‘Buy a MacBook, hire a maid…’: Bengaluru techie’s viral post triggers outrage and a clarification

Bengaluru Tech’s Life Advice Takes 20-Year-Olds By Fire Shobhit Shrivastava, known for his candid views on productivity and personal growth, recently urged young professionals in their 20s to prioritize their investments.

From recommending a MacBook and noise-cancelling headphones to a gym membership and even hiring a maid, her advice spread, but not without backlash.

Days later, Shrivastava found herself defending her words as netizens spoke out about the practicality and privilege behind her suggestions.

On December 29, 2024, Shrivastava posted on X advising young professionals to spend on “productivity-enhancing tools and services” to increase their earning potential. “Early 20s is the time to invest in yourself and increase your earning potential. No investment can ever yield a higher return.”

She listed examples such as buying a MacBook, investing in a gym membership, and hiring help around the house. These investments free up time and energy, allowing young professionals to focus on personal growth and career advancement.

But her post quickly drew criticism, with many users finding the advice tone-deaf for those with tighter budgets or extra responsibilities.

Shrivastava later clarified her position in a follow-up post, explaining that her advice is for developers who have recently started earning a decent salary “It’s reached far and wide, it’s been interpreted in a lot of ways that I didn’t foresee. Even a few news sites have picked it up,” he added. “Obviously, it doesn’t apply to everyone. Does not offer any advice.

The post caused a debate in the comments. While some users responded to her advice, others found it out of touch with the reality of young adulthood. “Only applies if you have no other responsibilities,” one user wrote. “Great advice if you’re earning at least 80-85k (this in itself motivates it),” quipped a third. “What is a MacBook for?”

Shrivastava’s viral post opened a wider discussion about the balance between ambition and practicality in 20s. While her advice emphasizes the importance of self-investment, it also highlights the different experiences of navigating personal growth in an increasingly demanding world.