This directive goes beyond simple logistics to represent Amazon's overarching strategic goal of preserving its competitive advantage in a market that is extremely dynamic. Being physically close encourages impromptu conversations, speedier decision-making, and a greater sense of purpose, elements that are challenging to replicate virtually. With decades of operational experience, Amazon's leadership understands that real-time idea collisions foster innovation.

I was laid off yesterday.

My leader said: “This has nothing to do with your performance. This decision was not made lightly.”

Yet its so hard to think it’s not based on my performance. They kept people who had less tenure and experience than me (but paid the same)

I asked 100x over my course of tenure there to give me more exposure, to include me in more meetings, to give me more context. From the start, I felt left out. I was set up to fail and not given the opportunity to grow. They often took credit for the things that I BUILT.

Live and learn I guess.