Why I Quit My Job in Finance - Felix Prehn's Journey to Financial Independence

I QUIT: Why I Left My Job in Finance

Felix Prehn, founder of Goat Academy, shares his journey from working in finance to achieving financial independence. This blog post explores the reasons behind his decision and provides a practical guide for those considering a significant life change.

The Moment I Knew I Had to Quit

My journey in finance began at the International Finance Center, an 88-story skyscraper that symbolized my dream job. Despite the great pay, supportive colleagues, and the learning opportunities, something was missing.

The Test: Should You Make a Change?

To determine whether you need a drastic change in your life, apply this simple test:

1. End-of-Week Reflection: On Friday, do you feel proud of what you've achieved during the week?
2. Monday Morning Check: Are you excited to get up and go to work?

If the answer to either of these questions is "no," it might be time for a change.

Why I Quit

For me, the turning point was realizing the bank required me to be present for 12-14 hours a day, even though I could complete my work in 6 hours. The expectation to sacrifice all my time and freedom just to appear dedicated didn't align with my values.

Building a Second Income Stream

Before making a big change, it's crucial to build a second income stream. This step is especially important if you have financial responsibilities. Here are some steps to consider:

1. Identify Opportunities: Explore various ways to generate income. For example, I turned to trading.
2. Set Clear Goals: Establish what you want to achieve. This could be financial freedom, more personal time, or pursuing a passion.
3. Make a Hate List: Write down everything you dislike about your current situation. Then, write the opposite of each item to understand what you truly want.

Staying Motivated

Finding motivation can be challenging. It helps to focus on something you are passionate about. For me, it was the idea of creating a food forest on my own piece of land. Identify your own motivating goal that excites you.

The Journey to Freedom

Achieving financial independence doesn't happen overnight. It requires careful planning and consistent effort. Here’s how I did it:

1. Learn and Practice: Dedicate time to learning new skills and practicing them. For instance, I spent time learning and mastering trading.
2. Manage Time Wisely: Utilize mornings, evenings, and weekends to build your new venture.
3. Gradual Transition: Start by balancing your current job with your side hustle until you’re ready to make a full transition.

Final Thoughts

Quitting a secure job can be daunting, but the freedom and satisfaction that come with following your passion are worth it. Watching others leave the same building I once did, I am reminded of how fortunate I am to have made this change.

If you're considering a similar path, start by assessing your current satisfaction and exploring new opportunities. Remember, building a second income stream before making the leap is essential. With dedication and the right strategy, you can create a life you love.