Currently a Partner at a Big 4 (Strategy). Strong performer, but I’ve hit a plateau where I’m starting to 'mail it in'—a behavior I used to despise. The platform is safe, but the fire is dimming.

I’m evaluating 3 paths:
A) Coast till retirement and consider the next chapter later
B) Go to the "Eat what you kill" shop
C) Join a small shop for high equity / start my own boutique

Has anyone traded the Big 4 'Shield' for the EWYK 'Sword' or the Founder 'Hustle' in their mid 40s?

Work to live don’t live to work.

I would take on some new hobbies outside of work. I have know many ppl who have gone to A&M and all washed out in 2 years. Sure for the few who make it, it’s great, but the risk is real. Same for boutique. Also don’t mess up your pension. I left my firm thinking life is short why not try something new. I don’t completely regret it as I’ve grown a lot, but wouldn’t have left the country club in hindsight. Everyone else I know who has firm hopped wishes they would have stayed, except those who go to industry. Good luck.

U are in such a privileged situation and i recommend that you really make sure u are up for the grind if you want to move. I did that recently at the partner level and I can tell you the amount of sweat and effort that had to be put was quite taxing. I enjoyed rebuilding but it took something out of me as well. So i really recommend to do a clear assessment before any move. Can this adventure you need be done where you are? Don’t underestimate the leverage you have today and it can help you unlock new avenues from this position of strength

A) The Retirement Coast: Stay put, collect the steady check, and prioritize health and family. All sounds solid, but feels like a slow death of ambition.

B) The EWYK Pivot (Alix/ A&M): Double the comp for the same revenue, but the 'always on' culture and lack of brand air-cover is daunting with a family.

C) The Founder Route (new practice for a small shop or a boutique): Maximum risk/return, but I’m 45 and worry about the initial few years and the 24/7 'janitor' phase.

How about option A but you find something new to learn or sell or a new sector approach that gets you excited again? I did that at 52 and every day is now new and exciting.

Moved last year from B4 to A&M. Felt all the same feelings at my prior firm. I’d encourage you to explore and make your decision based on what you experience and feel in your gut. For me, I felt I was on autopilot, and needed the jolt. My goals are significantly lower than what I had before…so balances some of the risks. Has been a pleasant experience thus far. Two year guarantee is great and it’s about all the time we ever gave a Direct Admit at my prior firm anyway…but with lower comp. If it doesn’t work for you, it’s not the end of the world.

How collaborative is the hunting? I worry that EWYK creates an environment that’s less collaborative. At B4 my incentive is to always bring the right person to a situation, even if that’s not me. I am consistently 15-20% ahead of my targets but I realize that a lot of that is due to the network I have at the firm. I don’t want to be a lone wolf that competes with everyone for every dollar.

What “shield” are you talking about? We’re all expendable.

We’re not curing world hunger. I’d recommend a form of A. Look for ways to get a bit more joy out of what you do, and work really hard on interests outside of work. Ultimately, providing a stable platform for your family is Priority #1 and it seems like A provides that.

A) and enjoy life with your family. Find your drive in things outside of work

Bro get into cycling or endurance sports. You’re done with work. Need to find challenges beyond the office

I started my own boutique. Quite a lot of fun. Takes work, but long term great to be your own boss

Appreciate everyone's comments - decided to stick around (A) and find ways to get busy with things outside of work. Have a great one!