Leaving the security of a corporate job isn’t something most engineers are encouraged to do. Our world is built around structure, consistency, and predictability—things we’re trained to value and uphold. But at some point, I started to feel that the structured path I had worked so hard to build was no longer in alignment with what I wanted for my life.

I had worked in various roles, as a research assistant in biomimetics at the University of Utah, as a Pashto language instructor, and later in project management and sustaining engineering for Fresenius Medical Care. These roles gave me incredible technical knowledge, discipline, and confidence. But eventually, I reached a point where I wanted something more flexible, more personal, and more aligned with the lifestyle I envisioned for myself and my family.

So, I made the leap. I stepped away from the corporate track and into the unknown world of self-employment. It was one of the most challenging decisions I’ve ever made, but also one of the most rewarding.

The Freedom and the Fear

One of the first things I noticed after leaving corporate life was the sense of freedom. Suddenly, I had control over my time. I could prioritize my family, travel when I wanted, and explore business ideas without layers of approval or red tape.

But freedom doesn’t come without its counterpart—fear. There were moments early on when I wondered, “Did I make a mistake?” Without the structure of a 9-to-5 job, it’s easy to feel untethered. You’re forced to create your own systems, find your own motivation, and manage your own stability. And for someone like me, an engineer used to clearly defined outcomes, that uncertainty was uncomfortable at first.

Lessons from Engineering That Helped Me Succeed

What I didn’t realize until later was how much my background as an engineer had prepared me for this transition. Engineering teaches problem-solving, adaptability, and critical thinking—all of which are essential in self-employment. When something doesn’t work, I troubleshoot. When I don’t have the answer, I research. When plans fall through, I pivot.

Project management, in particular, gave me the tools to break big goals into small, achievable tasks. Whether I’m planning a client service, launching a new offering, or setting up a schedule that balances work and family, I fall back on that structured approach to move things forward.

I also learned that failure is part of the process. In engineering, a failed experiment doesn’t mean the concept is wrong—it just means the method needs adjusting. I’ve come to see business the same way. You learn, refine, and try again.

Redefining Success on My Own Terms

One of the greatest shifts that came with self-employment was redefining what success looked like. In the corporate world, success is often measured in promotions, titles, and performance reviews. But in my current life, success is about balance. It’s about being present with my children, pursuing projects that excite me, and building something meaningful on my own terms.

There’s a certain kind of joy that comes from working for yourself. Even though the days can be long and the road uncertain, there’s also deep satisfaction in knowing that your time and energy are aligned with your values.

Now, I get to incorporate my love for wellness, baking, family, and engineering into the rhythm of my life. I run, walk, and stay active as part of my daily routine—not just as a side note to a busy workday. I bake with my kids and teach them about structure and creativity in the kitchen. These things might seem small, but they are the foundation of the life I wanted to create.

Advice for Others Considering the Shift

If you’re an engineer, or anyone, thinking about stepping away from corporate life, here’s what I would say:

1. Know your “why.” Self-employment is not always easy, but if your reasons are rooted in purpose, you’ll find the motivation to keep going.
   
2. Start with a plan. Use your skills to map out your goals, resources, and timeline. Engineering taught me that a plan, even if it changes, is better than diving in blind.
   
3. Be ready to adapt. Just like any experiment, your first idea may not be the final one. That’s okay. Flexibility is key.
   
4. Build a support network. You don’t have to do it all alone. Whether it’s mentorship, family support, or professional collaboration, surround yourself with people who encourage you.
   
5. Celebrate progress. In corporate settings, recognition often comes from others. In self-employment, you have to acknowledge your own wins—big and small.
   

Looking Ahead with Gratitude

Today, I’m grateful for the experiences that shaped me, both in and out of the corporate world. My time in research, teaching, and engineering built the foundation I needed. But stepping out on my own taught me how to listen to myself, trust my instincts, and embrace a more intentional way of living and working.

The transition wasn’t without its struggles, but it led me to a place where my personal values and professional goals finally feel connected. And in that connection, I’ve found peace, purpose, and freedom.

For anyone standing at the crossroads, unsure whether to stay or leap, know this: if you’re prepared, passionate, and willing to grow, the leap can lead to something far greater than you imagined.