This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Tyler Mumford , a 29-year-old business owner in Provo, Utah. It has been edited for length and clarity. I worked in tech sales for about four years, mainly selling software and AI solutions to restaurant companies. I did well and consistently hit my quotas, but I didn't have control over my future. Even after a strong quarter, management would suddenly announce changes, and I never had a say in the matter. That's just how big companies work.