Some people struggle to find work, which probably makes you appreciate your steady gig. But at the same time, maybe you've gone as far as you can go with your current employer. Even if you think it's time to start looking for other opportunities, you might hesitate. There are, however, telltale signs that it's time to finally quit your job and move on.
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1. Going to Work Makes You Physically Sick
Everyone has those days when they don't want to get out of bed. However, if getting up and going to work makes you physically sick everyday, this is a pretty good indicator that it's time to look for another opportunity. There's no such thing as a perfect job, but this doesn't mean you have to stick with a job you absolutely hate.
2. You Know More than Your Boss
If you've been at your job for several years, you might come to the realization that you know more than your boss. This isn't meant to make you sound cocky. But if you've been learning or taking courses over the past few years, you might be qualified to take your bosses job. You have a choice, either stay in a position that doesn't challenge you, or look for a better opportunity.
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3. You're Not Getting Paid Your Worth
You might like the company, your boss and your coworkers, but if your employer is unable to pay a competitive wage, there's nothing wrong with looking for work elsewhere. Smaller companies don't always have cashflow to pay top dollars. If your experience, skills and education can command a higher salary, and if other companies in the area are paying their employees more for the same work, it's time to explore your options.
4. You're Employer is in Trouble Financially
You might have a sense of loyalty to your employer. But if the company isn't doing well financially, or if you feel the company might go under soon, now's the time to jump ship - especially if there's no chance of getting a severance package.
5. There's No Opportunity for Advancement
If climbing the career ladder is your goal, you need to get with a company that will allow you to move up the corporate ranks. This isn't an option at every single company. So if you feel a position stunts your growth and there's no room for advancement, it's time to move on to better things.
6. Your Personal Life Suffers
Some employers want all your time and energy. You might not have a personal life, and striking a healthy work-life balance can feel impossible. If you don't want to be a slave to your job, you might consider opportunities that'll free up your personal time.
7. You Don't Agree with the Company Culture
Some companies are very professional, whereas others are more laid-back. Some employers don't tolerate backstabbing, while other feel it's "every man for himself." At the end of the day, you have to decide whether the company's culture is the right fit for you.
The decision to quit your job is a tough one. But if quitting brings personal satisfaction and lets you grow and challenge yourself, it's worth considering. What are other good reasons to finally quit a job and move on?
Comments
peony: @Naya great points but even if you do not have financial back up quit anyway. Health first money later!
Tinamarie: I loved reading this, just what I needed. This is my last week at my current job and found a better one that just fell on my lap, better fitted for me!! It too started affecting my Heath and overall mood. I feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders by leaving my job!! I can be happy and breathe again!! I was going to take time off from working, but I enjoy working having my own independent and to help with the bills, and my own spending money.
Sofea: Exactly!! Im happy that i choose to quit and have better life
peony: Great post. The points you make refer to me. I left my job because the boss had a tiny self esteem and I knew I couldn't take his energy any longer so I left and went for a better job. Other people who took on my role all left with a couple of months. I hear he has taken a long sick leave ...poor fool!
Naya: I did exactly this about a month ago. It was a long time coming. The job was starting to affect my health through stress, it was taking up all hours of my day. The salary was amazing but even if they paid me twice as much I wouldn't go back. I'm currently taking ages months off to rest and recover- but for the first time in ages, I am excited about life again!! If you think you need to quit- make sure you have some financial security- and DO IT! Do something that you love doing instead :)
peony: @bluedahlia73 I hear you girl. If you have your soul intact at least u are able to make the right decisions for you!
faeaki: Good article ! I myself am in the middle of asking for a salary increment which was verbally promised to me but they have yet to deliver. Also there is a bad culture there whee every ones sister brother or wife etc seems to get employed there despite there abilities, the pay is badly worked out and after numerous meetings with them I can say that I don't trust them! I have hesitated on looking for work elsewhere due to travel costs and hours. With 2 children I am limited with where I can work !
bluedahlia73: I was at my job for 5 and a half years. I was manager of a bar at a non-profit organization. I made a pittance as far as salary goes and decent tips. One of the members was terrorizing me. Verbally and mentally abusing me! Threatened me! I couldn't take it!!! I finally wrote him up, twice. I was done! Since then there have been several people attempt my job, but none last. And HE is listed as the contact person!!!
bluedahlia73: Anyway, Peony Blue, you're right. Sometimes you just have to do it to save your own soul 😵
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