowGaze]

Thanks so much, Paula! Glad you're here xoxo Diana

[@choosetoshine2610]

@@SlowGaze Very welcome!! Blessings!!!!

[@makeovermylife6198]

This video was extremely informative and motivating. For me this encourages and welcomes change and everything that comes with it. Beautifully Done 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@SlowGaze]

Aww, thank you so much for watching and for the kind words! "Welcome change" and it will welcome you back. I wish you the best of luck with everything. Thrive on! xoxo Diana

[@melissatbk]

I can relate to this so much... thank you so much for sharing. I also have been struggling with Architecture since my first internship but just told myself to bite the bullet and "try it out for a little longer, maybe it'll be better". Its been 10 years now and I feel my depression and anxiety is just growing by the day. I also grew up in hong kong but moved back to North America and one of my biggest drawbacks of quitting my career is how would my friends and family view me when i go back to HK since everyone put their careers on a pedestal. But honestly, you're right, who fucking cares. I think it's time for me to move on...and to love myself a little better!

[@childofthegoddess4207]

I’m so proud for you and to hear that you’re much happier and escaped the world of corporate greed

[@robingoblin]

As someone who is working toward a semi-sustainable set of self-employments (primarily in the writing realm), I would love to hear your thoughts on balance (work/life), time management between different projects, and resetting your mind/energy between projects. And I’m really, really excited to see more of your content on this journey. Excited for you!

[@Jay-wv1xu]

Makeup tutorial on this look! You look amazing 😻

[@SlowGaze]

Aw, thanks Jessica! I really can lend it all to a couple of specific products - all the rest is dupable. The foundation, concealer, brow pencil and mascara - dupeable, depending on your own preferences. The all-stars were Natasha Denona's Super Glow highlighter in fair-medium and Rouje's lipstick in Camille (my holy grail red). If you're not sure what color to try from Rouje, I also really love their quad lip palettes that have the same rich pigment, finish, a mirror, and a thoughtful color range. Thanks so much for watching xoxo Diana

[@annierogers4431]

This was a really really wonderful peer into your personal life and independent choices that you’ve made, it is so refreshing to hear about someone sticking with their gut intuition and seeing it through to fruition. Congratulations to you for believing in yourself wholeheartedly ❤️ I especially love your last part (which is always my main concern whenever considering taking a leap, and what I still struggle with) about knowing that the money will come. It is so easy to stay because the money is consistent and most of all reliable and comfort but is that really what you want? So THANK YOU for your wisdom Diana, we need more of it ❤️

[@SlowGaze]

Annie, thank you so much for your positivity and support. It means the world. Putting something out like this feels vulnerable and cathartic... I just hoped I could help others who were feeling the same and needed to hear it. It's a lonely road, but so fulfilling. The money is usually the golden shackles! I was also working at a place with plenty of turn-over, and the sense of reliability and stability was false. Wishing you all the best and thanks again for watching, sharing, and being you!

[@annaapfel8078]

Thank you so much for that great video and for sharing your story. I’m in my 5th year in the (Creative) corporate world and I’m not a fan 😅 my creativity isn’t always here from 9-5 (I hope you know what I mean) I can’t wait to see what you’ll come up with Kind regards from the other side of the world 🤗

[@SlowGaze]

Yes, I know what you mean! That's one thing I had to reframe in my mind: if I'm a creative problem solver, and I like experimenting and coming at things from different angles... why do I think I can only be "creative" during 9-5? I could creatively "solve" my life on my own terms. Design my life so to speak. My corporate experience was more about politics, systems, and defense than pure creativity. Which is okay for a while because I learned a lot. But the minute I realized I couldn't go on indefinitely, I know something had to change, and it had to be me! Thanks so much for watching and best of luck in your own creative world xoxo Diana

[@serenitymusiclove]

Thank you for this video. As someone who just got their MSW and about to embark on a new career path… I needed this. I want to identify what success is for ME, before I jump into the burn out route that is traditional social work. I appreciate the space and environment you’ve made for us all here. ❤️

[@SlowGaze]

Congrats on your MSW - the future is so bright! I have so much respect for people who know something is going to be hard, but they do it anyway because they're following so inner guidance. I hope you thrive and remain resilient. Thanks so much for the continued support (watching and commenting, and fostering this environment! You're a part of this too.) xoxo Diana

[@radisonmadison]

I’ve watched many videos on this topic over the past few years. I wish I would have seen this one sooner. Today I am going to choose a date to quit my job. I’m not going to put it off any longer. I am so excited to have found you. I really resonate with you. (I am blessed and I have the means to quit and pursue something else, but the American rat race holds me back)

[@denisenoles3159]

Hi. Did you quit? How is it going?

[@radisonmadison]

@@denisenoles3159 I did quit! I had been thinking about it for a while before that comment. I was tired of working for someone else. I was tired of giving all my energy to a business instead of myself. I was so scared, so I was seeking out videos of people who had already done it. 2 of the biggest things holding me back was 1. I was worried about the extra work my coworkers would have to do if I left. 2. What would my family and friends think of me if I quit? I was so worried what others thought of me (I still am) but this video gave me the push to let go of those thoughts sometimes. THAT DAY of writing this comment, I set a date in my phone calendar of when I would put in my notice which was the end of that week. I’m glad I did that because I wanted to chicken out but I kept saying “nope it’s scheduled for Friday, you are doing it.” Then Friday, I put in a months notice. A 4 week notice made me feel better about my first anxiety, letting my coworkers down. It was scary because I was working a 9-5 job with a reliable paycheck and my goal was to work for myself. I’m proud to say I am doing well so far. My business is starting slow but I am getting business and I know it will grow! I’m still scared but I’m glad I did it. I am traveling into the unknown but I feel more in control of my life than ever.

[@denisenoles3159]

@Radison Madison That is wonderful news! I empathize with everything you said about your feelings about leaving your job. Kudos to you for taking the plunge. Yesterday was my last day. I gave 6 weeks notice (would never do that again) but left a week earlier. I hope your business continues to grow and most importantly that you are able to do what brings you joy. I have the same name on instagram so feel free if you ever want to chat about your progress. 😊

[@jessicatang983]

You do you! Definitely takes a lot of strength to buck the corporate life trend. What is the point of life anyways. My mom is also from HK! Personally, I trained for over 10 years to become a scientist in industry last year. So I have just started my 9-5 journey at 30 and I feel so much gratitude that my life has finally become easier. So we are on different pages but maybe I'll get so sick of things in 10 years or something 🙃

[@eviekevish]

Universe brought me here. Resonated so deeply. Thank you for all this ☯️⚛️☯️⚛️☯️

[@ummarjaikumarabdullah2079]

Thanks for sharing

[@keepingupwithjess_]

Thank you.

[@ChaiTogether]

Loveeee ❤🎉

[@ivettelopez2575]

You go over such important key point in this video! Thank you so much for sharing! I will absolutely be looking forward to your content! I’m currently on my own journey breaking free of corporate life to honor my own passions and values.

[@istvanpraha]

We all have different challenges. My industry changes too much. SO I am rolling my eyes at the AI stuff. Yeah, more unnecessary changes so I have to work on a million "emergency" projects. Also there isn't progression anymore, not only because older people don't retire, but the ethics of older people never retiring when they are financially set, when there are so many younger people who are broke and whose lives are old hold - that is starting to bother me. Especially when said people are stuck in the past

[@crocus5632]

Wow, respect for not selling your values for 100K yearly! We've got just one life. I also quit my job after 15 years there and will start my own company in same field, hope it works out! I believe in it.

[@learningtogetheredu]

I also quit my job which was toxic last year December and i started a KZbin channel which also i realized that it is hard to grow. However giving up is not an option. Also i have no regrets of quiting.

[@yourgirljay5827]

Could you do a follow up video??? 😊

[@Moood007]

I know this isn’t the point of the idea but it sounds like you had a pretty high role in the design section of the fashion industry and that’s what I’m aiming for, can you talk about how you got there? I’m having so much trouble getting hired

[@willowspektor]

1yr update please 😊

[@leeli1674]

This was very heart felt to me. I work at outsourcing at a lawfirm 10 yrs. And I literally feel as I loose myself each day. They don't pay living wages and they expect you to do other jobs outside the perview of job description. Its taking everything for me to just say screw it and praying that things change soon.

[@starrjohnson1327]

I hope you left❤

[@nicolehliziyo2573]

I’m quitting my job tomorrow

[@nathananderson8720]

This is one of the channels that gave me the courage to start my KZbin channel 6 months ago about self development. Now I have 462 subs and > 100 hours of watch time. I know it’s not comparable with others but I’m still proud I started because I’ve been learning so many lessons that I could haven’t learned without getting started in the 1st place.

[@Sumire-rere]

Such a good video! You sound like you grew up/was born in America. Did you study at an international school in HK?

[@larahporter8123]

I'm 52, I knew I needed to change job 15 months ago, I had the new contract in my hands.... amazing salary. I stayed to be kicked off now. My fault. Do not marry a company, do not fall in love with any company, you just work there in exchange for money.

[@inathimei]

I just realized while watching your video that isn't the fact that so many people are becoming rich or creating stable incomes out of content creation proof that the starving artist trope is not based on what is possible for us at this point in history? I mean isn't that so cool? The economy is literally shifting to make making art financially sustainable for artists

[@Veronicaperezgomez]

I love your videos and philosophy. I love the color on your lips. Could you please tell me what colour are you wearing?

[@SlowGaze]

Thanks so much for watching! This is my favorite red. It is deeper than PMG Elson and is demi matte and so luscious! It is Rouje’s “Camille” color ❤️😘

[@Veronicaperezgomez]

@@SlowGaze ❤️❤️❤️❤️ love you.

[@Veronicaperezgomez]

@@SlowGaze which format? Le rouje velours? 🙏🏻

[@SlowGaze]

@@Veronicaperezgomez us.rouje.com/beauty/lips/le-rouje-camille.html

[@Veronicaperezgomez]

@@SlowGaze done! Thank you ❤️❤️

[@Wriggs74]

100K corporate job or happy menatl health? The latter is priceless.

[@fastdeliveryl708]

I turned 34 and always held a blue collar job.. i am tired.. sometimes my body hurts , my feet. Never had the opportunity to do or learn a white collar job or office job. never made 100k in my life, all i make its about 50k and cant even afford to have family with that type of salary so i stay single. but im reaching my tiping point now, im exhausted , tired, i all i want now is to finish paying my mortgage , i want to be able to rent it and give me a two year break atleast. i dont know if that smart but i need a reset. Also i dont really enjoy the town where i libe at, its pretty and quite but i feel like a need something different.

[@starrjohnson1327]

If you are a couple there would be 2 incomes. Try not to be hard on yourself. Maybe a change of scenery is needed.

[@user-qd4pw4bb7e]

❤❤❤

[@merristaylor1594]

I’m confused. Towards the end you got into interviews, but I thought this video was going to be about leaving your 9 to 5 and not going back to another 9 to 5?

[@godfather1962]

Im 34 and i have been working in insolvency consulting for close to 7 years. Its an extremely negative environment to be in dealing with assholes, criminals and creditors everyday. I have changed from an outgoing and sporty person with good hair to a gloomy negative fuckface with a receding hairline. I feel like dying every day and cant wait to let everything go

[@WHOTHAFUCK]

dude, same here. but the hair thing is genetic. has not much to do with having a shitty job besides maybe speeding it up a little because of stress. other than that, hairloss is not the end of the world. especially at our age it gets more normal by the day. forget the hair, change your life for the better, even if that means escaping your current environment. I might do the same - or at least try to reduce the hours a lot to simply have more free time. Good thing is, i have a paid-off condo of my own, so im rent-free.

[@celestialj5908]

Thank you.