[niggy]

I used to like my firm, or my office a lot, the environment, the people I worked with, although hours are long, but they made my life more manageable. Last year I applied internal transfer and relocated to another office, but the new office culture are so different from my original office, and I also had a new baby I need to handle. However, this new office are growing so much that we have to always work long hours (not just busy season), and work life balance become a joke especially I have a new family member I need to take care of.

I still love public accounting, so I am not thinking about going to corporate companies yet. If I do want to still stay in public accounting, but also balance my work with my life, I think smaller accounting firms are a good choice. But I am kind of afraid to do so, not only because of the brand that I am currently associated with (big 4), but also the future learning/growing opportunities.

Anyone here have switched from big 4 firms to smaller accounting firms? Please give me a little bit story from your side, I need encouragement to make my move. Thank you!

AUD - 76 (May 2012)
BEC - 81 (July 2012)
REG - 61 (Aug 2012), rematch 83 (October 2012)
FAR - 85 (May 2013)

Based on Becker 2012 self-study.
Currently licensed PA CPA since July 2013.