Struggling with My Public Accounting Job
Hi everyone, I’m a recent graduate currently working as a staff auditor at one of the top 10 public Accounting firms. As I approach my fourth month on the job, I can’t help but feel deeply unhappy. I’m really not enjoying my work, and the environment is weighing heavily on me.
I understand that it’s busy season, and I was prepared for long hours, but working 65+ hours a week feels excessive. I’ve put in a tremendous amount of effort over the past three months, yet my feedback has been discouraging. I’ve been told that I’m not meeting expectations, despite being thrown into a busy season and having my start date pushed back repeatedly.
I initially considered leaving after my first month, but the thought of repaying $7,000 in sign-on bonuses and Becker study materials holds me back. I’m experiencing significant anxiety daily, and on my one day off each week, I find it hard to motivate myself to leave the house or socialize.
I’m at a crossroads: should I stick it out for nine more months to avoid paying back the bonuses, or is it time to prioritize my mental health and consider quitting? I’d appreciate any advice or insights from those who’ve been in similar situations. Thank you!
One response
I’m really sorry to hear that you’re feeling this way. It’s clear that the situation is taking a significant toll on your mental health. Here are a few thoughts to consider:
Assess Your Options: It might be worth evaluating whether there are other job opportunities available to you that would allow you to leave without paying back the bonuses. Can you work somewhere else while waiting for something better? Sometimes, even looking for other positions can help alleviate some anxiety.
Seek Support: Consider reaching out to a trusted friend, family member, or even a mental health professional to talk about what you’re experiencing. They can provide support and help you process your feelings. It’s important to prioritize your mental well-being above all.
Set Short-Term Goals: If quitting isn’t an immediate option for you and you want to try to stick it out a bit longer, try setting small, achievable goals for yourself each week. This might help you regain some sense of control.
Talk to Someone at Work: If you feel comfortable, consider discussing your situation with a mentor or someone in HR. They may be unaware of how you’re feeling and could provide assistance or potential adjustments to help lighten your load.
Evaluate Your Career Path: Reflect on whether public Accounting is the right path for you. If you discover it’s not, start thinking about what you truly want to pursue. Sometimes just having these thoughts can provide clarity and direction.
Self-Care: Try to incorporate some self-care practices into your routine, even if it’s just small things to help you recharge. Activities like meditation, exercise, or hobbies can be beneficial in managing anxiety.
Ultimately, your health and happiness are crucial. While everyone faces challenges early in their careers, it’s essential to find a path that aligns with your well-being. Whatever you decide, take care of yourself first. You deserve to be in a place that nurtures your growth and makes you feel valued.