Core Insights - The article discusses the transition from working in a large tech company to exploring independent projects and opportunities, highlighting the newfound freedom and potential for personal growth after leaving a structured environment [25]. Group 1: Independent Development - The individual engaged in independent development, launching a tool website that unexpectedly garnered over 1,000 monthly page views without promotion [9][11]. - The experience of developing a product led to the realization that even a small user base can generate significant income, as demonstrated by a similar product in the market [11][12]. - The individual is currently refining a new product prototype, drawing inspiration from international competitors, and plans to seek user feedback once it stabilizes [13]. Group 2: Job Search and Employment - The job search process is described as challenging, with factors such as market conditions and personal expectations influencing outcomes [14][15]. - The individual eventually secured a position at a state-owned enterprise, which, while offering lower pay than a large tech company, provided a more manageable work-life balance and reduced stress [16]. - The article emphasizes the importance of evaluating company culture and founder backgrounds when considering opportunities in startups or smaller firms [15]. Group 3: Freelancing and Side Projects - Taking on freelance projects is presented as a viable way to earn money quickly, although it comes with risks related to payment reliability [17][19]. - The individual managed to balance freelance work with family time, contrasting this with the demanding schedule experienced in a large tech company [18]. - The article suggests that having a formal agreement for freelance work can mitigate risks associated with payment delays [19]. Group 4: Content Creation and Personal Branding - The individual explored content creation on platforms like Xiaohongshu, aiming to build a personal brand, although initial results were modest [21][24]. - Despite a hiatus from content creation due to employment, there is potential for future collaborations based on existing traffic and interest [24]. - The article highlights the importance of personal branding and content output as a means to generate additional income and opportunities [20].