Chapter 1: The Impact of Corporate Decisions

The recent layoffs at Shopify came as a shock to many, and they deserve our attention. I’ve always respected Tobi Lutke, especially after hearing his insights on the "How I Built This" podcast with Guy Raz. Tobi created a remarkable success story, yet his willingness to take risks is exemplified by his choice to live with his in-laws long after Shopify became a thriving company. Indeed, he and his wife shared their home with them for over a decade.

However, it’s crucial to recognize that the decision to lay off employees isn’t solely Tobi’s. The role of a CEO comes with immense pressure, as they often bear the brunt of accountability for significant decisions. Yet, in a publicly traded entity, decision-making involves multiple stakeholders. You would expect such a prosperous company to find innovative strategies to navigate challenges.

The unsettling reality is how much control corporations exert over our lives. This realization was a pivotal factor in my departure from the corporate realm, as I understood that my career trajectory, salary, and overall development were largely dictated by my superiors.

Let me share a brief story: during my career, I joined a small team that experienced frequent leadership changes. The individual who interviewed me departed the week I started, and our new manager turned out to be a source of frustration but also a valuable teacher—showing me what kind of leader I didn't want to become. During my performance review, he declared:

"You’re one of the top performers on our team, but I believe you need to pay your dues, which means staying in this role for about five years before you’re eligible for promotion."

His words struck a chord; he was right in that it was his team and his superiors' choices that shaped my future. This moment solidified my decision to leave the corporate world because, ultimately, my salary and advancement would always be at the mercy of my leadership.

If a company as successful as Shopify can make choices that affect the livelihoods of countless families overnight, why would anyone willingly hand over such power?

If you find yourself feeling unfulfilled in your current position, it's time for introspection. As a society, we often fear deviating from the prescribed path, leading us to doubt our own capabilities.

We are conditioned to remain in the education system as long as possible, which then seamlessly transitions us into corporate roles. Some diverge from this route by opting for trade schools, while others pursue self-employment. However, the latter path can be daunting, requiring us to unlearn much of what we’ve been taught.

This isn't to discourage anyone from attending university or working in corporate jobs—both can provide valuable experiences and networking opportunities. Those who venture into entrepreneurship face significant risks and uncertainties; the glamorization of this route on social media often overlooks the challenges.

Ultimately, it's vital to have the courage to heed your instincts if you suspect you're on the wrong path. Every career choice presents its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The key questions to ask yourself are: what are you prepared to risk, and what challenges are you ready to confront?

The first video, "Having The COURAGE To BELIEVE In Yourself," emphasizes the importance of self-belief and the empowerment that comes with trusting oneself.

The second video, "A guide to believing in yourself (but for real this time) | Catherine Reitman | TEDxToronto," offers practical insights on nurturing self-belief and taking actionable steps toward personal growth.