Why My Health Crisis Led Me to Redefine Success After 21 Years at Deloitte

Deepa Purushothaman shares her transformative journey from a successful career at Deloitte to a pivot caused by a severe health challenge. Burnout and serious health issues prompted her to question the true meaning of success.

From Ambitious Beginnings to Exhaustive Heights

In 1999, fresh from Harvard Kennedy School, Deepa started at Deloitte expecting a short-term detour from a planned politics career. However, she stayed and thrived for over two decades, ascending to partner by 34. Despite a high-flying career, the excessive hours took a toll on her health.

Her distinctive qualities weren't necessarily intellectual brilliance but an unparalleled work ethic. Achieving partner status was a significant personal triumph, especially coming from a background with traditional expectations like arranged marriage. Despite success, she often felt she might pursue other ventures later.

The Physical Toll of Success

The demanding work schedule led to escalating health problems: headaches, frequent infections, and eventually, extreme conditions like shingles and Lyme disease, exacerbated by stress.

In 2019, the situation worsened drastically, culminating in an extended medical leave. The health crisis prompted her to reassess life’s priorities, eventually deciding not to return to Deloitte.

A New Chapter Begins

Although leaving Deloitte after 21 years was challenging, Deepa began exploring other avenues, including writing and forming communities for women.

Soon after leaving, she sold her book 'The First, the Few, the Only' and toiled tirelessly over the next years in advocacy and leadership roles. However, her health again forced a reckoning, as the workload mirrored her Deloitte days.

Balancing Passion and Health

Deepa realized the need to rebalance her life. She prioritized spiritual growth and boundaries to ensure sustainable health amidst her busy schedule.

In 2024, she stepped back from some commitments, co-founding a think tank aimed at disrupting traditional work models. Since then, her health has been more stable, illustrating the importance of self-awareness in managing chronic conditions.

Reflecting on the Decision to Leave

Initially, Deepa worried about leaving what felt like her life’s measure of success. Over time, she came to embrace her decision. Her influence now extends beyond a single firm, impacting a broader community.

Her journey illustrates a broader challenge many women face, highlighting systemic issues within demanding careers that often lead to serious health struggles.

Deepa’s story serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between professional ambition and personal well-being, urging a reconsideration of how success is defined and pursued.