One thing’s for sure, the longer you work, the more chances you have to quit your job. I recently resigned from my seventh grown-up job. It was the position I’d worked at the longest – more than nine years. Since this experience is top of mind, I wanted to share my top take-aways when deciding to quit.
Before we get to the list though… The main thing is to imagine how you want to feel after it’s all said and done. For me and this latest departure, I wanted to leave with integrity. I value the work of the organization even though I am ready for what’s next. I care about the people who still work there. I am mindful of my professional reputation. I crafted my entire exit strategy with these values in mind. Leaving with integrity truly is hard work up front, but your conscience will thank you after the fact. Now, the list: 1. Do the math. You might be in a place of wanting to quit but thinking you can’t afford it unless you have another job already lined up. There’s a handy technique I refer to as “math vs drama” – actually knowing what you need to bring in to meet the expenses you are absolutely on the hook for (mortgage, health insurance, etc), you need to know how much that adds up to. And if you want to leave before you have a replacement job, how much would you need to earn as a stopgap situation and for how long? The number might be daunting, but the unknown is paralyzing. When you have a target amount, you know what you are aiming for. If you think it’s doable, then you can actively decide to depart (rather than deciding to stay by not deciding at all.) 2. Discuss it with your support structure.
3. Decide:
4. Dig through your documents and detangle. Some employers will ask you to leave immediately. Tidy up your inbox and your files (virtual or real) before you give notice. While it’s never a good idea to have personal documents or correspondence commingled with your work stuff, it definitely happens, so sort through it prior to giving notice. 5. Deliver Notice:
6. Delegate and Document:
7. Depart Gracefully:
Need someone to hold space to help you decide? I'd be happy to help. Message me or click her to set up a call. Comments are closed.
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