"Can management consulting provide a high quality of life for someone with a family?"
A great question we recommend begins with the answers to the below:
Next, let's consider the definition of management consulting:
"The work done by a consulting firm which focuses on advising companies on the best ways to manage and operate their business. The firm will give advice on concepts like their business strategy and operational techniques, and also skills like time management, depending upon the needs of the company."
Where does it say in the definition you physically have to be there?
If I may share, I am a management consultant. I began my practice May 2015. I live with my wife (no kids). We spend every morning together hand grinding coffee, doing yoga and she goes to see clients for her business. I work from home.
Now as a new business practice am I driving a Ferrari right now? No.
Do I live in a nice apartment 3 mins from downtown Dallas and pay my bills? Yes.
Am I building my personal brand to expand my revenue stream? Absolutely.
Am I concerned about when a specific definition of success is realized? No.
Do I have more time with my wife in the middle of my career than most people now? Yes.
What I am saying is I know the possibility exists because I live it every day. So the answer to the question you asked is: Yes.
The questions that I recommend you ask:
1) What am I willing to do and how hard am I willing to work to pursue the vision of being a management consultant in a way that allows time with my family?
2) How important is it that a certain timeline be realized as it relates to specific aspects of how I interpret high quality of life?
3) How do I prioritize each aspect of high quality of life?
Asking these questions will help guide you on how to spend your time. Anything is possible. Just a question of whether you believe what you are pursuing is the best way to realize what you genuinely desire and value.