The 22-year-old, who also runs a popular digital content platform with over 70,000 Instagram followers, said stepping down was not an impulsive decision but the result of months of internal conflict. (Representational image: Unsplash)
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Moneycontrol11-01-2026, 20:06

22-year-old quits Rs 2.7 crore AI job after 12-hour grind, cried in front of CEO

  • Daniel Min, 22, quit his Chief Marketing Officer role at AI startup Cluely in New York, earning over $300,000 (Rs 2.7 crore) annually.
  • He cited relentless 12-hour workdays that cost him personal freedom and emotional well-being, describing the 'grind' as suffocating.
  • Min, a Wharton School graduate, joined Cluely at 21 and initially found the work fun, but it became monotonous, leaving no life outside work.
  • He broke down while telling CEO Roy Lee about his decision to leave, who responded with empathy and encouraged him to prioritize happiness.
  • Despite the financial sacrifice, Min felt the cost of staying was higher, receiving widespread support on social media for his honesty.

Why It Matters: A 22-year-old quit a high-paying AI job due to burnout, prioritizing well-being over a demanding career.

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