Google Layoffs: Shao Chun Che, a former Google employee, recently discussed the emotional impact of his layoff on his life. He detailed his struggles with sleepless nights and anxiety and the eventual journey of self-discovery that followed the unexpected end of his tenure at the tech giant.
In an interview with Business Insider, Chen shared how the layoff, which took place on Valentine’s Day 2024—just a day before his 38th birthday—had a profound effect on him, both personally and professionally.
Chen joined Google in 2016 as an account manager for Singapore-based advertisers and later became the head of small business ad sales for Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Pakistan markets. After eight years at Google, he described his tenure not just as a job but as a relationship that had become central to his identity. Chen said that it was emotionally tough for him. “My initial reaction was pain and anger, driven by ego,” he said. He even compared his situation to those who weren’t laid off, deepening his distress as he questioned why he was chosen to leave despite his loyalty and experience.
The abruptness of the layoff, coupled with the company’s swift move forward, left Chen struggling with grief. He admitted to experiencing many sleepless nights, his body in shock as he processed the news. During the two months Google gave him to find another role within the company, Chen panicked and applied for any available position in a desperate bid to stay with the company. Even when senior leaders offered him roles, Chen ultimately turned them down, realising they weren’t the right fit. “When I turned them down, every part of my body was shaking,” he recalled.
Chen took a solo snowboarding trip to Japan to cope with the emotional toll. He shared that during this time, he often woke up in tears, realising that his body had entered recovery mode as soon as he allowed himself the space to heal. This period of reflection inspired him to begin sharing his story on YouTube, hoping to support others facing similar struggles. His openness resonated deeply with viewers, some of whom said his words were more impactful than the advice from their therapists.
Since then, Chen has started a coaching and consulting business, along with teaching at the National University of Singapore. Although his current earnings don’t match his salary at Google, he values flexibility and a renewed sense of purpose.
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