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Former Tech Worker Finds Fulfillment as Stay-at-Home Dad
The author shares his journey from quitting his tech job to embracing the unpaid, invisible labor of being a caretaker.
Mar. 3, 2026 at 8:47am
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After years working in the tech industry, the author felt unfulfilled and decided to quit his job. He initially pursued his passion for photography, but soon found himself becoming a stay-at-home dad when his wife became the breadwinner. The author discusses the challenges of adjusting to this new role, including dealing with postpartum depression and an identity crisis, but also the fulfillment he's found in caring for his family.
Why it matters
This story highlights the growing trend of fathers taking on more caretaking responsibilities, especially as traditional gender roles continue to evolve. It provides insight into the emotional and psychological journey of a man who leaves the traditional workforce to become a stay-at-home parent, challenging societal expectations and norms.
The details
The author, Zachary Fox, met his wife Liv while working at a tech startup in San Francisco. After years in the industry, he felt unfulfilled and decided to quit his job to pursue his passion for photography. However, along the way, he also became a stay-at-home dad when his wife became the primary breadwinner. The author discusses the challenges of adjusting to this new role, including dealing with postpartum depression and an identity crisis, as well as the fulfillment he's found in caring for his family.
- The author quit his tech job several years ago.
- The author's son was born in early 2024.
- The author became the primary caretaker of his son when his wife's maternity leave expired.
The players
Zachary Fox
The author, a former tech worker who is now a stay-at-home dad.
Liv
The author's wife, who is the primary breadwinner for the family.
What they’re saying
“No amount of caretaking practice could properly prepare me for the birth of our son in early 2024. He was born, and everything changed.”
— Zachary Fox
“Being a stay-at-home dad means showing up for my family, even when it's boring, frustrating, or painful. It's watching "Cars" for the fourth time on a sick day. It's sacrificing the perfect photo because my son is about to lick a garbage can. It's maintaining composure while he screams and hits me in the face. My increased capacity for love and patience makes me a better human.”
— Zachary Fox
What’s next
The author plans to continue focusing on finding his identity and fulfillment as a stay-at-home dad, while also supporting his wife's career and graduate school pursuits.
The takeaway
This story highlights the evolving role of fathers in the modern family, challenging traditional gender norms and showcasing the emotional and psychological journey of a man who leaves the traditional workforce to become a primary caretaker. It serves as an inspiring example of how embracing unpaid, invisible labor can lead to personal growth and fulfillment.
