Why is handing in your notice like breaking up with a partner?

The more candidates I support through the process of handing in their notice, the more I realise that it’s almost the same as coaching a friend through splitting up with their partner…

1. You’ve finally decided that this business isn’t right for you anymore, it suited you in the past but you have moved on, you want more, you want a future…
2. You identify a new opportunity that might just fit with what you are looking for, and although you feel guilty you know it’s the right thing for both of you…
3. The next bit gets more tricky, verbalising the fact that you feel that it’s time to move on…it doesn’t go well, nerves are going and guilt is setting in…(or not in some cases!)
4. The other party does not take it well, they ask if there is anything they can do, more money? The promise of career progression? More flexibility? Whatever you want, it’s yours. We can make it work.
5. You second guess yourself, but you know these are empty promises, something that sounds good but will never happen and you remind yourself why you are moving on and what kind of future you want in front of you
6. The other party is outraged that you haven’t wielded to their pressures, how dare you do this to them? At this time? Have you no consideration for the wider business?
7. The anger makes it easier to know that you have made the right decision and you feel excited about the future once more
8. Finally the silent treatment, although a couple of weeks ago they couldn’t function without you, they are doing a great job of making you feel unnecessary…
9. You enjoy the silent treatment, you can finally get your work done with no distractions, no unnecessary meetings and your handover is completed…
10. Your last day, best wishes for the future and they realise that it’s ok to stay friends and just maybe you were right all along…