At a dramatic crossroads right now. Those of you who left the Big 4 life, what did you do next? Did you spend months thinking you made the wrong decision or were you completely sure before you went ahead and resigned? I'm at the point in my life where I want to call it quits but don't feel sure about the move. This side of me honestly only came up after I became a mom 3 years ago, but my main reason is to spend a little more time at home and live the soft life I wish I had. Am I thinking straight?

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Leaving the Big 4 was a huge decision for me, and honestly, it was a rocky road afterward. I spent months second-guessing myself, wondering if I’d made the right choice, especially when the pressure to find a new role felt overwhelming. Just like you, I wanted to prioritize my family and embrace a different lifestyle, but that transition wasn’t easy. If you’re feeling a strong pull to leave, trust your instincts, it's okay to seek a balance that allows you to enjoy both your career and time at home. Just know it might take some time to find your footing!

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I was hesitant to leave public accounting due to the fast pace of moving up I witnessed in comparison to the slower pace of an industry job. I would say be comfortable in the place you would be entering the industry you are trying to get to. But leaving and being with your family, ditching the long hours and eating dinner with your loved ones is time you’ll never get back. You can always go back, especially if leave in good terms! You won’t regret it!

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Leaving the Big 4 was the best decision I ever made, the stress was unbearable honestly. I moved from Big 4 to RSM. Although the money was incredible, the stress was still there, and it was sometimes worse.

I made the decisions in February to leave financial services all together after a 7.5yr career. I’m now pursuing elementary school substitute teaching and I absolutely love it. The flexibility is amazing and most of the positions are part time so you can build a more balanced lifestyle. Now I’ll admit, the pay is not great($15-$20)/hr but if you have a partner who can support the household financially, I would say take a leap of faith and pursue a softer role and even work part time!


You’ve worked really hard to get where you are and you deserve to have the life you want 😊

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If Big 4 is only the source of someones income or only thing occupied Life.. Maybe regret. But not at all. I have more passive income now

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