Delhi founder who left Google warns against quitting in frustration: "You have to face ab kya kar rhe ho?"

A former Googler-turned-entrepreneur has warned young professionals against quitting without a stable plan, suggesting professionals “shouldn’t quit just because they’re frustrated.”

Rohit Sakunia, founder of ArtE Mediatech, reflected on his journey from Google employee to entrepreneur in an Instagram post. “Kaafi log poochte hain – ‘bhai, 9-5 chhodni chahiye ya nahi?” (A few people ask me if they should quit their 9-to-5 corporate jobs),” Sakunia said, adding that he left his job more than a decade ago and has “no regrets” about the decision, while advising others not to make impulsive career moves.

‘Don’t Quit Because You’re Frustrated’

Sakunia urged professionals to think twice before resigning from their jobs. He argued that entrepreneurship should not be seen as an escape from hustle culture or as a result of being influenced by inspirational success stories on social media.

“Don’t quit because you’re frustrated. Don’t quit because someone’s startup story inspired you at 11pm. Don’t quit because the grass looks greener,” the Delhi-based founder wrote.

Instead, he urged people to switch only when they have a clear understanding of their goals and are ready for the challenges ahead.

According to Sakunii, individuals should only leave their jobs when they know exactly what they are building for, “and when you have enough ground under your feet to handle the first fall.”

The reality of losing corporate identity

Based on his own experience, Sakunia said one of the most difficult aspects of leaving a high-profile company is the change in personal identity.

He explained that professionals often underestimate how much of their identity is tied to the organization they work for. Once they retreat, questions about their next steps can lead to insecurity and self-doubt.

“One day you’ll be a ‘Google guy.’ The next day someone asks ‘What are you doing now?’ And there is no clean answer,” he wrote.

He added that this period can be particularly challenging, both emotionally and financially. Sakunia said people should make sure they have a strong financial plan before deciding to take the risk.

He suggested aspiring entrepreneurs build up enough savings before resigning, recommending at least six months’ worth of expenses as a safety net.

Looking back without regrets

Looking back more than 10 years later, Sakunia says he’s still convinced that leaving Google was the right choice for him.

And now, more than 10 years later: “I run a business that I built from the ground up. I can attend my son’s cricket practice on Tuesdays without needing anyone’s permission. I take calls while walking because that’s just how I work now.”

Not everything is perfect, but it’s mine. Some days are hard. Some periods are slow. But not once – not one day – did I think, ‘I should have stayed.’ That feeling is everything. If you are facing that decision right now, take your time,” he concluded.