Should I quit my job?

Signs it is time to quit

• You feel sick on Sunday evenings and it has lasted months, not weeks.
• Your health, sleep or family life is paying for the job.
• You asked for change and nothing happened.
• You would not apply for this job today.
• The only reason you stay is fear of the unknown.

How to quit well

Line up the money first: 3 to 6 months of costs, or a signed offer. Tell your boss in person before anyone else, keep it short and positive, and work your notice properly. The world is small, and the people you leave today are your references and clients tomorrow.

Questions people ask

Should I quit my job without another one lined up?

Only if the job is hurting your health, or you have at least 6 months of living costs saved and a clear plan. Otherwise, start looking while you still have the income: it is easier to get hired from a job.

Is it bad to quit a job after a few months?

One short stint is fine if you can explain it in one sentence. A pattern of short stints worries employers, so make the next move a considered one.

My job gives me anxiety. Should I quit?

If the anxiety comes from the job itself (a toxic boss, impossible workload, fear every morning) and has lasted months, start planning your exit now, and talk to a doctor or counsellor about the anxiety too. If it eases on holidays and weekends, the job is a big part of it.

How do I know if I am burnt out or in the wrong job?

Take two weeks of real holiday. If you dread going back on the last day, it is the job. If you feel rested and ready, it was exhaustion.

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