Summary:
Laid off from Twitter, Steph Kumar experienced a profound identity crisis that forced her to redefine success
She made the bold decision to move her family from the Bay Area to Barcelona, trading corporate pressure for work-life balance
Kumar founded her own startup in Barcelona, applying big tech skills with a focus on personal fulfillment rather than corporate metrics
Her journey highlights how career setbacks can become opportunities for authentic transformation and happiness
The relocation provided a new perspective on what truly matters in life and entrepreneurship beyond traditional success markers
A Life-Changing Layoff
Steph Kumar's world turned upside down when she was laid off from Twitter. Like many in the tech industry, she had built her entire identity around her career. The sudden job loss forced her to confront a fundamental question: Who was she beyond her professional title?
Steph Kumar relocated her family from the Bay Area to Barcelona after getting laid off and founding her own company.
The Identity Crisis That Sparked Transformation
For years, Kumar had been climbing the corporate ladder at major tech companies including Twitter, Pinterest, and Google. Her career defined her sense of self-worth and purpose. When the layoff hit, she experienced what many high-achievers face: a profound identity crisis.
"My career had become my entire identity," Kumar realized. "The layoff wasn't just about losing a job—it was about losing who I thought I was."
The Barcelona Decision
Instead of immediately jumping back into the Bay Area tech rat race, Kumar made a bold move. She packed up her family and moved to Barcelona, trading Silicon Valley's intense pressure for Spain's more balanced lifestyle.
The relocation wasn't just geographical—it was psychological. Kumar decided to redefine what success meant to her, moving away from corporate validation and toward personal fulfillment.
Building a Startup on Her Own Terms
In Barcelona, Kumar founded her own startup, applying the skills she'd honed at major tech companies but with a completely different mindset. Her new venture focuses on creating meaningful impact rather than chasing venture capital or rapid scale.
"Starting my own company after years in big tech felt like reclaiming my power," she explains. "I'm building something that aligns with my values, not just corporate metrics."
The Happiness Equation
Kumar's story highlights a growing trend among tech professionals: the search for work-life balance and authentic fulfillment. Her experience shows that sometimes the most career-defining moments come from stepping away from traditional success paths.
Moving to Barcelona provided more than just scenic views—it offered a new perspective on what truly matters in life and career. The slower pace, rich culture, and emphasis on living rather than just working have transformed Kumar's approach to entrepreneurship.
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