Im not going to pretend like this video didn’t shock me. Over the years I’ve built you up in my head to be impervious to these kinds of things. I’ve always been fascinated by your level of commitment to every thing you’ve taken an interest in and in my opinion that’s your most powerful characteristic. If you hadn’t posted this video, I would have continued the unchecked assumption that you know what you’re doing because you know what you want. But you are just human. Regardless, I know for a fact that those powerful characteristics about you, are real and will be the driving force behind whichever decision you make.

As an electrical engineer who experienced a layoff in 2018 after 25 years of service, I can empathize with your current situation. Despite the good pay, I was exhausted from the constant stress and feeling burnt out. Though I tried exploring a different career path, I ultimately returned to engineering after being away from the industry for almost four years. I understand the challenges you're facing and admire your resilience. Don't let the haters get you down; your videos are interesting and informative, and I appreciate them. Keep pushing forward, my friend!

I continue to believe that the best part of your KZfaq content is your honesty

I've been watching you casually for years. Thank you for making this difficult heartfelt video. And thank you for the great content you have made for years. And just because you are an ex engineer does not make you an ex valuable man! That's awesome your girlfriend gave you such an awesome gift helping you get better by finding a doctor in Taiwan.

Don’t quit here. You’re a natural. Not everyone has the gift of making interesting and casual/honest youtube videos. I for one enjoy the variety of content. I like seeing your perspective of things. A mix of funny and thoughtful.

Just want to say, super super shocked, because it's youtubers like you who have motivated me throughout the years to be frugal, hard working with the dream that being a full time content creator is the ultimate goal. But I really do appreciate your honesty, it came at a good time. I was feeling a bit upset with my own job, but knowing that the grass is not always greener on the other side helps a lot. Thank you so much for your transparency, it helps a lot! (and omg, yes, the doctors is Taiwan work some legit magic!! I love the healthcare in Taiwan).

I quit engineering 12 years ago and haven't yet been inspired to go back. During the time I worked, I saw the profession go from something with good work/life balance, to one that completely takes over one's time and energy. While I could've picked better stocks, I'm not complaining about having time to enjoy life. Perhaps the biggest thing I miss about the office is the community and camaraderie, but in a remote-work world, that might be hard to find again anyway. The Internet can be cruel, I've attracted some serious hate from seemingly innocuous posts on Reddit or Facebook. Everyone's challenges and desires are different, if you don't have enough money for the life you want, or are facing medical challenges, maybe looking for work again is the right answer.

Please don’t quit many of us love you and proud of what you come along.

Been following you for years. Sorry to hear that you’ve been going thru such difficult times, but happy that you things are getting better! Keep it up!

I’m proud of you!!! Keep up the great work!!! ❤

There are a lot of hateful people out there with nothing better to do than throw shade at others, I think from a place of envy. I recently retired, and your videos helped inspire me to take the steps to retire early, and kept me motivated during periods of my own self doubt. Thanks for putting yourself out there, and ignore the haters!

Long time lurker, just wanted to say that I've always enjoyed watching your videos and appreciate the effort and honesty you bring. Everyone needs a creative break at times.

We have LOVED you videos for years!!! Still practice many of your ideas even now!❤

we love you bro, keep pushing.

Glad you are feeling better and your rash was healed. Thank you for your honesty and I really appreciate your sharing your story with us. There are even greater things ahead for you. Most people don't understand the challenges of your work and those who do don't share about it much. Thank you for sharing your life with us!!

I always appreciate you and your videos. Stay strong!

Thanks for being so honest. It's much appreciated, regardless of what you decide to do in the future. Take care of yourself 💕

Hi, I doubt you will read this but if you do, I want you to know this: I look up to you as a role model. You’re like the brother I never had. You’re so knowledgeable about so many areas that I care about: saving money, being cheap, understanding electronics, being a “do-it-yourself” kind of guy. I aspire to be more like you. I don’t think I could accomplish what you have on KZfaq because you’ve created so much practical content and amassed quite a lot of subscribers. Please take care of yourself and your mental health, even if it means not reading anymore KZfaq comments and/or taking a break from the platform. Even if you decide to return to engineering, please take care of yourself. You’ve explained previously your bad experiences in industry and I hope that you’re not going back into that toxicity. I genuinely hate the people who post hate comments on the internet because they offer no positive contribution. I really wish that I was able to accomplish what you have because if I did, my situation would be better.

Thanks for being so transparent and sharing your journey. I'm shocked to hear you're in this position but I'm really glad you shared it so I know how to avoid

Thank you for sharing what you've been going through, dude.

Appreciate the transparency. Sounds rough. Sorry you’re going through that. Hope you’re able to weather the storm. 👍👍

I wish you great health . Love the content and I hope you bring us more. You definitely have a unique take on life and it’s inspirational.

It's sad that KZfaq invests so much into ways to retain their viewers eyes but so little to protect creators. This shouldn't be happening, KZfaq has been around long enough to have something already in place. You'll get through this brother

Love your videos. Best of luck to you.

BTB you are a great person, please be strong! We love your videos 🍀🌻

viewers hate hearing the word "resentment" but i can relate a lot there - not all the time, but I go through phases. being a yt creator is seriously misunderstood until you actually do it yourself, find some traction, and experience everything that comes along with it instead of just hearing about it. side note: the decreases in analytics across so many channels is pretty wild. i mean it makes sense, fewer people at home, watching videos 24/7, lower ad budgets, way more creators, etc. but I still can't help but still feel caught off guard when i see numbers plummeting. i have a feeling we'll see a renaissance of candid, minimally edited vlog-style content like we had with OG youtube. i think people are gonna get sick of the over-edited, fast paced and unrealistic uploads. maybe it's wishful thinking, but that's what's happened to me as a viewer. also, reading comments is dangerously addicting lol. I still read every comment I get, and they still emotionally effect me as much as they always have, good or bad

Thank you for your honesty and vulnerability. It’s a shame that people go out of their way to not be kind to someone that contributes to KZfaq in such a meaningful way. You are appreciate by many and I hope you receive it

Thank you for making this video. It really resonates. I hope you keep pushing forward.

Hi BTB! Long time subscriber. I enjoy your videos. You helped me removed my contact lens when I was in anxiety mode. Your instructions was clear and straight to the point. Hang in there. Everybody has there lows. Hope you feel better.

Hey BTB, I’ve been enjoying your videos for years. You are definitely more creative and think a little different (in a good way) than some people, and that probably brings out the haters. Opening up and talking about it should help. Keep doing what you want to do, it’s your life.

I admire your honesty. Thank you!

Do what you think is best for you king. We all have regrets in what we do, we’re only human. We can only do what we think is best for ourselves in the moment. You truly are in inspiration to watch as a 23 year old myself. I have learned a lot from your videos. Focus on yourself and do what makes you most happy.

❤️your videos!! Especially travel videos. Do what’s best for you and nobody else.

Thanks for sharing. Also I love your random videos similar to the present wrapping video! Hope you will continue :)

I was one of the first 100 subscribers. In the time since I started watching you and since you quit your engineering job, I've completed 4 years of study as an electrical engineer. I find the experiences you share valuable, even if they're not always what I agree with or what I want it's still another perspective.

I'm sorry you've gone through this, we are all human at the end of the day. I understand hate comments, I get them too, they really do affect you no matter how hard you try not to. You definitely don't deserve hate, I can't understand why anyone would, I love your videos and have been watching you since 2017/18...you're a huge inspiration to me and many others. Please don't ever stop making videos.

Keep up the video's I really enjoy them. The folding of a package was a first for me and very interesting. Learned something new! I love how you put things in your point of view. Keep up the good work

Health issues are rough...i hope your get healthy brotha. Enjoyed your videos since 2017.

Hey, Francis. I'm sorry you're going through this. I'm glad to hear from you and do wish you the best. The pandemic really took a toll on everyone in every aspect. It's frustrating but it'll change slowly. Give it some time and keep your hand up :)

We love and respect you, Francis. To hell with the haters! It takes courage to share your vulnerability. Thank you! Just know you're an inspiration to SO many people.

Just want to let you know that I really love your videos. Please continue to make these great videos, and continue to be you!

I've seen your videos here and there over time and I love your content. Keep pushing! Wish you the best of luck. I find your videos very valuable and I really appreciate your insight. Hope this helps! :)

I love your videos. I don’t really comment much but I always watch and I enjoy your content when I see a new one pop up. Keep doing you and staying healthy and strong and find ways to push yourself. You have a strong mindset and are a really smart person you got this

I find your videos interesting and informative. You are making a difference in the lives of others and have gained much respect from your viewers. Do not allow the haters to get you down. You are appreciated. Keep up the good work and may you be happy in all that you do.

You've done so much for so many. Being a Creator in the public is definitely not easy and taking care of yourself comes first! You have many supporters and people you're constantly inspiring. Take care!

I appreciate your honesty and the videos. You are a good man. Thank you

I love your videos and have often wondered what happened to you--I especially love your sense of humor. Hang in there it's always darkest before the dawn! Even though you’re going through hardships in life there is light at the end of the tunnel! You are strong and you will come through this!

I've been watching your videos for many years, I don't usually comment but I really like your videos, you always present well thought out ideas. I hope you find your way and feel better. Greetings from Chile

watching you for the first time, youre doing a great job. DONT GIVE UP!!

Youve got great communication skills and a logic brain. Been following for a while. Thank you.

You're a huge inspiration! Take care!

I enjoy your videos keep on making them.

I wish you all the best. You're great! Your videos on finances really helped me get my act together. Take care

I found your channel a while back when you made your salary in engineering video. It was super helpful as I was considering changing jobs. Thanks for all the content over the years.

Don't feel too bad. It is nothing personal, everyone has people that hate them for some reason and there will always be people that just whine about everything. They come to criticize you, and then they will do the same in other videos, because they dont have anything to contribute so they want to bring down people that actually do something useful

New subscribe here from Australia. Please don't quit. Love your videos!

Hey Francis, don't forget how challenging the 9-5 grind was. In my experience, the 9-5 career grind doesn't get easier. It gets harder and harder until you get laid off or you make it to traditional retirement. I think you might have had to deal with the challenges of a full time job on top of the challenges you have now.

We ❤ love you man. For every 1 negative energy there’s hundreds of us who keeps returning for your videos . Keep it theres hundred reasons to keep positive . We got your back.

You can do this! Supporting you! There's honestly so many haters out there it's so sad 😭

Take care of yourself man, glad to hear what's up and I'm super glad you're feeling better (at least in terms of your skin). I don't watch every video but I always enjoy the content you produce and seeing your journey and growth over the years. You're funny and insightful and probably were a key influence in me going down the FIRE route, a huge influence in my life. Wishing you the best!

Sorry to hear what has happened! Stay strong!

Thank you for speaking so openly!

This breaks my heart 😢 I have loved your videos for years and started my financial journey because of you. My daughter is an Instagram Influencer and she doesn't read her comments because she doesn't want to read the hate comments. You have to be such a strong person to do what you do and that is commendable. Much love to you ❤️ and I hope you find some relief with your symptoms. 🥰

been watching you for a while and bummed to see this video and saddened to hear you so beat from the hate comments! whatever is in the works for you in the future we fully support and stand behind you! very appreciative of the wisdom and food for thought from your videos throughout the years

I think I’m a long time subscriber. Evaluating whether or not you made the right decision depends on what price you would put on your freedom. Personally, I think it’s awesome that you took a different path. I’d choose freedom over salary every time

I’m living the other path you would have taken. Family , kids , engineer . Making decent money . Different kind of stress. Always busy. Would I trade it to be you ? Some days, sure. But I have to accept my situation . I guess life is what you make of it.

You are awesome and thanks for the content. You are on the correct path. It's never too late to go back if you want, but I know you enjoy the freedom. Keep it up.

I am following you for years and I am always looking forward to your new videos.

Damn bro, wishing you the best!

Much love to you man. I really enjoy your videos and ideas. All the best to you- forget the haters.

Be encouraged. We are subscribed to you because we like you. I think you are really funny! Sometimes, when I'm exhausted after working my IT job, you'll say something funny that brightens my day. I think you should do a series of videos of you trying various volunteer opportunities that peek your interests.

Your videos are great! I enjoy them and you change many peoples lifes to the positiv. Keep making these videos!

hope you are feeling better these days. 💕 love your videos, all of them! But especially the food ones.

Bro. I feel you. Coming up with content is really difficult! But keep it coming. I've really enjoyed your channel and forget all the haters! You are loved more than internet trolls could ever bring you down! You have my support and tens of thousands of others too!

I appreciate you 👍 been watching for many years

Long term subscriber here, you don't know for sure working 9-5 would have been better, maybe the allergy could have affected it as well. Given the infinite amount of activities we can do and most of them more enjoyable than making KZfaq videos, it's amazing that you're so focused and dedicated on creating on a regular basis to help, entertain and educate other people. Thank you!

Hi Francis, I’ve commented before years ago and I really appreciated it when I saw your reply. I think that you may just need a bit of a brand refresh. You have a pretty niche “cheapstake” audience which wouldn’t surprise me as to why revenue would be low. I also think that long format videos are kind of at a low right now in society. I think that producing a wider variety of content (can still be about finance but perhaps a wide range of topics with that field) and producing a mixture of short form and long form videos might give you a fresh start on KZfaq. As for the hate comments, I started producing videos for my business and get a lot of hate too lol! I try to just laugh it off and do my best to discredit them in my head as mean as that might sound. I wish you luck in whatever journey you choose to take in life. ❤

Hey there! Just saw your video here and I hope you're feeling better and I'm glad that you were able to fix your 2-year long allergy issues! I definitely always keep up with your videos as you have a lot of creative ideas. From things down to your thoughts on stocks, crypto, real estate and frugality. We have a lot of parallels or at least I think so and I can relate to what you're saying. I also probably live really close to you ie Bay Area and so I'm in tune with the costs you mention. And you know I don't always agree with everything you say as I feel you should live more - but I also admire it at the same time. And I totally get that there are just people who post comments that can make you feel down. Take your time and post vids when you want - and not to fill a quota - because your own health and happiness comes first. Here's to a better 2023! :)

You’re an intelligent person and you’re in a position to apply yourself in many ways other people can’t, not necessarily returning to an office engineering life.

As someone new trying to get into being a KZfaqr thanks for sharing this, and letting me know mentally how to brace myself moving forward

Keep Pushing !!!

I really like your channel!! I have watched your channel for a few years. I get your message. People suck sometimes. Keep going!! I enjoy your content.

You're a KZfaq legend, man. Keep pushing!

Appreciate the transparency

As an introvert I thought I would love working from home. But after three years now, I can honestly say that depressed mood is more frequent, as well as feelings of apathy and low motivation. "Freedom" doesn't mean much when I feel more & more like a lackadaisical teenager hanging around the house. My plan is to go back to working on-site for an employer, to re-establish structure and, hopefully, to receive some positive energy from being more active and engaged with other people. I wish you well in finding what is best for you. Thank you.

Hey Francis - i tune into your content regularly and don’t comment often. Appreciate all the efforts for all the videos. They ve helped me and my wife understand the value of FIRE and where we want to be (somewhere in the middle where we are still employed full time but spend a little less and enjoy our time a little bit more) I follow some other KZfaqrs and I agree that over time negative comments from social media are a detriment over time and have a slow negative build on mental health. I think what makes it challenging for you is that in my case I can complain to my boss or talk with HR if I m being treated poorly and there will be some changes and I feel better. There’s no real regulation in social media unless it’s really threatening. If I m really upset I can just switch jobs and find a new company to start over with but can’t really do that in social media unless you leave the space. Maybe you just need a change in pace for now. You got me thinking that with all the retirement calcs I’ve done that heath is precious and that it’s hard to predict when we get to a point where we might not be able to do our job for various reasons so that motivates me to keep working for now. Keep on making the content as long as it makes you happy. If it doesn’t there’s always the next opportunity and chapter in your journey.

Long time sub, don't let the haters get to you. They are just jealous!! Keep it up!

Thank you, we all need honest man like you

I really like your videos! I appreciate what you do.

Should hear the things people say to me. Appreciate the honesty on this video, it takes a lot be put yourself out there.

I love your videos mans. You’re the only subscription I have on YT that I watch every single upload. Sucks that the internet brings the worst out of people.

I've been a long time fan for 5+ years. You're f*cking awesome bro.

I appreciate so much the honesty. We are all human. Truth be told you are an inspiration for people who want to do better financially. Quitting your engineering job may not have been the best decision long term, but it was an informed decision at the time. I think that as long as you are doing something you enjoy like building things, teaching, cooking, etc, that enjoyment will translate on video and people will watch.

Hey Francis, I have subscribed you since 2017. At that time I was looking for jobs in bay area and it was a hard time for me. But I came across your channel. Your channel inspired me a lot and I really appreciate! I love you bro!

I have been watching your videos for years and I like it. I don't comment much. There are silent people who appreciate your work. Thank you.

thanks for sharing and opening up. Love your content. Please focus on your mental health sir we care about you. You are making a difference to the people that actually listen. Love Ya

I really thought this was going to be a click bait video. I really appreciate your honesty on everything.

I appreciate you Francis!!

I have missed your videos, as one of my favorite & first KZfaqrs - I love your honesty, but you can be too hard on yourself - you’re gonna rise above this - And YES to the family idea - your motivation will shoot THROUGH THE ROOF

Just found your channel. Hugely inspiring! I recently quit a well-paying - but highly toxic - job that was causing a lot of health problems. Within a week of quitting, all my symptoms started to subside. Never regret quitting a career that wasn't fulfilling. I worked in IT for decades, and all I had to show for it was regret. Entrepreneurship is where it's at. Engineering jobs are a dime a dozen, but you're here for a greater purpose. Keep up the great work!