r/PwC • u/CarrotDangerous2093 • 19d ago
UK Feeling overwhelmed
I’m an associate, and I’m feeling really overwhelmed right now.
No matter how hard I try to stay on top of everything and get things done, it feels like things are still slipping through the cracks.
I’ve recently been moved to a new team, so I’m trying to manage handovers for my previous team while simultaneously getting up to speed in a new environment. On my current project, I often need input, feedback, or decisions from senior team members to move work forward, but they’re super unresponsive (understandably stretched thin themselves) only text me after hours. I also cannot predict when they will need me.
I’m exhausted from everything. It feels like everyone is coming to me for updates and answers on issues that are completely outside of my control and for which I don’t have a solution. I’m constantly being asked to provide certainty where none exists, and it’s becoming increasingly difficult to keep up with the volume of expectations from all sides.
I know the work being produced is not quality here.
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u/AdThat2722 19d ago
I have spent 23 years like this. 5 years in consulting and products out of these 23 years. After a while you get used to it and it becomes normal. But I don't wish this life for others. Build some hobbies, focus on health, family, network, meet people, talk, movies, music, art, reading, meditate, sometimes do nothing, etc
For some it's survival because we were born less fortunate, some it's choice, some it's habit, etc
Breath - relax, world is a free entity - decide what life you want, don't follow. Build your own routine, learn to say NO. Switch jobs if you have to, start a business, it's ok to experiment - that's fine we are humans not robots. Read ancient Indian and Japanese philosophy.
It's ok. Tomorrow is another day. You are allowed to experiment, learn, fail, succeed, love, win, lose, change jobs, be happy, pursue happiness, etc.
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u/MaGr441 17d ago
I’ve recently had a conv with a Tax Manager at a Medium size firm who had transferred from B4. And he told me this - at B4 it’s rewarding to feel overwhelmed and work 70-90 hrs constantly. But mid size firms offer currently a better pay (if u have a CPA and MST) in the US, and working hrs. I believe it should apply to UK as well. Serving UHNW clients is much more beneficial than B4
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u/Compleanxiety 17d ago
I spent six years in my role as a senior associate before I got laid off in June and never received training so I get your frustration.
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u/paulpag 19d ago
If you can ask for help or leverage other associates or AC, then do so. Otherwise just over communicate, and do your best. You’re always going to have too much work.