Am I stupid for not accepting my IB offer?

Current CB analyst who loves the WLB, money compared to IB is shit, however relatively speaking, it’s still good and I’m bringing home 6 figures. Interviewed at several places, and have received an offer for a CB analyst role at another bank and an IB offer at MM IB. My friends are telling me I’m stupid for leaning towards the CB offer, and that I’m leaving money on the table, however I have ZERO interest in IB and the hours you people work. Ultimately, in the grand scheme of things, am I in the wrong/shooting myself in the foot for pursuing CB?

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There are a few variables to consider here imo. 

First, if you know deep down in your heart that you never want to do IB/MF PE/MM HF, then you are not wrong. Optimizing for what you like is how to live a healthy, fulfilled life. 

However, you must think about how often you change your mind on big issues. Are you sure you will always feel this way? If not, you might want to consider IB. However, if you do choose IB, go into it with a positive attitude and a good spirit. Being pissed off from the start is a fast-track to hell. 

 

It’s simple. The right answer is subjective.

We all have different priorities in different points of time in our lives. But the main thing about advice is, anyone can give it, only you have to live through and face the consequences.

So, if you don’t prioritize IB experience and want the balanced life with hobbies, friends, a girlfriend, and family. Then kudos to you.

As long as you can decently provide and are happy with how you spend your time, no amount of differential money coming from the sacrifice of your health and those relationships will be worth it.

So, listen to all advice but do what is right for you. IB is not for everyone, and it applies to all fields. If everyone becomes a doctor, what’s the point?

But if you think you might regret not trying at some point, then take the IB, and can always lateral later to corporate banking. Otherwise, do what’s right for you and don’t look back.

 

Hey- was at a similar point to you as I had a CB and IB offers at BBs and ended up taking CB. Im someone who values my spare time alot and it sounds like you are too. You will earn more than enough while having some time to enjoy it too!

As for career trajectory really you have to ask yourself if you are dead-set on PE/HF as a career. If the answer is not a definite yes, as was the case for me, there really isn’t any point. Worst case, you van easily move to IB after a year or two if you change your mind

Btw not at all shitting on the IB grind, everyone’s reasons are different:)

 

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