Hot take: if you genuinely hate the hours in IB, maybe you just don’t love the game enough.
I’m tired of people acting like working until 2am is some kind of human rights violation. You’re getting paid absurd money in your 20s to work on billion-dollar transactions alongside some of the smartest people in the world. That’s a privilege, not oppression.
I LOVE the feeling of leaving the office at 3am knowing we turned comments in before the client woke up. I LOVE seeing normal people complain about their 9-5 while I’m building actual resilience. I LOVE the adrenaline of a live deal, the pressure, the chaos, the impossible turnaround times. That’s what separates us from average people.
You think Kobe complained about jump shots at midnight? You think Navy SEALs cry because they’re tired? Exactly.
The long hours aren’t a bug - they are the point. The grind IS the culture. Every late night is another rep while everyone else is asleep. I don’t want “work-life balance” - I want to be undeniable.
Some of you want analyst pay with a therapist schedule. Wrong industry.
Bring on the comments from the weak-minded.
Based on the most discussed WSO threads, your perspective aligns with a certain mindset prevalent in investment banking, where the grind and long hours are seen as a badge of honor. Many professionals in the industry echo similar sentiments, emphasizing the adrenaline, resilience, and sense of accomplishment that come with working on high-stakes deals. However, it's worth noting that not everyone shares this view.
Some threads highlight the toll these hours can take on mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. While the financial rewards and career opportunities are undeniable, others argue that the "grind culture" isn't sustainable for everyone and that prioritizing balance doesn't necessarily equate to weakness.
Ultimately, the industry thrives on diverse mindsets—those who embrace the grind and those who seek a more balanced approach. Both perspectives contribute to the dynamic nature of investment banking.
Sources: Was it worth it?, Investment Banking Hours - What to Expect?, Why work up to MD in Investment Banking?, A Guide for Switching From Commercial Banking to Investment Banking, The Allure of Investment Banking
Bump
average Jefferies hire
Cheers Chat GPT
Found a 9-5 enjoyer
Says the person who has never even worked in banking before
Sure, Karoshi-san.
You took the words right out of my mouth
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