Top 10 Things You Should Consider BEFORE Quitting Your Job - Is it Them or Me?

From time to time, the urge for a career shift may hit you. Quitting a job can be a difficult decision, and it can be challenging to determine whether it is due to personal problems or issues with the job itself. In either case, quitting a job can have a significant impact on an individual's life, and it is important to approach the decision with careful consideration.

When it comes to your career, staying vigilant is key. Look out for common warning signs that might suggest continued employment at a certain place isn't the best of ideas – because when left unchecked, any damage done could be irreversible - both on a personal and professional level! Keep reading to find out what details you need to factor in before making those tough decisions.

1) You don’t enjoy going to work each day. If the thought of going to work fills you with dread, it may be a sign that something needs to change. Sometimes it's the job, sometimes it's the career, and sometimes it's your own perspective. Whether your job isn't meeting your expectations or the workplace is an unhealthy environment, ultimately if waking up each morning feels like pure agony-it could be time for some self-reflection and consideration into different career or job options.

2) You’ve stopped learning and growing in your role. Sometimes, organizations offer growth and learning paths that go unoticed. Does your job offer a learning portal? Do you get access to LinkedIn Learning or other education benefits? If so, try to take advantage of it. If these programs are not available or are not useful, take charge of your career success and be proactive about growth! When you notice yourself becoming complacent in one role, it may be time to move on and pursue a new opportunity that allows for enriching your skillset. There's no better way to remain competitive than developing new competencies as the industry rapidly evolves - put yourself ahead of the curve by seeking out these possibilities now. Remember that employers pay for experience and talent. They seldom take the approach that they are responsible for your own development. It is no longer true that: "Whatever job I get, they have to train me!" Employers sometimes offer training, but it is not always a guarantee. This mentality severely limits your marketability and income potential. So ensure that you are being proactive and responsible for your own growth and marketability. If you don't see it, you better find it!

3) Your workplace culture fails to align with your values and beliefs. Often, employees try to make entire organizations conform to their own beliefs. The hard truth is though, employees are not owed this, but competitive organizations that seek to retain employees make efforts toward making employees feel comfortable. Nonetheless, your core values and beliefs can be like a roadmap guiding your career path. When these collide with an employer's culture or morality, it could create tension in the workplace that will eventually erode performance quality. This is a straightforward warning sign to consider searching for other jobs where you might feel better aligned! If what you do feels immoral and causes you to lose sleep at night, leave - ASAP!

4) You’re feeling underappreciated by management or coworkers. If your contributions are overlooked or not taken seriously this can cause significant stress in the workplace; after all, we all want to feel valued in our roles! Feeling unappreciated is an obvious sign that something needs to change - whether it means speaking up about how you feel or actively looking for another opportunity where recognition isn't lacking. In the meantime, keep a track record of how you have added value to your organization. Sometimes, writing down your accomplishments may give you an opportunity to reflect. Did you really make the contribution you think you did? If not, congratulations on being truthful, but you may have to rediscover ways to add value to your current organization. If you insist that you did add value though, this list of contributions will go a long way in preparing for your next job interview.

5) Your salary or benefits don't match market value. Doing research on industry standards is key when assessing whether or not your salary or benefits reflect fair compensation rates relative to given job market norms. If they do not meet current expectations, then failing to re-negotiate salary or switch jobs will likely leave long-term monetary losses down the road. This could make quitting absolutely necessary before further damage is done in terms of professional credibility and financial security alike. Salary and long-term value are key. When making these considerations, consider the total compensation package. Do you have access to bonuses, stock options, education, 401K, etc.? How much do you stand to gain in the long term? As an FYI, self-reporting sites like Glassdoor.com are likely to be inaccurate. However, Salary.com claims to be 100% reported by human resource departments with an 88% satisfaction rating. The better sources are the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and Payscale.com.?

6) You don't see yourself working there long-term. Who says you need to stay in the same job forever? Not all jobs are careers. Not all careers evolve within the same organization. If there are no promotion or networking opportunities within reach, it might be time to consider investing your talents elsewhere! Quitting could actually prove beneficial down the road. Do not continue to saunter along with zero hopes of retirement security and mid-career growth. Look forward instead by boldly taking a leap into greener pastures. Do not rely on your employer to get you to retirement. You and you alone are the only one in a position to make the strategic moves necessary to get you to the retirement you desire. Adopt the mentality that the retirement you get is the retirement you've earned.

7) You're consistently clocking more hours than expected. In general, most employers expect employees put their best foot forward during their allotted 8 hours per day; however, some situations require putting in extra effort in order to guarantee business results/successes. This might work for some motivated individuals in the prime of their youth, but how sustainable is this lifestyle? Before quitting, experiment with establishing some boundaries at work. Have a productive discussion with your boss about turn-around times and deadlines. Working long hours can be challenging, especially when it comes to relationships. Long work hours can lead to a lack of time spent with loved ones, which can strain relationships and lead to feelings of guilt, stress, and burnout. The effects of working long hours on relationships are not just limited to romantic partnerships but can also impact familial and social relationships. When overtime becomes frequent without any chance of resolution with your employer, then leaving should become priority number one.

8) You're experiencing burnout due to overworking & long hours. Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. It is a common phenomenon for individuals who work long hours, especially in high-pressure environments. Burnouts occur often amongst hardworking employees who lose motivation because they've worked too hard without taking proper breaks; likewise, an overly demanding boss who continuously piles on additional responsibilities can also lead one down such spirals resulting in extreme fatigue & exhaustion - both personal & professional alike due lack thereof satisfactory rest periods. Before quitting, practice self-care. Make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as exercise, hobbies, and spending time with loved ones. It's also important to get enough sleep and eat a healthy diet.

9) Mental & Physical health issues arise due to Stressful Work Conditions. Stressful conditions sometimes lead people to experience physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach aches & insomnia amongst many others; likewise, mental health issues such as anxiety & depression can also result from prolonged high-stress levels due to excessive workloads combined with pressure from upper management impairing person ability to function optimally thereby forcing them to reconsider their current work situation altogether. Seek support: Talk to friends, family, or a mental health professional about what you're going through. Having a supportive network can help you cope with the stress and feelings of burnout. Remember, it's okay to take care of yourself and prioritize your well-being. Addressing burnout and making changes to improve your work-life balance can lead to better health and happier relationships.

10. A far greater more exciting opportunity arises.

Obviously, if you hit the number and strike it rich - the better opportunity would be to move to an island and live out the rest of your days in a beautiful house, with a big boat as you take care of the people you care about. However, if work is still your main means of income, you might as well spend your time doing something you care about. In making this choice, reevaluate your work-life balance. Consider making changes to your work schedule or responsibilities to reduce the stress and demands on your time. Does remote work offer more flexibility for personal responsibilities? Would you like to travel regularly and see the world in your next role? It's important to find a balance that works for you and allows you to take care of yourself. If a better opportunity arises, don't be afraid to take it!

The Wrap-Up!

If you are considering quitting your job, it is important to assess whether the issue is with the job or with your personal circumstances. Some signs that the issue may be with the job include feelings of burnout, a lack of growth opportunities, toxic workplace culture, and an unacceptable work-life balance. On the other hand, if you are experiencing personal problems such as stress, depression, or burnout, it may be helpful to seek support and consider taking a break rather than quitting your job.

It is also important to consider the financial implications of quitting a job. If you are quitting due to personal circumstances, you may be able to take time off to address your needs and then return to work when you feel better. However, if the issue is with the job itself, quitting may be the only option. In this case, it is important to have a plan in place for finding new employment and to consider the potential impact on your financial situation.

Regardless of the reason for quitting, it is important to do so professionally. This means giving adequate notice to your employer, avoiding negative comments about the company or coworkers, and focusing on the positive aspects of your experience at the company. This will help you to maintain a positive relationship with your former employer and can be beneficial for your future career prospects.

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