Feeling nervous and vulnerable after experiencing two layoffs, one in 2022 and another in 2026. Both times, I ended up with higher salaries at my new jobs, going from 440K to 520K and then from 545K to 610K. However, I was out of work for 2 to 3 months each time, but thankfully, severance packages helped bridge the gap. As an experienced software engineer in Silicon Valley, I’ve faced a high failure rate in job offers, only receiving 2 offers out of 9 to 10 interviews during each job search. I’m turning 50 next month, and my wife has faced her own struggles, losing her job every year since 2022 and not staying in one for more than 8 months due to serious health complications. With the added pressure of our children’s college expenses, I had sleepless nights for 3 months earlier this year, and I still find it hard to rest despite having an income coming in. These layoffs have really shaken my trust in companies and their leaders, and I find it difficult to see the positives in any situation now.