Kamal Ghorui
Imagine earning INR 42 lakh a year – enough to buy a decent car, a dream vacation, and some Instagram flexes – yet being unhappy. That’s the raw confession from Shivam Lakhanpal, a former corporate employee-turned-standup comedian, whose viral video on social media is striking a chord with many burnt-out professionals. “The measure of a man’s wealth can’t be money, man,” he declares, eyes lighting up with newfound freedom. After quitting his high-flying job, Shivam’s story isn’t about rags-to-riches regret, it’s a wake-up call on success’ hidden cost.The breaking pointSharing his story of being unhappy in his corporate job, Shivam said: “I quit my 42 LPA job.” High pay, corner office perks – yet inside, he was crumbling. “I was a needy guy at the office,” he admits. Picture this: Fresh from splurging on an ₹18 lakh car, he slides into the driver’s seat… and freezes. “I didn’t feel manly enough to drive the car that I have purchased.” Imposter syndrome gripped him – wealth felt unearned, joy absent. Weekends blurred into work; simple chats like “Aur, weekend kaisa tha?” vanished. Money bought stuff, not peace. Quitting wasn’t escape; it was reclaiming his soul.
Post-quit glow-upMonths later, Shivam’s transformed. “Now I drive it like a Batmobile,” he grins, face radiating calm confidence. The same car, same roads – but freedom flipped the script. No more “needy” vibes; he’s vibrant, alive.Quitting unlocked his creative side and passion for standup comedy. He reflects: “It was a good pay cheque but… that casual weekend check-in makes it all worth it.” It’s proof – external wins mean zilch without inner wealth. Shivam’s not broke; he’s richer in time, laughter, and self-worth now.
