For many engineering students, finding a well-paying IT job is their dream. A good salary, a comfortable home, and financial independence are often seen as the finish line.But what if earning Rs 7 lakh per month still doesn’t make you feel financially secure?This question is at the heart of a conversation that resonates with thousands of online professionals. On a recent episode of the Personal Finance Podcast solve your financial problemsModerated by mutual fund consultant Ans Human Sharma, 29-year-old software engineer Rohit opens up about his career, his fears and the pressures that keep him working 16 hours a day even though he already earns far more than most of his peers.
“I work for two companies”
Rohit revealed that he is currently working two technology jobs in an American company – one during the day and the other at night.“I work for two companies, one during the day and one at night,” he said, explaining that he works close to 16 hours a day.A strict daily schedule leaves little room for other things.“I rarely give time to other people… I just want to get out and about,” he admits, admitting that work takes up nearly every aspect of his life.
The stress starts long before wages are paid
For Rohit, working long hours is not about luxury but responsibility.Recalling his childhood, he said his family could not afford the education of his two brothers.“Only one can learn… so my brother taught me. It was like a burden to me, and if I couldn’t do it, it was like a family failure,” he said.This feeling has stayed with him throughout his career.Even after achieving financial success, he continued to push himself, believing he had to create long-term security for his family.
Why artificial intelligence still worries him
Rohit said that despite owning two homes, buying a new car and amassing savings of over Rs 80 lakh in mutual funds, fixed deposits and stocks, he still worries about the future.“I was working an IT job and, you know, artificial intelligence was booming. I thought if anything went wrong, I would be making less money,” he said.His concerns reflect growing sentiment across the tech industry, where rapid advances in artificial intelligence have fueled discussions about automation, changing job roles and the need for continued upskilling.When asked why he continued to work for so long despite having huge savings, Rohit explained that he had set an ambitious financial goal for himself.“In the next five to six years, I want to save Rs 7 to 8 crore. Then I will quit that job and just continue my job in the US,” he said.
A lesson every student should think about
Rohit’s story is not just about earning a good salary. It talks about the psychology of success, financial anxiety, and the pressure that many young professionals put on themselves.For students preparing for engineering entrance exams, management courses or technical careers, this story provides an important reminder.Career success is measured in more than just salary. Long-term growth also depends on learning new skills, adapting to technological changes, managing money wisely, and protecting physical and mental health.Artificial intelligence is undoubtedly changing the workplace, but experts are increasingly convinced that professionals who continue to learn, develop expertise and remain adaptable will remain valuable in the years to come.Rohit’s journey also highlights another reality. Financial security isn’t just about someone’s income, it’s also about how safe they feel. Sometimes, the biggest challenge is not accumulating wealth, but finding the confidence to believe that what you accumulate is enough.This may be the most important lesson for today’s students. A successful career is important, but it shouldn’t come at the expense of your health, relationships, and peace of mind. The most meaningful success is enabling people to build meaningful careers and fulfilling lives.Disclaimer: This article is based on personal experience in Publicly available podcast conversations and relevant publicly reported information. The opinions expressed are personal and are intended for educational and informational purposes only.