Not all financial advisors approach career change the same way. Some make sudden moves, others wait until the last straw, and some remain stuck for years. In this post, we explore the four types of advisors and how understanding your approach can help you make smarter, more strategic career decisions.

Have you ever felt like your career has hit a comfortable plateau? You’re proud of what you’ve built, but deep down, you sense there’s more you’re capable of achieving. That quiet nudge might be telling you it’s time to aim higher.

This is one of the most common questions I hear from advisors at firms like Edward Jones, Merrill, UBS, and large RIAs. It’s often followed by a confession: “I think I might be…”

The truth? If you’re asking this question, your gut is probably right. But before you make any decisions, it’s essential to do the actual math—not just glance at your payout grid.

Imagine a career where you control every decision, secure your financial future, and build a lasting legacy. Advisors just like you have already made it happen. Here’s why owning your practice is the most powerful step you can take.

If you’ve watched 1883, the prequel to Yellowstone, you know how important it is to have the right guide when you’re venturing into uncharted territory. Transitioning to a new firm is a lot like setting out on your own trail: it’s unfamiliar, filled with hidden risks, and a great guide can make all the difference.

There are stages to the decision of “if” you should move firms, and each person or firm moves through the journey at their own pace.