Considering leaving high paying job for passion.. thoughts?

Hey guys I was wondering if any of you have left private equity, investment banking, or real estate to go back to something you are passionate in? (Yes I know for many of you this is your passion)

Currently I am a first year guy at a boutique REPE firm making decent money for my age. I am 22 and just graduated this May from a Non-Target. When I was in school, I was working in both golf and my finance internships. While I am very fortunate to have this job, part of me misses working in the Golf industry. All I can ever think about while I'm at work is being at the golf course. Every weekend I play at least one round and hopefully two rounds of golf. As I've gotten better I have gotten addicted. Finally around the 11 - 13 handicap range. I certainly wouldn't go back to working in the cart barn because that would be an insane pay cut. But I'm strongly considering going back to work in corporate golf, work for PGA, or work towards a potential "Director of Golf" position someday. My dream job is owning/managing a top-tier golf course / country club and I think it is very possible.

Sitting here at a desk all day is really making me miss being outside in the beautiful west coast weather. I miss engaging with people daily (who aren't miserable clients). I enjoy modeling and underwriting deals, but it just isn't the same enjoyment of engaging with people who are having a great time outdoors. Being realistic, leaving this position would be a total ego check but maybe that's what I need. Recently, I became an uncle (which is actually awesome) and various family-members have died so it has really made me question what is important in life. I've always wanted to make a lot of money to live the life I want to live, but **are these young grind years worth it? **

Have any of you or do you know of anyone who have left a very lucrative industry to take a pay cut in something they love? (I doubt there will be many because those who did leave probably aren't on this site anymore)

4 Comments
 
Most Helpful

I think there are plenty of people who do this, but not at 22. Sounds like you have a really great job and a ton of opportunity ahead of you. I understand wanting to go after a passion but would encourage you to give some serious, serious thought to leaving PE within a year, or even 5.

This type of transition is usually made once someone is pretty comfortable and has established themselves professionally. Maybe you already are comfortable financially and hence it's a realistic option in your mind. You're only 22, I'm guessing without many personal responsibilities (dependents, mortgage, etc.). My hope would be you still have plenty of time to play golf despite having a busy work schedule.

With that said, it's your life and you need to be happy with it. Just my $0.02

 

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