I need a bit of perspective. I've had an involuntary sabbatical for a while and recently started in-house. I'm a former BigLaw associate. My current pay is not like BigLaw but, still ok (in the lower 6 figures). I'm a 2nd year in a very specialized practice. I don't have any loans, married, no kids. I recently went home (outside of the US), met up with friends who are making money from real estate, stocks, and have a way more laid-back life. I returned wanting a more enjoyable life (contd..)

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I feel this way. Lately I feel like it’s all a scam. Working so hard and then seeing others having a more laid back life experience where they are actually able to foster their creativity and have other goals/passion altogether is pretty disheartening. I’m diversifying the heck out of my income rn (Airbnb, stocks) and using the money I have to possibly replace my income. Then I want to move in house to have a more predictable lifestyle.

I would say start investing the $ you have now into other things. Everyone I know who has stayed in the practice of law has done it out of necessity or lifestyle creep.

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For what it's worth, I'd rather be happy than prestigious any day.

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100% normal. I think it says a lot about this industry that you even have to ask. The general time expectations in this industry are pretty bad, and if they are not, then the pay is usually low. Only way to escape the rat race is to replace your income with passive income.

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Dunno if it’s normal, but I identify with a lot of this and feel pretty similarly in a lot of ways, especially after leaving the US for a while. I like to think it’s a healthier view, but I also can’t speak to the POC immigrant aspect and any additional influences/concerns that may come along with that.

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For context, I'm not a consumerist. I love traveling, though. I've always been extremely driven, wanting to prove something (to myself) or be someone. But, I no longer feel that (It's kind of freeing). I guess I'm more interested in being able to do something I like while also having time to pursue other interests. I'm also considering investing in real estate overseas and letting it sit. Eventually, I do want to do something of my own and it doesn't have to be law-related. I'm really at peace most days but, some days I wonder if I am robbing myself of my aspirations (I'm a POC and an immigrant). Is this even normal? Am I languishing?

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