I left tech about 20 years ago and moved into marketing. At the time, I facing the classic individual contributor (architect) vs management track dilemma. I’d chosen the latter and pretty much immediately regretted it. However, rather than switching back to a more hands on tech role, I jumped even harder into the world of marketing. I am entrepreneurial by nature and it was a lot of fun.

I’ve stayed tech-adjacent the whole time though. So, despite some very exciting times and decent compensation, I’ve always wondered what might have happened if I flipped back to tech or even jumped way outside the world of regular business entirely.

In any case, I can’t say I regret the change. I made it for the right choices. As you work your way through this decision, think about where you want to be in 20-30 years. Really try to see the day to day life you are living. What gets you excited in that future state? If you can see that, then go explore it.

From what you’ve said it sounds like you have a great opportunity to explore something new. Just remember that sometimes there’s no road back… and that’s 100% ok.