Yahoo Lifestyle Google Exec's Poignant Resignation Memo Goes Viral
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An inspiring essay by a Google executive has gone viral thanks to its advice on putting your family first. Chief Financial Officer of Google Patrick Pichette retired from the company after seven years this week, sharing a touching and thought-provoking memo on Google+ detailing his reasons for leaving the company.
The essay: “After nearly seven years as CFO, I will be retiring from Google to spend more time with my family.”
While this is an explanation we are hearing more and more often, what makes Pichette’s statement unique is how he offers a detailed insight into the decision-making process, remembering a trip to Africa with his wife as the catalyst for the decision.
“Looking at the sunrise on the top of Africa – Mt Kilimanjaro…[my wife] asked the killer question: 'So when is it going to be time? Our time? My time?' The question just hung there in the cold morning African air.”
Larry Page, Google co-founder and CEO wrote in a response that it was “a most unconventional leaving notice from a most unconventional CFO” and that the notice was one “well worth reading – it will warm your heart.”
“In the end, life is wonderful, but nonetheless a series of trade offs, especially between business/professional endeavours and family/community,” Pichette said in the memo. "And thankfully, I feel I’m at a point in my life where I no longer have to make such tough decisions anymore. And for that I am truly grateful. Carpe Diem.”
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