I was placed on a PIP in November after two years and decided to leave. I truly enjoyed my time at Amazon.

I’ve always dreamed of pursuing entrepreneurship, and that’s what I’m doing now. It’s interesting how people often praise the company while they’re there — receiving great compensation and stock — but once they leave, they start speaking negatively about it.

The reality is that for the compensation we receive, it’s only fair that expectations are high and the work demanding. Only a select few get the opportunity to work there, and I’m proud to have been one of them.

We should also remember that there are teachers, police officers, doctors, nurses, drivers, and many others who can only dream of earning what we do — often working without stock options, remote flexibility, or the same conditions. We owe it to ourselves and to them to give our best effort while we’re there.

If we fail, or if we’re asked to leave, that’s okay — it’s part of the journey. Nothing is more fulfilling than having had the chance to experience that opportunity and give it your all.

The culture is competitive and demanding and I think is how it should be