Is it time to quit your job?

When is it time to quit your job? These signs might indicate it's now.

It's rare that anyone loves their work all the time. However, if you find that you're struggling with getting out of bed to head into the office or to your computer at home because you're dreading work, it might be time to evaluate your situation.

Is the dread you feel something that can be shifted with some adjustments?
Is it time to move on?
When is it time to quit your job, truly?
How do you really know?

In this post, we share some signs that indicate the time to leave might be sooner rather than later, along with considerations before you do.

When is it time to quit your job?

It could be time to walk away from your job if you find yourself asking over and over, “When is it time to quit your job?” Below are 12 signs to consider that might help bring some clarity to the question.

Your ethics are being compromised

If you find the organization you work for is doing some sketchy things that just don't sit right with you, it's understandable that you might not want to stay. Beginning a new job search to secure a job that you feel good about makes sense.

Your work values are in question

It's important for your values to align with the company's values. When this isn't the case, it can cause you stress. An example of work values being out of alignment is

You value a good work-life balance and flexibility
The company you work for has a strict in-office and limited leave policy

There's no room for growth

Some people are fine with being where they are or at a certain level in their careers without the need for advancement. However, if this isn't you, and you find that you have little to no room for growth where you are, then you might want to move on.

You strongly dislike it or dread it

If you wake up in the mornings with a heaviness in your chest and dread about work, it's not a good sign. This is especially true if it's been going on for a while.

It's an unhealthy work environment

Unhealthy work environments come in all shapes and sizes. It could be that bullying and harassment are tolerated, leading to mental health challenges. Or, your physical safety could be in jeopardy due to the organization not following sufficient safety rules and guidelines. Regardless, an unhealthy work environment isn't worth a decline in your well-being.

You feel out of alignment

You probably have a strong desire to feel a sense of purpose through your work. It can cause consternation when you feel out of alignment and a lack of purpose through your work. If it's truly bothersome for you not to feel a sense of purpose, then it might be best to look for a position that better aligns with who you are and how you want to contribute or show up in the world.

You need more balance

Today, it's common for you to want to work to live, not live to work. If you find that you're working all the time without much time to do what's important to you, you may want to strategize how to find a position that's better suited to your lifestyle.

You're not making what you're worth

Though money's not everything, it can be demotivating when you're not making what you're worth, especially if it's far from it. When taking your entire total compensation and benefits package into account, if you still feel undervalued, it might be a sign to look for a job where you'll be valued in such a way that you're fairly compensated.

The company might not be around for much longer

When there is chatter that a company is struggling, it can be nerve-racking. If you learn that the company you work for might have to close or lay off employees, and you're at risk, it's understandable that you wouldn't want to stick around to find out.

Your priorities have changed

Your priorities change over time. Early in your career, working a lot and making lots of money might have been the priority. Later on, you probably made a shift and decided that you prefer to work less due to prioritizing family or something else over work. If your current position is making it difficult for you to uphold your priorities and it's causing issues, it could be time to research opportunities that better meet your needs.

You're offered better opportunities elsewhere

It's true that loyalty to employers exists, especially when it's a rockstar employer that treats you well. Still, better opportunities can come along with better pay, better benefits, more flexibility, and so on at any point in time. All that to say, if you're offered a position that's an excellent opportunity, it's a valid reason to leave your current job.

You wouldn't recommend others work there

It goes without saying that if you would steer others away from working where you work due to the work environment or other unpleasant factors, it might be time for you to say “Adios!” as well. There are plenty of pleasant work environments out there to choose from.

Considerations before deciding to move on

When it's time to quit your job, or you think it is, there are a few considerations to think through before you jump ship.

Consider ways to improve your experience without leaving

It's definitely worth evaluating your situation when you find yourself frequently asking, “When is it time to quit your job?” Before pulling the plug and giving your notice quickly, are there things that you can do to improve your work experience?

For example, if you like the company and it's the type of work you're doing that's the issue, are there other opportunities within the company that you might be better suited for?

Look at your life as a whole

Life is all about the ups and downs. Sometimes, it's not only work that's challenging but your life as a whole. Before leaving your job for good, it's worth assessing if there are things in your life that need to shift, which would then allow you to be more satisfied at work.

Speak with a professional

Speaking to a professional counselor or coach could help you evaluate your specific set of circumstances so you're making the best decision for yourself when you're asking, “When is it time to quit your job?” They can help you truly assess what's driving your decision so you can walk away (or stay) with more confidence in your choice.

Consider a leave of absence

If it's your health or burnout that's driving your decision, find out if it's possible to take a leave of absence for personal or health-related reasons. If so, you could use the time away to see how you feel about returning after a period of time.

Avoid burning bridges

When you know it's time to leave a job, it's best to do so without burning bridges whenever possible. Even if it's an unhealthy work environment, discrimination, or a challenging boss that's driving your decision, it can be to your benefit down the road to leave the company with tact. A few ways to do so include:

Giving a two-week notice
Wrapping things up professionally
Not bad mouthing or being negative towards others

Try to land another job before you leave

Most of the time, the answer to “When is it time to quit your job?” is after you find another one. If leaving your current position before landing a new job could cause financial strain, it might be best to try finding a new job before jumping ship, assuming your circumstances permit it and your health and safety aren't at risk.

Only you know the answer

You're the only one who truly knows the answer to “When is it time to quit your job?” If any of the signs above resonate with you, give yourself a bit of time and space to evaluate if it's possible for you to be okay and stay where you are or if it's truly time for you to leave.

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