| F-You skills are not technical in nature (above a certain level of competence and willingness to work that most people in tech jobs have). They are people skills and a basic safety net. For me they seem to be: 1. Having an emergency fund and plan that can last you 6-9 months if you get fired or burnt out. Think about your expenses and get rid of ones that you don't want. Plan out if you'd need to downsize some things or make changes. Having a good buffer will help you be less stressed out if your work gets really shitty (you can quit) or if you get fired (you won't be wondering how to pay rent while interviewing). 2. Being generally pleasant at work. 3. Don't spread stress and bad feelings. If you are stressed out and someone asks for help, help them or tell them when you can in the future in a positive way. Don't complain about things over and over. 4. Keep loosely in touch with people you got along with at jobs, you might be able to help each other in the future. 5. Be willing to grind to get a job if your network can't help you in the future. Start practicing interview questions and applying when you notice a lot of frustration in a job, not just when have 100% decided to leave. This will get you prepared and also can help you feel agency that might make you realize you don't want to leave the job. 6. Work on your psychology to gain confidence. You deserve to have a decent life as much as anyone. Your work or pay isn't a reflection of your value, but if you enjoy the work, that's great, it doesn't always happen. |