I quit my job at TikTok at age 30 to travel. There was no way I was going to stay — the freedom is worth it.
Business Insider
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Nerine Mak, a former senior commercial counsel at TikTok, left her high-powered job at age 30 to embark on a global adventure traveling by motorbike with her partner. After spending four years at TikTok, where she contributed to the launch of significant projects like TikTok Shop in Indonesia, she decided to pursue a life of exploration and personal growth. Mak’s journey reflects a growing trend among professionals redefining success by prioritizing freedom and experiences over traditional career paths.
Mak’s path began with a legal degree shaped by her early experiences mediating conflicts as the eldest of five siblings. She worked at prominent companies like Ernst & Young and Sephora before joining TikTok in 2019, drawn by ByteDance’s innovative tech ecosystem. At TikTok, she thrived in a dynamic, fast-paced environment that offered unique challenges but also required rigorous attention to detail and adaptability. Her role involved supporting the company’s revenue-generating efforts across Southeast Asia and Oceania, including the successful launch of TikTok Shop, which became a global blueprint.
The decision to leave was not impulsive; Mak had envisioned this lifestyle since her early 20s. Inspired by a desire for self-discovery and life lessons beyond traditional career advancement, she explored van life before settling on motorbike travel with her partner. Their journey has taken them across Asia, Europe, and Africa, blending adventure with professional opportunities, such as ad hoc legal work for small businesses.
Mak’s story resonates with anyone contemplating a shift from conventional career norms to pursue passions and new experiences. Her experience highlights the importance of aligning personal values with professional choices, emphasizing that success can be redefined in terms of fulfillment and freedom rather than just career milestones. For business readers, her narrative underscores the value of flexibility, resilience, and leveraging skills like legal expertise in diverse contexts.
Ultimately, Mak’s journey is a testament to the power of following one’s passions, even when it means leaving behind a promising career. By embracing uncertainty and pursuing life-changing experiences, she inspires others to consider what truly matters in their own lives and careers.
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Originally published on Business Insider on 2/24/2026