Tech Layoff Sparks Relocation: Family Finds Happiness in Barcelona
URGENT UPDATE: After being laid off from Twitter (now X) in late 2022, former tech executive Steph Kumar made the life-changing decision to relocate her family from the Bay Area to Barcelona. This bold move has ushered in a newfound happiness for Kumar, who is redefining success on her own terms.
Kumar, who spent over a decade working at major tech companies including Google and Pinterest, quickly felt the loss of her career as a blow to her identity in the competitive Bay Area. “Once I didn’t have that identity marker, the tone shifted, and it became awkward,” she reflected. This profound realization led her to register a new research company, Two Cents, before her family embarked on their journey to Europe.
In 2023, the Kumars spent a month exploring various European cities to find their ideal home. They fell in love with Barcelona’s vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and welcoming community. Kumar noted, “We loved the beach, the weather, the people, and the food,” making the choice to settle in the city an easy one.
The Kumars’ move was facilitated by a relocation service that helped them navigate the complexities of securing an investor visa, which is valid for five years. They received assistance in finding a home, setting up utilities, and even navigating the legal requirements of their move. This support proved invaluable as they transitioned to their new life.
Kumar acknowledges the psychological challenges of redefining success outside the tech world. “It felt like deprogramming myself,” she said, explaining how years of societal pressure to achieve financial success had shaped her views. Now, she values community and genuine connections over the transactional relationships that once dominated her life.
Despite her previous salary exceeding $300,000, Kumar is embracing a different definition of success. “I’m willing to forgo that level of financial wealth for happiness,” she stated. The shift has allowed her to wake up each day without the stress of an overwhelming calendar or inbox.
As the Kumars settle into their new routine, they are experiencing what Kumar describes as a “high point of happiness.” She finds joy in the simplicity of daily life, from the church bells ringing outside their window to spontaneous interactions with friendly strangers. This transformation highlights the profound impact of their relocation on their overall well-being.
Kumar’s story resonates with many who have faced similar challenges in the tech industry, illustrating the potential for reinvention and fulfillment beyond traditional career paths. As she continues to build her research agency, she encourages others to consider what true happiness means for them.
Next Steps: Those following Kumar’s journey should keep an eye on her evolving research agency, Two Cents, as it seeks to make a mark in the Barcelona startup scene.
Do you have a relocation story to share? Contact this reporter, Agnes Applegate, at [email protected].
