Simon

“I was practising as a doctor working in emergency medicine, but I simply was not happy. I was feeling something like burnout and I didn’t want that for the rest of my life.

The decision to stop being a doctor was very easy. When I said it out loud it felt like a weight had lifted, but the fear lay in the unknown. I have always had an aptitude for analysis, so accounting appealed to me. What really convinced me was chatting to my friend and my sister-in-law, they are both accountants but had gone two different ways in the profession. I learned from them that the avenues inside accountancy are vast and there is scope for working abroad, that decided it.

I had seen PKF Francis Clark had supported other trainees who had changed careers and they also promoted a good work-life balance, so I felt I would do well there. The firm was my number one choice and thanks to my amazing team it has been a seamless transition. I feel at home here.

I’m lucky to have a very supportive wife who actively encouraged me to change careers for the sake of my wellbeing. It was obviously a short-term financial hit but it has already been worth it for my long term happiness, plus our dog loves it when I work from home! My family have been amazing, I really appreciate their acceptance and support for my wish to tear my life apart and start again.”