Torn between staying and leaving

Based on the most helpful WSO content, many professionals in your position have faced similar dilemmas. Here are some insights from those who have walked this path:

1. Level When They Quit:

   • Many left at the Associate or VP level, often after 2-3 years in these roles. Some stayed longer, but burnout or lack of fulfillment often became the tipping point.

2. Reasons for Leaving:

   • Internal Factors:
     • Burnout and loss of interest in the work were common themes. As one user noted, the repetitive nature of deals and the lack of personal fulfillment made them question their long-term goals.
     • The unpredictability and demanding hours, even in teams with good culture, often became unsustainable over time.
     • A desire for more control over their life and schedule was a significant motivator.
   • External Opportunities:
     • Some left because they found opportunities that aligned better with their personal interests or long-term goals, such as roles in private equity, hedge funds, corporate finance, or even entrepreneurial ventures.
     • Others transitioned to industries with better work-life balance, even if it meant a pay cut, as they valued time and flexibility over compensation.

3. Key Considerations Before Leaving:

   • Job Security vs. Risk: Many echoed your sentiment about the trade-offs. Leaving a stable, well-paying role for something less certain can be daunting.
   • Passion and Fulfillment: Those who left often emphasized the importance of pursuing roles that felt meaningful or exciting, even if it meant stepping into the unknown.
   • Timing: Some suggested that if you’re considering a switch, it’s better to do it earlier in your career rather than later, as the opportunity cost increases with seniority.

4. Advice for You:

   • Reflect on what you value most—whether it’s stability, compensation, or personal fulfillment.
   • Consider exploring opportunities while staying in your current role. Networking and informational interviews can help you gauge what’s out there without committing to a move.
   • If you’re unsure about leaving, some professionals have taken sabbaticals or short breaks to reassess their priorities before making a decision.

Ultimately, the decision to stay or leave is deeply personal. As one WSO user put it, "The best path is forward—figure out what you’ve learned from your experience and use that to shape your next steps."

Sources: Exit as a VP because lost interest, Anyone Regret Quitting their Investment Banking Job?, Questions about VP/D/MD levels at investment banks, A Guide for Switching From Commercial Banking to Investment Banking, Quit IB after a month