Interesting framework, but I wonder if the "stagnation cost" calculation cuts both ways...
If someone leaves a high-paying job to pursue something more aligned but underestimates how long it takes to rebuild income, network, and credibility in a new field, couldn't the compounding loss during that transition period actually exceed the stagnation cost of staying?
Especially for people without a financial cushion or a partner's income to fall back on. The $50/hour true rate in banking is striking, but what was the true hourly rate during the first 18 months after leaving, when you factor in the unpaid strategizing, networking, and ramp-up time?
I think for a lot of people the real trap isn't that they can't do the math... it's that the math is genuinely ambiguous, and framing it as a clear-cut loss might push people to leap before the landing zone is ready.
That’s why I say “if you already made up your mind to leave”, THEN the stagnation cost kicks in. Because it’s just a matter of time, you’re pushing off the decision you already made
And let’s be really honest - if you’ve been working in a high paying job for a couple years,*most people* have more than enough of a safety net. It’s just the never enough mindset - just one more month, one more paycheck etc
But yes - huge believer in making a plan before pulling the plug, which is why I’m hosting this webinar for people still in the seat
Interesting framework, but I wonder if the "stagnation cost" calculation cuts both ways...
If someone leaves a high-paying job to pursue something more aligned but underestimates how long it takes to rebuild income, network, and credibility in a new field, couldn't the compounding loss during that transition period actually exceed the stagnation cost of staying?
Especially for people without a financial cushion or a partner's income to fall back on. The $50/hour true rate in banking is striking, but what was the true hourly rate during the first 18 months after leaving, when you factor in the unpaid strategizing, networking, and ramp-up time?
I think for a lot of people the real trap isn't that they can't do the math... it's that the math is genuinely ambiguous, and framing it as a clear-cut loss might push people to leap before the landing zone is ready.
That’s why I say “if you already made up your mind to leave”, THEN the stagnation cost kicks in. Because it’s just a matter of time, you’re pushing off the decision you already made
And let’s be really honest - if you’ve been working in a high paying job for a couple years,*most people* have more than enough of a safety net. It’s just the never enough mindset - just one more month, one more paycheck etc
But yes - huge believer in making a plan before pulling the plug, which is why I’m hosting this webinar for people still in the seat
Came here to say “stagnation cost” is really interesting to think about! Cool to see additional chatter is already happening haha