Torn Between Staying in My Job and Starting Residency — Need Advice

Hi everyone,

I’m a GP who passed the boards last year. My original plan was to take a gap year because I wasn’t sure which specialty I wanted to apply to. Right now, I have an 8–5 job that pays well, covers my needs, and honestly makes me happy.

But the thought of residency is always at the back of my mind. This year, I found myself really enjoying OBGYN, but I’m still not sure if I can handle and survive the demands of it.

Here’s my dilemma: If I quit my current job and apply for residency (which isn’t even guaranteed I’ll get into), I can’t just come back to this job if things don’t work out. A few months ago, I was set on going into residency, but now that the time is getting closer, I’m hesitant because I’m content with my current situation.

At the same time, I worry that if I extend my moonlighting for another year, I might lose the drive to pursue residency altogether. Adding to the pressure, most of my friends are already in residency.

Has anyone been in a similar situation? How did you decide between staying in a comfortable, fulfilling job versus taking the leap into residency?