OW Work/Life Balance and lifestyle

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights into work/life balance and lifestyle in consulting, which might be relevant to your query about OW (Oliver Wyman):

1. Work Hours:

   • Consulting work hours can be highly variable. For example, one ex-McKinsey consultant mentioned that their worst study involved 80 hours a week for 6 weeks, while their best study was under 40 hours a week.
   • Generally, you can expect to spend Monday through Thursday away from home at junior levels.

2. Weekdays and Weekends:

   • Weekdays are typically long, with some consultants mentioning being in the office until late at night.
   • Weekends can be more relaxed, but this depends on the project and deadlines. Some consultants manage to keep weekends free, while others might need to work occasionally.

3. Work-Life Separation:

   • The separation between work life and personal life can be challenging. One consultant noted that despite phone calls and Skype sessions, being away from home frequently can strain personal relationships.
   • Another user mentioned that their weekdays involve a routine of gym in the morning, work all day, and some relaxing activity at night to decompress.

4. Fatigue and Enjoyment:

   • The job can be tiring, especially with long hours and travel. However, some find the work rewarding and the learning experience valuable.
   • It's important to find a balance that works for you, as one user suggested, by engaging in activities that help you relax and recharge during your free time.

5. Personal Stories and Advice:

   • One user shared that their weekdays are not very exciting but they make an effort to meet friends for breakfast or lunch once a week. Weekends are more enjoyable, spent with friends, family, or engaging in outdoor activities.

In summary, while consulting can be demanding with long hours and frequent travel, it also offers valuable learning experiences and career progression opportunities. Finding a personal balance and engaging in activities that help you relax can make the lifestyle more manageable.

Sources: Work/Life Balance - Hours, Why are we Obsessed with "Work/Life Balance"?, Ex-McKinsey Consultant Here Answering Questions, Best work life balance jobs in RE?, Why are we Obsessed with "Work/Life Balance"?