Looking for some therapy, frankly. Somehow I've tied my self worth to my salary over the years. About to take a pay cut and having trouble accepting it, though I know extra time and overall balance will be worth it. Help!

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After starting big law, thinking I’d go for partner, i left big law with a pay cut a couple of months ago. I believe I’m being paid more per hour for less stress, and I’m not expected to be on call outside of normal business hours. My health, sleep and general living habits have already improved. My mood and interactions with family have improved. The “scary” part is, you can no longer blame all of your problems on your big law job and you have to figure out how you want to meaningfully spend your time outside of work, whether it’s with an SO, friends, family, hobby etc. While I was in biglaw, I felt like I was worth more than what they were paying (salary in exchange for me to deprioritize literally everything else in my life). I think I’m being fairly compensated now, despite the pay cut. I did stay in big law until my student debt was paid off, so I do get the pressures to make that money while you can. Your identity is more than your job. Your self worth is more than your salary.

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I love this response. Really hits home as someone who is currently in biglaw, have always thought I’d go for partner, but am now feeling the burnout. Personal life and health are suffering and have been for awhile. Might need to reconsider things.

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Go to actual therapy. Or start a spiritual practice.

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Where are you located?

Struggling with this right now! About to take an enormous pay cut and it is scary!

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