How to Quit My Job & Start Something New

Perusing the classified ads prior to leaving your job can be helpful in finding something new.

So, you've decided that your days at your current job are numbered and it's time to embark on a new career path. Doing the same thing you do for another employer for 50 cents more an hour won't cut it; it's time to reinvent yourself and pursue something you love. Quite a few find themselves in this position, only to end up feeling stuck in their current jobs for a variety of reasons; there might be too much risk in leaving or they might get convinced to stay thanks to a pacifying raise. The good news is that with some shrewd planning and determination, you really can start something new.

Instructions

1. Ask yourself what you've always wanted to do. You don't want to simply take the dubious step sideways and fall into a similar career at another employer. What's the point? The key is to make it worth the risk and swing for the fences. For example, if you are a bank vice president who has always dreamed of owning a restaurant, start crafting business plans for said restaurant instead of sending resumes to rival bankers.

2. Organize the logistics of the process. Make sure you have enough money saved, as your new career may entail a temporary drop in pay. Consider the previous banker-turned-restaurateur example: Starting up a restaurant often requires a great deal of investment. Plus, there's the fact that it may take a while to establish the eatery's brand, and business may be slow at first. Another factor to consider is whether you and your family will have to move. How long will you need to plan such an endeavor?

3. Gather the support of your friends and family. What you are about to do will require courage from within yourself, but it never hurts to have those you love rooting for you. On the flip side, you should also avoid getting discouraged from the inevitable naysayers who'll accuse you of being foolish.

4. Give your notice to your current employer. How much time you wish to give will vary, depending on when you will be able to start your new career. Two weeks is the standard amount of notice, but use your judgment. For example, if you are the aforementioned banker, it may be more courteous to give a two-month notice.

References

• Monster; Quitting Time--Should You Make the Leap?; Caroline Levchuck; 2011
• Chief Happiness Officer; How to Find a Job You'll Love; Alexander Kjerulf; January, 2007