Making the decision to leave your firm—whether it’s a broker-dealer, RIA, or another structure—can feel like stepping into the unknown. You’ve worked hard to build your career and are grateful for the opportunities your firm has provided. Yet, you can’t help but wonder: is this the right place for your future?

If these thoughts resonate, you’re not alone. Many firms keep advisors focused inward, with little exposure to how the industry is evolving. It’s hard to dream big when you don’t know what’s possible.

The good news? The industry is more dynamic and advisor-focused than ever. Innovative firms are offering tools, technology, and flexibility that were unimaginable just a decade ago.

These 10 questions are designed to spark clarity and help you envision what’s truly possible for your career, your clients, and your life.

10 Questions to Bring Clarity to Your Decision

1. Are you equipped to deliver an exceptional, industry-parity or better client experience today—and tomorrow?
   Does your firm provide the tools, technology, and resources you need to meet your clients’ evolving needs? Imagine what your practice could look like if you had the best solutions at your fingertips.

2. Can you deliver the client experience YOU envision for the clients YOU want to serve?
   Does your firm’s culture, service model, or policies align with your vision? Or do you feel like you’re constantly adapting to someone else’s priorities?

3. Are you empowered to price your services in alignment with your value?
   Can you create pricing structures that reflect your expertise and client relationships, or are rigid guidelines limiting your ability to grow?

4. Is your firm innovating to keep pace with the industry—or are you falling behind?
   From cutting-edge fintech to evolving client service models, is your firm equipping you with what you need to stay ahead of the curve?

5. Do your goals and values align with your firm’s vision?
   Is your firm’s leadership heading in a direction that reflects your priorities and your deepest personal beliefs—or are their policies, messaging, or values creating a growing sense of disconnect?

6. Do you feel secure in the ownership of your book of business?
   Are you confident your clients and your future are protected, or do you worry about your firm’s control over your book? Are there any steps you can take to increase your comfort?

7. Is outdated or inefficient technology slowing you down?
   How much more effective and impactful could you be with state-of-the-art tools and systems? One idea: Consider attending some industry technology demos or conferences to see the tech that is available.

8. Are you fairly compensated for your expertise and results?
   When you look at your earnings, do you feel confident they reflect your contribution—or is there a gap between your value and your compensation?

9. Do you feel valued for your contributions?
   Are your achievements in client service and business growth recognized and rewarded, or do you feel overlooked when it comes to decisions about equity, leadership, or succession?

10. If your firm made changes tomorrow, could they win back your full commitment?
    What would it take for you to feel inspired and fully aligned with your firm again? Is the gap between your needs and their direction widening or narrowing?

The Next Step: Clarity Through Action

Many advisors say, “Don’t look unless you’re ready to move.” While there’s truth in that advice, exploring your options can often provide clarity, and many will ultimately decide to stay. It’s not about jumping at the first opportunity—it’s about understanding what’s possible for your career, your clients, and your life.

If you’ve been wrestling with these questions, know this: you deserve a firm that supports your growth, empowers your success, and aligns with your values. Exploring your options can be the first step toward building the practice—and the future—you’ve always envisioned.