Is quitting your job that bad? To quit means leaving something, usually permanently. I recently quit a job and career paying my way for 13 years. Today I want to talk about why quitting may be the right move for you.
Are you tired of certain coworkers or peers in your life? Do you keep telling yourself you need a change but are waiting for the perfect time to execute it? Let’s be honest change is difficult.
Quitting a job, a sport, a club, or a peer group can be tough. There’s often a poor attitude or demeanour around people who quit. I always see myself as someone who takes action and doesn’t quit. I’m here to explain the benefits of quitting and moving on.
I understand the metrics of putting food on the table, looking after others, and paying your bills on time. I know you probably need money to provide for these things and money to do other activities that you want. Having a paycheck is nice sure - but life is short.
While I’m not supporting quitting at life and living on your couch full time, I’m suggesting you only have a finite amount of time to do what you want. If you’re currently at a job you hate, taking orders from someone you don’t respect, and barely surviving to pay your bills, maybe it’s time to change.
I’ve said it before, and I’ll repeat it, there’s no perfect time to take action on something. There will always be obstacles, things that come up, and barriers preventing you from getting what you want.
If you want to make a change, just do it. Quitting your job may be an option to get you on the path that you ultimately want. Don’t waste your entire life working at a job you hate, and it’s not worth it.
I see this far too often. People chase money and are willing to overwork until exhaustion to get a “higher paycheck.” Working more may bring in more numbers on your paycheck, but this also removes more numbers by taxes.
Working too much is a surefire way to get stressed, overwhelmed, and not have a life. Many people on their deathbeds have regretted working so much in their lives. While I don’t know if balance is the correct word, you must find a different time when you work and when you don’t.
I’m all for working hard and putting in the time to earn your way, and many people overdo it by working endless hours at the office and doing nothing else.
A side hustle is something you pursue on the side of your regular day job. This is what I did for several years before leaping on my own. Side hustles are great because you can take on smaller projects that you're passionate about and test them in the real world while maintaining your day job.
Don’t get me wrong, quitting your job without a plan or heading is risky and may not be your best first move. Side hustles allow you to try something while still earning a steady income. I’ve heard many stories of people making decent side cash or even becoming millionaires from a side hustle.
I’m about planning and having a clear vision. By doing a side hustle (or a couple) over a few years, you may create a better idea of what you want to do.
You should follow some critical things before quitting your job or current career. Some general practices to ensure you aren’t closing any doors or opportunities in the future.
Give Notice - This may seem obvious, but I’ve often seen it when people dislike their job and tell the boss they’re finished and leaving next week. This is not the way to do it and be seen as a professional.
A minimum of 2-week's notice is expected from an employer. Depending on your circumstances or the business you’re in, you can give them more notice if needed.
Give Thanks - Be thankful for the upper management, your boss, or anyone else who has helped you out on the job. People love to be complimented. Go into specific details about a time when your boss helped you and how much you appreciate them.
Keep the Door Open - Quitting on bad terms is never a good idea. Leaving on a good note is always the best course of action. Whether you get laid off, fired, or quit yourself, always be respectful and keep your head up. You never know where you may cross paths with any of your coworkers in the future.
Stick to Your Decision - If you have an end date, stick with it. If you don’t want to be at that place any longer, leave. Sometimes when people try and quit, the company may ask what the issues are, try and increase your wage, or do other things to keep you on board. If the environment is toxic and no longer serving you, stick with your initial decision.
Quitting may have a bad rep, but sometimes it’s exactly what you need to do to get where you want to go. Getting uncomfortable in life is the key to getting results. Create a work exit plan, start a side hustle, or test out new projects.
Working too much likely won’t benefit you as much as you think. Years of regret and anger may fill you once you finally realize what you had to sacrifice to live that life. Thanks for reading, and I hope you have a great day!
Chris M Wilson
Chris Wilson is a keynote speaker, CTI coach, and entrepreneur. Through his Hover to Fly framework, he aims to impact the next generation in their careers and lives.