I felt trapped by a successful career at Goldman Sachs. Then, I decided to quit.
Since high school, I had aspired to be an investment banker.
One of the first things I did at Georgetown University was apply to work as a teller for the entirely student run credit union. A lot of credit union alumni went on to Wall Street.
Sure enough, a few years later I landed an internship and later a full time job at Goldman Sachs.
And, I (mostly) loved it.
- A great culture
- Fast track promotions
- Working with really smart people
- Compensation growing at 200% per year
- Was told "sky is the limit" for a career path
But, the problem was... I had an itch.
I had a dream to start a company.
I liked the idea of building something. Creating it from the ground up. Growing a team. Bringing a new product to the world.
I liked the idea of working for myself -- the freedom, autonomy, and radical self-responsibility.
Quitting a high trajectory career at a top investment bank at age 26?
Most of the people said I was CRAZY.
And, when I made a pro/con list, it supported the conclusion that I was crazy.
But, here's the thing...
More than anything, I wanted to follow my dream because I thought it would make me happy.
I saw the chance to try and create something great. And, I refused to let it pass.
I was nervous:
- Would I run out of money?
- Was it a good enough idea?
- Could I actually make it happen?
- Did I have what it takes to be a CEO?
- What if it failed? What would I do then?
- Am I throwing away an amazing career?
And then a wise mentor asked a simple question:
"When you look back on your life in 50-years, will you be happy that you ran after your dream?"
The answer was an instant YES.
In that moment, I found the courage to throw aside the golden handcuffs of a world class job...
And decided to follow my dream.
It happened to turn out well.
We build a great team and they helped us build a $125-million company.
But, even if it hadn't... I would have regretted not trying.
So, here's my advice: life is too short NOT to chase your dream.
There will be 100 reasons to say no. But you only need one good reason to say yes.
In my coaching practice, I help successful achievers get out of their own way and follow their dreams. And, in doing so, unlock a new level of happiness.
______
✍️ What dream are you NOT chasing?
🗨️ DM if you're ready to follow your heart.
🌐 Learn more www.chrisvillar.com
Hi, I'm Chris. I'm a founder turned coach. I help successful high achievers unlock abiding happiness.
Fraud Specialist at Citi
1wCongrats Sara!