Throwaway for obvious reasons. I am a second year in a litigation practice at a V10 (not that the ranking matters for the following). I like the job, but it has drained me out of everything else. I work constantly, barely have any weekends and have no time to date or see friends.
I am unequivocally torn between continuing for a couple of years or leaving for a (likely) lesser paid job, but with a better WLB: on the one hand, I do not want to continue wasting my youth as doing so is an inevitable recipe for regrets. I miss occasionally watching movies, reading books, meeting interesting people and so forth. On the other, short-termism rarely pays off and perhaps it is best to continue to suck it up until I gain sufficient / more experience; although, is there ever a right time? I like working hard, being challenged and the intellectual stimulation, but I am objectively saddened by how many sunshines and everyday glimpses of happiness I have missed, and am missing, out on. There are only so many fire drills that can be extinguished. I guess I should not hope for a clear answer, as I doubt there is any, but would welcome any advice. Thanks.