Reflections on Leaving a Long-Term Job
Overview
- An insightful exploration into the author's remarkable 13-year journey at Cookpad.
- A candid look at the motivations behind leaving and the excitement of embracing new challenges.
- The crucial influence of a positive work environment on personal and professional growth.
A Long and Eventful Career
Reflecting on their transformative 13-year journey at Cookpad, a celebrated cooking recipe platform in Japan, the author vividly recalls their initial days as a junior team member in 2012. Back then, they were filled with a mixture of excitement and a hint of trepidation. Over the years, they enthusiastically dove into numerous exhilarating projects, tackling significant system upgrades and innovative feature developments, which improved not only the platform's functionality but also user satisfaction. For instance, tackling the monumental leap from Rails 2.x to 3.2 was both challenging and rewarding. Each project brought new lessons and inspiration, captivating their spirit. However, as the years passed, the initial spark began to fade, transforming the once-thriving environment into a mundane routine that felt more like a cage than a nurturing garden for growth.
The Decision to Move On
As the author approached the end of their tenure at Cookpad, an acute sense of urgency and restlessness took hold. They sensed that the growing workload, coupled with an alarming lack of new challenges and learning opportunities, was slowly draining their enthusiasm. Were they willing to continue living in this comfort zone, or had they reached a tipping point? This contemplation became a catalyst for significant change. Ultimately, the author realized that prioritizing their personal and professional growth was essential to rekindle their passion and joy in work. With that bold recognition, the choice to leave transitioned from a mere possibility to an empowering necessity — a leap toward reclaiming their ambition and zest for learning.
A New Chapter Begins
Fueled by determination and hope, the author plunged into the job market, engaging in invigorating conversations with diverse companies. Each interaction sparked curiosity and fresh aspirations, making the job search feel less like a chore and more like an exciting journey. This exploration culminated in an exhilarating offer to join IVRy as a Principal Engineer, a role that promised not just responsibility but also an opportunity for creative expression and impactful contributions. They imagined themselves embarking on projects that leveraged their expertise while collaborating with a team that radiated energy and shared values. The chance to break free from the confines of their previous role and immerse themselves in a culture of innovation filled the author with enthusiasm. As they step forward, anticipation bubbles within them for the rich experiences awaiting in this new chapter, and they embrace the unique challenges ahead with open arms, ready to chart their course toward success.
References
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