Software Engineer

I did everything by the book, I work with an elite firm, studied in an elite institution. I tried to work hard, although I know it may not be the hardest but I am sure it was not the least.   I did...

I did everything by the book, I work with an elite firm, studied in an elite institution. I tried to work hard, although I know it may not be the hardest but I am sure it was not the least. 

I did my MBA from a tier 1 uni and now work in a tier 1 firm, but somehow it never translates into money. 

My current pay is 20LPA after 6 years work ex and a tier 1 MBA. I see many young kids with packages 50LPA plus, and no not only SDEs. school mates who used to party when I was a nerd, and are now influencers earning 1 CR a month. On average I see everyone earning more than me at my age, whether corporate, father’s business or social media.

I have started to believe that money comes to the lucky, you may work hard or not, but it does not correlate to wealth. 

I am looking for viewpoints from people who do not think so. Would like to know a new perspective.


P.S. - those who say I am not trying to switch correctly, I have tried but somehow they only have low paying roles for me

Do you think getting Rich is by luck mostly?

Do you think getting Rich is by luck mostly?- Grapevine

Welcome to Office Gossip's Private Community

Recently being seen a bunch of people here taking a dig on people with high salaries. This is so counter productive. Rather than trying to learn from people who’ve been able to get a head start and getting it for yourself why are you resorting to hating on them? 

This is what is the difference between India and the west. The west is so fu##in capitalistic that people just understand and respect those that have money and everyone else is working hard to make it too. 

Don’t hate the race. Don’t hate the winners. We can all win. Help each other. 

My salary is also high so whatever…

Stop hating people who succeed

Well , you couldn't resist. Could you? 
 Congratulations for the highest package on earth. 
  
 It's stupid race. Let me give you a broader perspective on why a decently paid individual can make it up with consistency within 10 years. 
  
 The inflated package you got will also result in 
   
 Increased risk of layoff 
 Increased rent based on location 
 Increased additional expenses 
 Increased health problems because of stress 
 Decreased family time 
 Confusion in priorities 
  
  
 Since you got money early in life, congrats but what on earth will you buy once you have it all? 
 By 50 you'll be left with minimum wishes you can wish for. 
  
 These are just a few of the common things...  
  
 No hate but everyone should work on their pace once they get a decent salary.

Cybersecurity

Business Development Manager

Welcome to Indian Startups's Private Community

If there is one thing you can learn from Ambani’s wedding, it’s the fact that money is the only objective measure of power and influence in this world.

-

The biggest rivals politically, share the stage and greet each other 
The biggest rivals in cricket, dance with each other
The biggest rivals in cinema, greet each other 
The biggest rivals within family, help each other 
The biggest rivals in business, hug each other 

-

You should strive to make as much money as you possible can because money is power. You don't do it for pleasure; you do it because that's how you win. You do it because in this ruthless world, being on top is the only safe place to be. Money is your shield and your weapon, and without it, you're nothing.

-

You make as much money as possible because, let's face it, money's fun. It's the key to all the cool stuff—power, parties, private jets, you name it. Sure, it's also about proving yourself and not being the screw-up everyone thinks you are, but mainly it's about the thrill. Making money means you're in the game, you're relevant, and you can do whatever the hell you want. 

-

Plus, it gives you the leverage to tell people to screw off and actually get away with it. So, yeah, stack that cash and enjoy the ride.

-

You make as much money as possible because it’s your ticket to security and status. In this family and in this world, wealth is what keeps you safe and respected. It’s about climbing the ladder and proving you belong at the top, even if you weren’t born into it. With money, you gain leverage, influence, and the ability to protect yourself in a cutthroat environment. Plus, it doesn’t hurt to enjoy the finer things and have a buffer against the chaos that comes with being alive in this world. 

-

You make as much money as possible because it’s about breaking boundaries and redefining what’s possible. It’s not just about the money—it’s about the disruption, the innovation, and staying ahead of the curve.

-

Continued in comments

Make money! As much as you possibly can!

Ambani's wedding is a display of the heights of income inequality in India.

Product Manager

Consultant

Welcome to Personal Finance's Private Community

I have seen a lot of questions here about how to become rich or successful. I initially thought I could make a course and shill it on LinkedIn, but then I decided against it. 
Context is: I work in a field where most around me are making a lot of money, and typically everyone's a crorepati by 26/27. That's what I have seen. 

Their secrets: 
1. They work 12+ hours a day consistently for 5 days a week, and then some more on Saturday (sometimes Sunday). Even at the peak of covid, when everybody was scared and would avoid working, these fuckers would.
2. They are ultra competitive. They will compete on anything, not just work. They are addicted to poker. They will debate anything during lunch time, no matter how frivolous it is. Pure TYPE A folks.
3. They never complain about working hard. It's just second nature for them. Stems from IIT/IIM days, but continues. They don't question it. (I do, because I am not them) 
4. They obsess over money. They constantly try to figure out where they can make more money. All invest actively. 
5. They are incredibly well read. Can speak at length on any topic. They truly love going deep into a topic and coming out with the crux of it (or so they may think). 

Now I know one thing. These are very obvious things. Everybody knows if you do this, you probably would become successful. 
But my takeaway is to do it. It's super difficult. But at my age, I have no option but to not try, now that I have seen how its done.

Most people I work with are worth 1Cr+ after 25. I have figured their secret 😛

Doesn't seem worth it though. Maybe until you get into an expertise in your field, you should strive for point 1. Beyond that, I wouldn't recommend. 
  
 Money isn't the most important thing in the world.  Maybe it is for some folks, good for them

Analyst

Having almost  6yrs experience with single digit salary 😭 every friend and colleague are making a killing every recruiter I speak to just offer x% over last CTC but not the amount I ask stating budget issue. This is taking a toll on my mental health unable to focus on up skilling / working in current org plz help not sure what to do.

Stuck at low CTC and low confidence

Welcome to Product Managers's Private Community

I sometimes feel that I have fallen behind in life. Majorly in career. Even after 10 years of work ex, I'm still making 28 Lpa only. Some People (not the hardworking ppl) who've started after me have made much progress, not thru effort, but blind luck. Is it wrong to feel this way?

Taken behind in life

Hi fellow grapeviners,
I came across few posts mentioning i am earning 60+ or 70+ lpa having 2.5 to 3 years of experience but age is only 23 or 24. I know this is too good to be real. Some iitians can do but are these people real?
Please answer because these posts make me depressed i don't know why?

Reality Check

I can't seem to relate to much of the non-FAANG junta out there. I mean I have a cushy job with probably 0.1% pay of all SWEs(pretty much like all of us do). But these cookie-cutter roles have been taking a mental toll on me. Like I am getting paid but I feel a little purpose-less. What am I gunning for in this life? 

All my life I wanted to go to a good college to get into a good company. In college I wanted to get a good codeforces rank so that I could get into FAANG. Now that I am in FAANG I have nothing to look forward to. 

Any of you all feeling this way? Because I don't see myself offer-shopping and feeling much happy about that either.

Feeling depressed at Amazon(2YOE/41L CTC). Anyone else feeling the same way?

Recently watched Soul on hotstar and this actually makes sense now. The character was trying hard to perform in front of a crowd and  when it happened he wasn't feeling any change at all. At that time, he was told about the fish and the ocean story :-  
  
 I heard this story about a fish. 
  
 He swims up to an older fish and says, “I’m trying to find this thing they call ‘the ocean.'” 
  
 “The ocean? the older fish says, “That’s what you’re in right now.” 
  
 “This?” says the young fish. “This is water. What I want is the ocean!”

Welcome to Ask Grapeviners's Private Community

What are the things that broke people think they're supposed to do to get wealthy that will never work

Founder

Saw the new FIRE community here on Grapevine, thought of sharing my story here.

Let's talk about money, startups, and the misleading "get rich quick" mentality that's captivating our generation.

I'm 32, and I've been with TCS for 11 years. Yes, TCS. Not a trendy startup, not a unicorn, just good old Tata Consultancy Services.

And I've just reached a 1Cr net worth.

Before you assume I'm a senior executive or had family wealth, let me clarify. I started as a fresh graduate earning 3.5 LPA. My parents are middle-class government employees. I had no special advantages or lucky breaks.

What I did have was discipline. Pure, unglamorous discipline.

While my college friends hopped between startups, chasing ESOPs and IPO dreams, I stayed put. I lived modestly, invested consistently, and focused on steady growth.

Here's the unvarnished truth:

1. Most startups fail. Your ESOPs are worthless if the company doesn't succeed.
2. Even if your startup thrives, the chances of making life-changing money are slim. You're more likely to end up overworked and burnt out.
3. FIRE is unrealistic for most people, especially through startup gambles.
4. Slow and steady really does win the race.

My journey wasn't exciting. It looked like this:

- Lived with roommates until 28
- Drove a second-hand Alto while peers financed luxury cars
- Invested 50% of my salary monthly, without exception
- Educated myself about index funds, debt funds, and asset allocation
- Declined expensive trips and unnecessary luxuries
- Focused on upskilling and steady promotions at TCS

Was it always enjoyable? No. Did I sometimes feel left behind when friends posted about startup funding or fancy perks? Absolutely.

But you know what's truly satisfying? Reaching 1Cr net worth at 32 through consistent, unexciting progress.

I'm not saying everyone should work at TCS or that startups are bad. If you genuinely love the startup world, pursue it. But do it because you love the work, not because you think it's your ticket to early retirement.

The startup world has sold us a fantasy. They've glorified overwork, made "hustle" a personality trait, and convinced a generation that success only comes through a miraculous exit.

That's simply not true.

Success often looks like showing up daily, living below your means, and making smart, consistent choices with your money.

To the 20-somethings chasing startup dreams and thinking ESOPs will enable early retirement - reconsider. The odds aren't in your favor.

Instead, think about this:
- Find a stable, fulfilling job
- Live well below your means
- Invest aggressively and consistently
- Focus on steady career growth
- Ignore flashy social media lifestyles

It's not exciting. It won't get you media attention. But it works.

Here's the best part: this path has allowed me to have a balanced life. I'm married with a young child, and I get to spend quality time with them every day. I play with my kid after work, I'm present for family dinners, and I even have time for my hobbies on weekends.

I'm not constantly stressed about the next funding round or pulling all-nighters to meet impossible deadlines. I have the mental space to be fully present with my family, and that's priceless.

I'm not planning to retire soon. I actually enjoy my job and the stability it provides. But reaching this milestone has given me options and peace of mind that no startup gamble could offer.

So, is anyone else out there quietly building wealth without the drama? Let's hear your stories.

And to those still pursuing the startup dream - I wish you the best. But consider that the less exciting path might be the one that actually leads to both financial success and a fulfilling personal life.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Slow is smooth, smooth is fast :)

How I Hit 1Cr Net Worth at TCS Without the Startup Hype (and no, I don’t want to retire early)

What's the point if you don't spend any money in your 20's, just saving mentality will only have the money in your account and now you won't be able to spend or enjoy just like your 20's, I appreciate the stability and patience but what's the point of having this all?

RPA Developer

Engineering Manager

How the F*ck are they Angel Investors, when I can't even think of clear Mutual fund investing strategies, the LinkedIn is becoming a cool hollow capitalist community

Who are these 23 - 28 yr old Angel investors on Linkedin?

Growth Manager

Reality of market value for people in 40s and 50s: most people find themselves replaceable, their market value drops and difficult to switch career. Thoughts/comments?

Silent Desperation! Working in 40s and 50s

Saw a similar post somewhere from an European and I think it’s pretty valid for India.

For context, I am in my early 30s, a home owner, living in tier-2 city with a pretty high salary. Recently got married and my wife also works as an Enterprise AE for a listed US company. Our cost of living is pretty low given the house and tier-2 city. Even if we had a kid, the overall cost of living will not change a lot. 

I got to where I am, economically, by a combination of hard work and luck. Luck definitely was a huge part of it. Knowing the right people at the right time, working on the right technologies helped a lot more in advancing my career a lot more than grinding for good grades. Even the ability to buy a house without much debt, was partly because I was lucky to sell my shares in a fairly small startup. 

It would be easy to say things aren’t economically bad based on my own experience or that of my close friends. However, when I look at things more objectively, I can’t help but come to the conclusion that we are screwed as a generation. Except for maybe the top 1%, salaries are not keeping up even with inflation. Housing costs, specially in tier 1/2 cities are unbelievably high even if you want an average apartment. Jobs are no where to be seen. The whole generation is living in the hope of the stock market rally never ending. This seems completely unsustainable as a nation. I might be doing well for now, but I still recognise how these are real problems for most Indians, who’ve been waiting for India’s century for 20 years

Given that the services industry contributes more than 50% to the GDP, the current state of joblessness, the overall sluggishness in IT and related sectors, and the fundamental changes happening to the way IT services now work, I wouldn’t be surprised if we see a complete recession in the next 4-5 years.  

Lately, there has been a lot of criticism of anyone expressing anger on how bad things are but I think it’s helpful to talk about this.

Is it possible for those doing well to still acknowledge how our generation is screwed economically?

Great post, I was thinking to jot down something similar.     
 The way I see is that our generation(I'm Gen Z), is financially fucked due to 2 main behavioral changes:     
 1. Increase in consOOmerism: We're zoomer consoomer. GenZ is known for show off culture. We will buy the latest and greatest phones on EMI every 2 years. People spend thousands on sneakers, bags, branded clothes.     
 2. No Savings: People are no longer saving money. My then girlfriend used to got mad at me in market when I tried to bargain. Its considered a turn off lmao. People find bargaining bad now... like I'm looting a poor guy. People don't realise how much our parents sacrificed and bargained everyday to save money.

Welcome to Business Roles's Private Community

Should I work at well-named startups or companies to work at (eg: CRED, Infosys, etc) with less pay?

Or Should I work at unknown startups or companies (eg: early-stage startups or local companies) with higher pay? (x2 the salary here).

Note: For the above, the experience & designation are the same.

The question is related to future work prospects does working at we'll name brands help me get higher pay in the future?

Help me

27 Male ,got an offer of 20.5 lpa.

Most of the people I know here at grapevine are making way more and friends in my circle are making around 35-50 lpa.

Now I am confused,I have a lot of questions in my head.

Did I slack off?

Or did I do okay?Cause I was avg in college(7.6 cgpa) tier -3 and started my job at non-dev role.

I thought market was down hence I was happy with 20.5 lpa,but now I see folks making more money.

My progression : 
3 lpa to 5 lpa (Accenture for 2 years) service based S.A.P basis job.

Drone tech startup: 
ML Engineer (2.3 yoe)[8-12 LPA]

Now I will be joining an MNC : 
As Sr.MLE offer in hand (20.5 LPA)

Overall I have 4.3 yoe.

Any advice is greatly appreciated.

I might be insecure,I cannot talk about this problem with my parents or friends (or anyone around me)

Feeling like shit at 27.

I was earning 15 LPA at 6 yoe. Going by your standard I should have been crying every day!! In grapevine, top 10% earning people of corporate India keeps flexing their package. If you keep comparing with them, you will always feel miserable.

Machine Learning Engineer

Overview: 
Everyone around me, be it old school friends to the people in the bangalore startup ecosystem are planning to or already in the process of doing an MBA. 

What is happening:
Most of the people I know, either are going for a tier 1 MBA in India or colleges like “Carnegie Mellon”/ “INSEAD”/ “NUS” these are really good places. 

Why am I concerned:
I dont have great acade, GEM candidate so I have decided to not pursue CAT at all, and MBA outside India is too expensive. 

I feel like my job and career are going fine with 4 years of professional experience I am making 25LPA in marketing. I am not keen on doing an MBA but I dont want to regret later.

I consider myself to be fairly smart but what happens when I am competing with people who have great brand names on their resume and are actually smart. 

People on GV with more experience, have you gone through this struggle? 


Sidenote: I also have friends who have cleared IIM ABC, ISB and not gone, because they just wanted the admit letter. Which is brave lol!

Will an MBA destroy your life or make it better?

Performance Marketer

Truth has been spoken

Product Marketing Manager

in your organisation, who are the people who actually make more than a crore (in cash, ESOP not included).

I am trying to validate the stuff I hear from my friends that every other guy in startups is making butt loads of monies and I look around and find even getting a 30-40+ Lacs job is demanding and not flying by the minute

1cr+ sal folls

Digital Marketer

10 years of schooling, studying hard during festivals, sacrificing my playtime, my childhood for marks..
2 years of high school - Completely cut-off from the world for a good college.
4 years of hard work for a job for a below average salary!!!

On the other hand:
Some random chai wala earns in lakhs.
Some MLM meme girl, living a luxurious lifestyle.
Insensible people are valued in society.
Even a 12th fail selling beer in his family shop lives a better life.

All the hard work I did is in vain? Whatever I did till this point of time was useless? What's the point of an endless struggle, if my destination has more struggle? Something is really wrong..

I have lost all my motivation 😞

What am I doing wrong?

Would you be happy, satisfied and fulfilled by scamming people with MLM schemes? Would you respect yourself? 
  
 Would you be happy, satisfied and fulfilled by running a tea stall? Would you respect yourself? 
  
 Would you be happy, satisfied and fulfilled by dancing on reels? Would you respect yourself? 
  
 Scamming people is illegal, immoral and unethical. 
 Running a Tea Stall is nothing to be looked down upon. It is honorable hard work, regardless of perceived status. 
  
  
 Dancing on Reels -> gaining followers -> being valued by society is nothing to be looked down upon. Creative pursuits, regardless of platform, are honourable hard work and deserve appreciation and respect. 
  
  
 There are people earning millions of dollars doing OF. It depends on the individual whether they are happy doing it or not. 
 So please don't get demotivated. 
 If you see yourself entertaining people by all means work hard on social media. 
 If you see yourself in the food and beverage industry by all means work hard to get there. 
  
 But if you don't see yourself doing all of that and you see yourself doing what you're doing now or something similar but just earning much better, with a prestigious title tied to your name, and being valued and appreciated more by people, then just accept the fact that you've just begun to climb the mountain. Though it's a long and hard climb, it's worth the view. 
  
 Hard work never goes to waste. Work harder and smarter. You'll get where you want to. But decide where you want to go. Stop looking at people who are not even in the same race as you.  
 It's like cursing your destiny why am I not born at Ambani's place, it's if no use. Think and take action only about controllables and leave rest to God.

DevOps Engineer

I am working in IT with below average Salary. Now thinking of becoming rich only business can make you rich. How much I earn, I can’t become rich, considering becoming CEO of FANG is out of picture in a normal person’s life. How to switch from job to business ? Any success stories ?

Do you think getting Rich is by luck mostly?

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