Do you find that your job no longer challenges you? Or maybe your work environment is just downright toxic? So much of your life is spent on your career, so that time should be satisfying! If you are miserable, what is the point?! It may be time to quit!
Ooh, yep. I said it. Scary thought, right?! Especially if you have been with the same company for years. What about the future? Where will you go next?
It might help to think that you are not actually quitting. Instead, you are finding the best possible path to a more fulfilling and successful career and life. But, wait! Let’s not leap before we look. Let’s PLAN for this. And my guess is that you already have a plan in your head. Let’s put pen to paper and these steps will help:
- Take inventory. Why are you unhappy? Is it really a work thing or is it something else? Do you still have control over your career goals? If not, it’s time to take back control! Why haven’t you made the change already? Is fear keeping you stuck in the same job? Time to address that fear and take the steps you need to be in charge of your life. Make a list of your values – and if your career still aligns with them.
- Give yourself permission to take the leap! Only you can make this decision. It has to be your choice. Has the idea of staying become scarier than the thought of quitting? Remember, failure isn’t nearly as scary as regret! Don’t let the fear of possibly failing at the next step keep you trapped and unfulfilled.
- Stop worrying! If thoughts of an uncertain future paralyze you now, then you may never be able to quit. Instead look at the current situation. You know what you have here. And you have taken inventory and seen that it is not what you want. So, let’s look forward to the future with hope. Where would you like to see yourself in 10 years? Is it somewhere you can flourish and succeed at what you love? When you stop worrying about the future, you can focus on the present and the decisions you can make today point you in the right direction.
- Play to your strengths and passion. What do you actually really enjoy? Choose to stay on that path. If your current job is not giving you the opportunity to use your strengths or focus on your passion, maybe it’s time to look for a better fit.
- Find a catalyst. What will motivate you to freedom? How can you get re-energized? Maybe it’s a day off. Maybe it’s a longer vacation. Perhaps it’s attending a seminar or taking some college classes. Get inspired somewhere. Evaluate where you are and where you are headed and make the tough decisions for a better future. Ask yourself what your instincts are telling you and then act on the answer!
- Surround yourself with people who inspire you. Find a mentor who gives good advice. Make sure you listen to those close to you. If they all advise you against quitting your job, it might be wise to listen to them. However, if they are encouraging you to step out and do something new, let them be your cheerleaders!
- Quit wisely. When you quit, remember not to burn bridges. Give notice, help train a replacement but never talk bad about your employer. Leave a lasting impression that you want them to remember you by. You never know how that can affect you in the future. Even if the environment is toxic and disrespectful, you can choose to leave with your integrity intact. There’s a difference between being honest and constructive vs being vindictive.
The truth is, we are always happier doing what we love. And that happiness translates into better relationships with those around us. Have confidence in who you are! Finding the courage to quit may be the best decision you can make for your success!