From Burnout to Breakthrough

In 2020, I almost walked away from cybersecurity for good.

How did I get to burnout? Simple. I was giving more than I was receiving. I had a manager at the time who cared more about climbing into his next role than leading the team he already had. Anything you needed? Get in line. I was exhausted, undervalued, and done.

I thought the answer was to find a less stressful job. Something that felt peaceful. So I got that new job, but it quickly turned into disappointment. Be careful what you ask for. Not all environments are created equal.

The truth is, I was lying to myself. I told myself that simply switching jobs would bring me peace. I believed a new title, a new desk, or a different set of tasks could erase the burnout. Peace does not come from a change of scenery. It comes from alignment, boundaries, and an environment that values you.

What really woke me up and kept me in the industry were two things: my family and the breaking point I hit with that poor manager. My family reminded me why I do this work. I am a provider, and this is my plan A for now. That manager could not value the humanity in me or work toward a mutual benefit, which showed me I had to draw a line.

Since we could not align, I walked away. That decision gave me the reset I needed. I joined a tech company that let me put my head down, focus, and start learning and growing again. Walking away did not leave me bitter. It left me renewed and determined to climb higher than before.

And that is why I am still here in 2025.

A Lot Has Changed

I am grateful. Humbled too. And honestly, a little amazed that I’m still reaching new heights in this industry.

A lot has changed over the years. I have changed. This blog will change too.

Why I Started Writing

When I launched this blog, my goal was simple: help people break into cybersecurity and make an impact.

Looking back, I will admit I was a little naive. I thought I could hand over a roadmap that anyone could follow straight to success. This industry is not that simple.

The Noise in the Industry

Everywhere you look there are “zero to hero” promises. Six month crash courses. Flashy lifestyle marketing. Overnight success stories.

That was never me.

I wanted to share what actually works: practical, applied methods that have stood the test of time for me and my colleagues. Approaches that build sustainable careers, not quick hits.

The Reckoning in 2025

This year feels different.

Many who rushed in without the tools to stay are burning out. Companies are starting to push back for various reasons including the explosion of GenAI.

In that tension there is room for something better: voices that are honest, grounded, and forward looking.

What You Can Expect Here

That is why I am still here.

This year I will share my thoughts on:

• The state of the security industry
• Life lessons I am learning along the way
• The ever evolving world of GenAI and how I experience it firsthand

Some posts will be technical. Others will be more personal. Either way, the goal is the same: spark conversations, share what I have learned, and help you cut through the noise.

Join Me

So pull up a seat.
Refreshments are in the back.

As I get ready for what comes next, I invite you to sit back, relax, and join me on this journey.