Releasing music?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights and advice for your situation:

1. Balancing Work and Passion Projects: It's great that you're pursuing a creative outlet like music. Many professionals find that having a passion project helps maintain mental health and balance. However, it's crucial to ensure that your music endeavors don't interfere with your primary job responsibilities. Keep your work performance strong to avoid drawing unnecessary attention to your side project.

2. Not Reporting Non-Profitable Outside Business Activities (OBA): If your music project is not generating income, it may not technically qualify as an OBA that needs to be reported, depending on your firm's policies. However, you should carefully review your employment contract or compliance guidelines to confirm this. Some firms require disclosure of any outside activities, regardless of profitability.

3. Discretion is Key: If you're concerned about your MD's reaction, it's wise to keep your music project low-profile at work. Avoid discussing it openly with colleagues or on platforms where your professional network might see it. Focus on marketing your music in spaces unrelated to your professional life.

4. Time Management: Ensure that your music pursuits don't compromise your work performance. Use your free time effectively, and avoid letting your passion project bleed into work hours. This will help you maintain a strong reputation at your firm.

5. Long-Term Perspective: If your music starts gaining traction and becomes profitable, you may need to revisit the OBA reporting requirements. At that point, you can assess whether it's worth disclosing or even transitioning to music full-time if it aligns with your goals.

Remember, many professionals have successfully balanced demanding careers with creative pursuits. The key is to stay organized, maintain strong performance at work, and be mindful of your firm's policies. Good luck with your music journey!

Sources: 5 years ago, I was fired from Oliver Wyman. This is what I learned from it., IB SA No Offer -> Major Entertainment Strategy + Perspectives on Recovering from Failure, First years- get your stuff together, Advice I give to my incoming analysts, I was fired today, don't know what to do....