Early-Career Doubts: Push Through or Reconsider?

Hi everyone,

I'm questioning my fit with the architecture profession.

I studied architecture in Switzerland, got burned out, took some time off after graduating, started in a small office, and now I feel overwhelmed again by the amount of things I still have to learn.

I feel drained by the constant pressure, coordination, deadlines, and this role of being the one who manages people who “know,” while not fully knowing myself. I need a certain feeling of being in control, having the time to fully understand a problem in order to find meaningful solutions. Rushing things, which seems to be the motto in my office, completely cuts off my motivation. I wonder if I’m just not wired for this environment, especially with the huge pressure and relatively low pay that come with it.

I’m craving some energy left after work. Some life outside of work. I fear architecture is a passion profession, and seeing how badly it affected my health in the past, I’m not sure I’m passionate enough anymore.

I’m considering whether I would be happier with a simple, stable job to cover my basic expenses, and develop architectural visualization independently on the side. That’s something I deeply enjoyed losing myself in while studying, and the idea of creating visuals that help designers make informed decisions really speaks to me.

Is it too early to quit? Should I push through, knowing that two years of internships and six months in a small office may not be enough experience to properly grow into and enjoy the profession?

Am I losing an opportunity to be in an environment where I can still develop myself?

Has anyone here chosen a “practical” job for financial stability while nurturing a more creative/independent path on the side? What kind of job is it?

I’d really appreciate hearing your insights and experiences. Thank you from the bottom of my heart :)