Medical doctor with PhD resigns to work as delivery driver and bar singer

Liu Zihan, a 31-year-old medical doctor with a PhD from the University of Macau, has resigned from her position at a top-tier hospital in Zhuhai to pursue a non-traditional lifestyle. After completing her psychiatric residency training and postdoctoral research, Liu decided to leave her stable career due to the repetitive and monotonous nature of hospital work.

Since resigning in February, Liu has engaged in various part-time roles, including working at a breakfast shop, performing as a singer in bars, and working as a food delivery driver. She noted that delivery work provides a sense of immediate satisfaction and goal-oriented achievement.

Liu described her previous life as being driven by “meritocracy,” where she constantly sought to meet external expectations, leading to anxiety and low moods. She stated that while her academic credentials provide income and recognition, they do not guarantee a fulfilling life. Her decision has sparked widespread online discussion regarding career paths, the meaning of success, and the pursuit of personal happiness over social status.