How To Know When It Is Time To Quit Your Job

As Johnny Paycheck once said, “Take this job and shove it.” Well, maybe you don’t want to say that, but if you are feeling disconcerted in your current job, it might be time to hand in your notice. So, how do you know when it is really time to quit your job?

Many people will tell you that they knew the very minute it was time to quit their job. Maybe it was an incident with a co-worker or customer. Maybe it was the day they realized everyone else was paid more than them. Maybe it was the day they were asked to do something disgusting and absolutely not on their job description.

But more often than that, it is a moment of realization that the job isn’t for you and you could be happier somewhere else. It could be a lightning strike of a feeling, or it could build over months or even years. However it happens, you need to be able to recognize that feeling and know what to do when it happens.
Many people quit their job because they know they want and need to be doing something else, usually something they love.

Although this might not be the most financially responsible action, sometimes it works out for the best. Without a doubt, though, you will almost always be happier doing something you love for lesser pay.
Some people quit their jobs for ethical reasons, or to take a stand. They have drawn an invisible line in the sand and the employer has crossed that line. This is a very good reason to quit your job, as long as you have something else lined up.

Lots of people these days are quitting their job to start working for themselves. Working for yourself is great, but entails lots of hours, unpredictable cash flow, and puts a lot of pressure on you and your family. It’s very rewarding, but stressful.

In case you think you are tempted to quit your job, it is always a good idea to have an up-to-date resume on hand and ready to go – and NOT on your computer at work! Have copies of it ready to send out on another computer, just in case. Feel free to interview for jobs well before you have quit your job. Interviewing is a skill and the more you practice, you the better you will get.

You will know when it is time to quit your job if you listen to your gut feeling. If you can afford it, do it and take a chance at being happier!