10 Things to Consider Before Quitting Your Job
During their careers, most people want to call it quits at one time or another. Choosing to leave a secure job voluntarily, however, should not be done on a whim. Even leaving a job would not create a financial strain, the change can impose strain on personal relationships and anxiety for the person on the move.
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Why You Want to Leave
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Take a hard look at what's motivating you to leave. If you're satisfied with your current employment overall but seek new experiences, consider a leave of absence to travel. Educational goals might be satisfied through part-time classes and night school. If you're bored, feeling unchallenged or want to start a new business, it might be time to leave.
Finances
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Quitting your job potentially means a period of unemployment or a reduction in salary, depending on the new position. Plan ahead to live on less and implement a smaller budget six months before leaving your job to make sure it's feasible. The money you save will also provide additional reserves for after you receive your last paycheck.
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Family
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Discuss the possibility of quitting with your partner. In addition to financial considerations, any major change can cause a disruption of routine which cause stress for everyone in the house. Depending on your plans, quitting a job might mean relocating to another city or neighborhood, leading to an abrupt shift in your family's lifestyle.
Social Benefits of Work
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Many individuals maintain close friendships with colleagues. Consider how leaving a workplace will affect those relationships, in particular if you want to maintain them long term. On the flip side, if difficult colleagues add to an unpleasant work environment, that is a valid reason to consider leaving.
Where You're Going
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The temptation is to focus on leaving your current employment; however, what you're leaving to do should receive even more attention. Decide if you want to attend school full time, find another job, travel or start your own business. Having a clear focus for the next phase will make filling up your days without work that much easier.
Action Steps
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Devise a game plan with specific action steps to meet your goal. If you're looking to find a new job, schedule informational interviews and networking sessions. Take business classes if you need them and seek advice to develop your business. Timelines will keep you on track; a plan to focus on finding your ideal job for the first six months before choosing to accept positions outside of your area will give your search a sense of urgency and practicality. Considering these steps before quitting your job will give you an idea of the preparations you need to make before you leave.
Employer Benefits
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Speak with the HR department in confidence before leaving and review the 401(k) and benefit options available to you if you resign. You might be able to incur the cost of your health coverage and continue your benefits after you leave.
References
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Leave the employer on good terms, and try to get a reference in writing before you leave. Even if you are quitting to move to another job or envision yourself dropping out of the industry completely, your reputation among colleagues and supervisors will follow you. Thank any individuals who have been particularly helpful to you and exchange contact information.
Amount of Notice
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Out of respect for the employer you might wish to give a few weeks' notice longer than is required. However, too much time in the job can make you restless and your boss might be able to coax you into staying. Offer to consult from an offsite location for a set period of time if you wish to make your services available to your former employer.
Emotional Toll
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Think through what quitting your job means for your finances, social life and career before you leave. Spend time talking through your worries with a counselor or other professional. When your future is uncertain, anxiety will increase. Preparing yourself for the emotions you will experience during transition will help you deal with them successfully.
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References
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