By TOI Education

Copyright indiatimes

For years, the United States has been a magnet for ambitious Indian professionals seeking better career opportunities and a higher standard of living. But the reality, for some, turns out to be more complex.One Reddit user shared their journey of leaving the US after more than a decade. They moved to the US in 2008, right in the middle of the global recession, to pursue a master’s degree. Despite skepticism from peers and family, they landed a job before graduation and secured an H-1B visa in 2010. Over the next 11 years, they climbed the corporate ladder at a Big 4 firm, handling increasingly complex projects.But by 2020, the situation had changed. During the pandemic, they were managing four major projects simultaneously, often working late nights, while being the sole earner in the family as their spouse had just finished her own MS. “I was completely burnt out,” they wrote. “It felt like life was running me, not the other way around.”The turning point: Deciding to move backThanksgiving 2020 became a moment of clarity. They decided it was time to prioritise health, family, and happiness over corporate titles. With full support from their spouse, they made the bold decision to resign, sell their US home, and move back to India with around $650,000–$700,000 in savings.The first few months back were not all smooth sailing. Days were spent playing video games, catching up with worried family, and adjusting to life at a slower pace. But soon, they reached out to an old professional contact, which led to a consulting opportunity. That project grew quickly and eventually became a thriving consulting business.Life back home: Doubling wealth and gaining happinessFour years later, the move has paid off in more ways than one. The Reddit user has doubled their net worth to $1.4 million, employs 10 people in their consulting firm, and runs a few passive businesses — including a salon and a massage equipment venture. They live in a Tier-2 city near family, enjoying a lifestyle that balances work, leisure, and personal relationships.“Life is good,” they said. “I’m happier than I’ve been in years, and I finally feel in control of my time and energy.”Why professionals are coming backThere are several reasons why Indian professionals are coming back from the US.Rising visa costs are one. H1B fees have gone up, and the rules are stricter, making it harder and more expensive to stay long-term.Work and lifestyle pressures also matter. Long hours, high stress, and burnout, especially during the pandemic, have made many rethink what they want from life.Family is another factor. Being close to parents, siblings, and extended family is important. Lower living costs in India also make daily life easier.Entrepreneurship is attracting many too. India’s growing economy is creating chances for small businesses, consultancies, and new ventures.It’s not just the big cities. Places beyond Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore are becoming popular. Lower costs, new opportunities, and a slower pace make it easier to balance work and personal life.Adjusting backMoving back to India can be exciting for professionals living away from home. However, it isn’t always easy. Adjusting to Indian work culture, business practices, and client expectations is quite different from what it is in the US.Still, people end up adapting quicker than they expect. The key to adjusting back is patience. Building a network, understanding the local ways, and accommodating the expectations takes time. But once settled, many returnees from the US find that opportunities are even better than what they imagined in India.A thoughtful choiceReturning to India isn’t just about visa problems or burnout. Experts say it reflects a shift in what professionals value. Career growth, family, lifestyle, and starting a business can be just as important as a high-paying US job.For many, coming home is a conscious decision. It offers a chance to balance work, family, and personal life while taking advantage of India’s fast-growing economy.One returnee summed it up simply: “India is moving fast. With some savings and patience, you can rebuild your career, grow your wealth, and be near family. The challenges fade over time.”Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!