[a_shane]

It seems like a recurring theme in these types of posts is that people leave high-paying jobs and that we should applaud them for "giving up" their salaries to do what makes them happy.

Not that this is a bad thing (I applaud anyone who does something difficult in the pursuit of long-term happiness), but the fact that many people enter into unfulfilling job situations because they're drawn to the high profile and/or salary probably plays a large part in why they feel unfulfilled after working there for a while.

[zallarak]

High pay is definitely a positive outcome. But it is one of several things that matter, not the only one. The fallacy I think lots of people fall for is to over-weigh its role in contentment - but it definitely does have a role.

[noname123]

Totally I agree.

You can learn about coding on your own time anytime you want, at any age, on your own and with the help of free online courses, meetup's or paid courses etc.

Learning about M&A, building your professional network in investment banking, the financial markets is not so much accessible. Nothing against his enthusiasm/passion, I don't think OP was very wise to quit his job.

[pitay]

Sometimes you just get a terrible boss, most people would not be able to predict that happening.