Burnout

Navigating burnout in investment banking is a common challenge, and it's clear you're feeling the weight of it heavily. Based on insights from Wall Street Oasis, here are some strategies that others in your position have found helpful:

1. Prioritize Self-Care: It's crucial to take care of your physical and mental health. This includes ensuring you get enough sleep, eat well, and engage in physical activity. Even short breaks for a walk or quick exercise can make a difference.

2. Set Boundaries: As difficult as it may seem, setting boundaries for work and personal time can help. Communicate with your team about your availability and try to stick to it as much as possible. It's important to have time where you are completely disconnected from work.

3. Efficiency Improvements: Look for ways to improve your efficiency in tasks. This could involve automating repetitive tasks, improving your Excel skills, or finding faster ways to complete your models. The less time you spend on each task, the more time you have for rest.

4. Seek Support: Talk to mentors, colleagues, or a professional counselor about what you're going through. Sometimes, just having someone listen can be incredibly relieving. They might also offer valuable advice or coping strategies.

5. Consider Your Options: If the situation doesn't improve, it might be worth considering other opportunities. Many have transitioned from investment banking to roles in private equity, corporate strategy, or other areas that might offer a better work-life balance. Remember, your skills are highly transferable and valued in many industries.

6. Remember Your Worth: It's easy to tie your self-worth to your job performance, especially in high-pressure environments like investment banking. However, remember that you are more than your job. Your health and happiness are paramount.

7. Plan for Downtime: Even if it's just a few hours on the weekend, make plans to do something you enjoy that's not work-related. This can help recharge your batteries and give you something to look forward to.

Remember, many have been in your shoes and have found ways to cope or move on to roles that better suit their needs. It's okay to feel overwhelmed, but it's also important to take steps to address your burnout and consider what's best for your long-term health and career satisfaction.

Sources: How do investment bankers handle long hours?, Midlevel Burnout, Anyone Deal w/ Extended Burn-Out?, Life Hacks during WFH | How do you avoid burnout?, Anyone else fed up with the banking/finance industy?