Filed under Jobs on October 23rd, 2008:
9 Reasons to Quit your Job
Work…you either love it or hate it but you do it every day nonetheless. Most of us get comfortable in our current routines and are nervous about changing jobs, but sometimes making a change can lead to greater fulfillment, more happiness and possibly more money. It’s important to take a look at where you are in your career and decide if you’re satisfied with the status quo or if it might be time to make a change.
Is it Time to Quit Your Job?
Are you Bored? – If your work is too easy and you no longer feel like you are growing, it may be time to challenge yourself with a new role. You should constantly be learning more skills and gaining industry knowledge. If you are stagnant and feel like what you’re doing is useless, dust off that resume and think about finding a job.
Are you Overly Stressed? – Do you feel incredible pressure at work? Does it seep into your personal life or keep you awake at night? Maybe you are bullied by a belittling boss or burdened with an unreasonable amount of work? Every job brings stress, but if the stress level is making you miserable, you should find a more suitable job.
Do you Hate Going to Work? – When your alarm rings in the morning, do you just want to hide under the covers? On Sunday nights do you start getting a stomachache thinking about the upcoming work week? If you find a job you truly love, you’ll wake up feeling lucky to have it. You’ll be eager to see what each new day brings and what new skills you can learn or improve on.
Are you and your Boss on the Same Page? – Is your boss open to talking about your career path and coaching you on how to achieve your goals for more responsibilities, raises and promotions in the future? If your boss shrugs off any questions about your future with the company, or makes promises but never keeps them, it’s time to go.
Are you in the Wrong Field? – Is your gut telling you you’re meant to do something else? Are you ignoring your passions and interests just to pay the rent every month? Devise a plan for a career change. If more school is required, it is not impossible. Take online courses from your home. Maybe you’d enjoy a different job but it pays less money? Get a plan rolling…get a cheaper car, a less expensive apartment, pay off debt, start getting your ducks in a row. You only have one life to live so make sure you do what you find fulfilling.
Do you Feel a Sense of Belonging? – Do you fit in and get along with your coworkers, for the most part? Does the company uphold the same values as you or does the way the company does business make your skin crawl? If your gut feeling is you don’t want to be a part of this place, then don’t.
Is the Company Stable? – If the company is on shaky ground, you’ll want to be proactive and find something more stable. If your company has a hiring freeze, a salary freeze or is not coming forth with promised bonuses, these are all bad signs. A financially sound employee-oriented company normally offers raises, bonuses or profit-sharing and opportunities to move up for loyal employees who are solid contributors.
How is your Commute? – If you are commuting more than an hour each way from your Fresno apartment and you could find a job closer to home, it’s a good idea. Working long hours and commuting 2+ hours a day not only exhausts you but uses up every hour of the daylight. People who sit in congested traffic are more prone to illness and back problems and less likely to exercise.
Are you Fairly Compensated? – Are you paid a comparable salary to others in your field? Are you given a yearly raise to keep up with the cost of living? Have your bonuses or commissions been cut, leaving the size of your paycheck smaller than it used to be? Search job postings on sites like Monster.com and see what positions and salaries you qualify for.
If you do decide to quit, don’t do something rash. The most respected employees give at least two week’s notice and maintain a helpful attitude through the end.