It seems like everyone wants to quit their job right now doesn’t it? Since all of our lives were irrevocably changed by the COVID-19 pandemic, and in particular our working lives, millions of people in many countries around the world have chucked in their jobs. Referred to ‘The Great Resignation‘ we’re leaving behind unsatisfying roles and moving onto… what?
The fact is, many folks are no longer buying the company line that they have to work overtime unpaid, put up with poor pay or conditions, and deal with outdated HR processes that don’t actually address any of the real workplace issues. But if you want to quit you really do need to think about it a bit more deeply than just feeling frustrated or unsatisfied.
I know this because before I began my online counselling practice and then transitioned into online relationship, personal and business coaching, I quit heaps of jobs. Maybe that says more about me than the jobs (!), but when I look back there are a few I wish i’d quit earlier, and a few I wish i’d stayed in longer. If i’m really honest, I wasn’t always clear on my why, I didn’t always give ‘sorting it out’ a chance, and I certainly didn’t always have a transition plan.
Quitting your job can be a daunting decision, but sometimes it’s necessary to take the leap and embrace new opportunities. In this blog post, we’ll explore a step-by-step guide on how to quit your job with grace, empowering you to embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth.
1) Reflect on Your Why
Begin your journey by taking some time for introspection. Consider why you want to leave your current job. Is it due to lack of growth opportunities, dissatisfaction with the work environment, or a desire to pursue your passion? Understanding your motivations will help you make a well-informed decision and set a clear direction for the future. Bear in mind that your day job doesn’t have to be your passion! Maybe your job gives you the ability to do other things you value. Maybe you could cut back a few days instead of quitting your job. Make sure you’re talking to people who love you (and you’re talking to yourself) about your ‘why’ and not just falling into the trap of comparison with others when everyone seems to be quitting, or ‘grass is greener’ syndrome.
2) Create a Transition Plan
Leaving your job without a plan can be risky. Develop a transition plan that includes setting a specific quitting date, arranging your finances, and identifying potential career paths. This plan will help you navigate through the uncertainties of quitting, ensuring a smooth transition to the next phase of your life. Remember that you don’t necessarily have to go on immediately to another job, but you do need to have the finances to support yourself while you take a break or pursue a creative path or build your own small business with the help of a coach. While many folks will want to have a new job lined up before leaving, be aware that your current employer might offer you something tempting, so make sure you get yourself back to step 1 and know your ‘why’. If your boss can meet your needs where you are you may find yourself not wanting to quit your job after all.
3) Communicate Openly
When it’s time to inform your employer about your decision, have an open and honest conversation. Choose an appropriate time and place, and be prepared to explain your reasons calmly and professionally. Express gratitude for the opportunities and experiences gained during your tenure. Of course this may not be possible or desirable if you’re in a really bad or unsafe situation and you want to speak up about it. But broadly speaking, this approach will help maintain positive relationships even after you leave. Which you are likely to need.
Be open to the possibility that your employer doesn’t know how unhappy you are. Not so different from romantic relationships, sometimes bosses are absolutely shocked when they find out a treasured employee is quitting. If you actually like or respect your employer (and that is not always the case!!!) give them a chance to say their piece and see if they can offer you something better. If there’s no way your current workplace can meet your needs, it’s ok to say that and to move on without burning any bridges. Most employers in my experience respect ambition. It’s not true that if your resume is a little… busy… you won’t find work again. On the contrary, if you get your wording right and you’re able to clearly explain your decisions, most workplaces are happy to gain someone with rich and varied experience.
4) Wrap Up Your Responsibilities
During your notice period, focus on wrapping up your pending tasks and projects. Offer to train your successor and provide handover documentation to smoothen the transition for your team. Leaving on a high note demonstrates professionalism and leaves a lasting impression of your work ethic. Don’t take on more responsibility than you need to though. If your current workplace isn’t supportive or interested in things like handovers, let it go. You are not responsible for ongoing client outcomes or project maintenance. Sadly, most workplaces I have left did not maintain the roles or programs I helped build, even when they were incredibly successful. I recall one workplace I spent hours and hours outside of paid time painstakingly creating documentation that i’m now certain went in a drawer never to be seen again. Sometimes this is simply a case of resource issues or the nature of your industry, but often it’s an indicator of a toxic workplace and the very reason you are leaving. It’s not your job to fix an entire dysfunctional culture. Do what you need to do and then walk out the door with your head held high.
5) Take Care of Yourself
Leaving a job can be emotionally challenging. Take time for self-care and engage in activities that rejuvenate your mind and body. Reach out to friends, family, or a professional support network. Don’t pour your entire soul into an old workplace you are leaving or a new one you aren’t sure of yet. Breathe. Take some time off if you can. Cry, sleep, write in your journal, punch pillows, talk, rest, read books, laugh, watch the Barbie movie, switch off.
6) Network and Seek Opportunities
Utilise your network to explore new career opportunities. Attend industry events, connect with professionals on LinkedIn, and update your resume and online profiles. Networking is a powerful tool for career advancement. ‘It’s not what you know, it’s who you know’ is a cliche for a reason. And also you’re doing something- you’re taking action on your own behalf- rather than taking action for an employer. No one is going to be more invested in your career and your personal growth than you (and perhaps your family) so it’s only you that can take action and create your own opportunities.
7) Embrace Change
Change can be uncomfortable, but it also brings new possibilities. Embrace uncertainty and trust that your decision to quit was for the best. Even if you quit your job in an intense moment of flurry and didn’t have the time for all the above steps, so what? You’re a human. You followed your heart and what’s more important than that. Or even if you did manage to prepare but it’s all wobbly and unsure still, so what? Uncertainty is super-uncomfortable. Our brains don’t like it and we fight against it, and yet we also crave change. So go with the flow and try to give yourself credit for being brave and taking a risk. Often the most exciting things happen in places of discomfort. How awesome are you, adventuring, looking for something better?! Life’s journey is about embracing change and discovering new stories to unveil.
Quitting your job is a courageous step toward self-discovery and new beginnings. By following these steps and channeling your own or others inspiring wisdom, you can navigate this transition with confidence. Embrace the change, trust in your capabilities, and welcome the adventure that awaits you beyond your current job.
Looking for a coach to support you in a career transition? Need to zip imposter syndrome in the bud? Jump into my online course right now to bolster your confidence, or let me help you unapologetically find your next step with personal or business online coaching.
Main image by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash
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