A Bengali technician's life advice for 20-year-olds has created a firestorm. Shobhit Srivastava, known for his honesty about productivity and personal growth, urged young professionals in their early 20s to prioritize self-investment.
From suggesting MacBooks and noise-cancelling headphones to gym memberships and hiring a maid, his advice went viral — but not without backlash.
A few days later, Srivastava defended his statement as netizens spoke about the pragmatism and privilege behind his suggestions.
On December 29, 2024, Srivastava posted on X, advising young professionals to spend on “productivity-enhancing tools and services” to boost their earning potential. “Get out of those money-grubbing habits you've inherited,” he wrote. “Early 20s is the time to invest in yourself and increase your earning potential. No investment can give higher returns.
He listed examples like buying a MacBook, investing in a gym membership and hiring someone to do household chores. His argument? These investments free up time and energy, allowing young professionals to focus on personal growth and career advancement.
But his post quickly drew criticism, with many users finding the advice tone deaf for those with tight budgets or extra responsibilities.
Srivastava later clarified his position in a follow-up note, explaining that his advice was intended for programmers who had recently started earning decent salaries. “This is the group I'm most involved with here,” he wrote. “Now this has come a long way, and has been interpreted in many ways that I did not expect. Even a few news sites have picked it up! ” Acknowledging the mixed response, he added, “Obviously, it's not for everyone. No advice! “
The post sparked a debate in the comments. While some users resonated with his advice, others found it detached from the realities of young adults. “Only applies if you have no other responsibilities,” wrote one user. Another said, “Great advice if you're making at least 80-85k (this is pushing it)” and a third said, “What's the MacBook for?” taunted.
Srivastava's viral post has opened up a wider discussion about the balance between ambition and practicality in one's 20s. While his advice highlights the importance of self-investment, it also underscores the varied experiences of navigating personal growth in an increasingly demanding world.