Stressed and anxious almost all the time on the job

Based on the most helpful WSO content, your feelings of stress and anxiety are not uncommon in the industry. Investment banking is notorious for its high-pressure environment, tight deadlines, and the constant juggling of multiple tasks. Here are some key insights and advice to help you navigate this:

1. Understanding the Stress at Different Levels

• Junior Level Stress: As a junior, the stress is often immediate and task-oriented. You’re dealing with tight deadlines, unclear instructions, and the pressure to deliver perfect work. Seniors may underestimate the time required for tasks, leading to late nights and canceled plans.
• Senior Level Stress: While the nature of stress changes as you progress, it doesn’t necessarily decrease. Seniors face a "simmering" stress due to the responsibility of bringing in business, managing teams, and ensuring the company’s growth. The pressure to deliver results is constant, and the stakes are higher.

2. Is It Worth Sticking It Out?

• Perspective on Career Goals: If your ultimate goal is to stay in investment banking or transition to a related field like private equity, the experience and skills you gain can be invaluable. However, if the stress is taking a toll on your mental and physical health, it’s worth reevaluating your priorities.
• Long-Term Health Considerations: Chronic stress can lead to serious health issues, including anxiety disorders and burnout. As one WSO user pointed out, at some point, health becomes the primary concern. Don’t let it reach a breaking point.

3. Practical Steps to Manage Stress

• Set Boundaries: Learn to push back on requests when your plate is full. Communicate your workload and ask seniors to prioritize tasks. It’s better to deliver quality work on fewer tasks than to mess up due to overcommitment.
• Focus on Mental Health: Consider seeing a therapist or counselor to work through your anxiety. Books like How to Stop Worrying and Start Living by Dale Carnegie can also provide helpful strategies.
• Adopt Healthy Habits: Prioritize sleep, limit caffeine, and maintain a consistent routine. Exercise and social activities can also help alleviate stress.
• Big Picture Thinking: Reflect on the worst-case scenario. If the job is making you miserable, would you be happier in a different role or industry? Sometimes, stepping away can provide clarity and perspective.

4. Final Thoughts

• The industry is demanding, and while some thrive in this environment, it’s not for everyone. If you’re constantly unhappy and anxious, it’s worth considering whether this aligns with your long-term goals and values. Remember, there’s more to life than work, and your well-being should always come first.

If you decide to stick it out, focus on building resilience and finding ways to manage the stress. If not, there are plenty of other fulfilling career paths that may better suit your personality and lifestyle.

Sources: What do you do when you're overworked? My anxiety is up the roof, Question for senior bankers - does it get more or less stressful as you progress?, What exactly makes IB so stressful? Is your MD throwing tens of pitches at you at all times?, How can we do better?, Let's Talk About Anxiety