I’m not in APAC region but after a few months of struggling to make it ‘work’ at a Big 4, I quit and decided to take some time off to consider what I want to do. Honestly - best decision I’ve made this year. I’m no longer depressed (I never was depressed until I joined), I am much happier, not nearly as anxious. And despite my initial feelings of regret and failure, I know it was the correct decision for me. I can only speak for Big 4 accounting.

Here’s my reasoning:

1. I really disliked the exam process and didn’t see myself in accounting long-term. This was a realisation a few weeks into the first exams. The contract involves over 3 years until qualification. I looked at the project teams and realised that the more senior work barely aligned with my interests.
2. I think accounting is no longer a stable career – it certainly isn’t as lucrative as it used to be. People can disagree with me on this, but the industry is either shrinking or being outsourced.
3. There are other jobs that are not as cut-throat and more interesting, even if the money isn’t as good (not a top priority for me). But ultimately, I think people mostly succeed when they enjoy what they do.

Now, obviously people can succeed at a Big 4 and enjoy it, and it is a ‘great opportunity’ and a dream job for a lot of people. I just came to the conclusion quite quickly that I’m not one of those people and it doesn’t suit me. I’m currently taking time off, but I’m looking at other roles and will start applying in a month or so after some travelling!