Signs it's Time to Quit Your Job
Over the course of our professional lives, we often come across challenges and situations that cause us to re-evaluate our current job situation. While some challenges are essential for growth, some may simply be holding us back.
The hard part is knowing when to stick it out and when to move on.
Here are several signs that might tell you it’s time to see a new opportunity.
Loss of Passion
Not everyone is excited to go to work every day. In fact, most of us wake up in the morning and have to muster up the motivation to even show up.
But that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s time to quit.
But a loss of passion is an issue when it becomes a regular occurrence. If you struggle every single day to find motivation to complete your daily tasks and responsibilities, then you may be struggling more than you think.
If you feel challenged to simply do your best—then maybe it’s time to find something else.
No Opportunities for Growth
Some people prefer jobs that remain the same—they’re simple and predictable. It can make your days less overwhelming.
But if you’re working your way up in your career, then a job with little to no advancement can really halt your growth. A fulfilling job should offer opportunities for both personal and professional development.
Physical & Mental Health Concerns
Roman Samborskyi, Shutterstock
Most people experience a little bit of stress or physical ailments related to their jobs. It’s sort of a given when you have to work for a living.
But if your job is causing you extreme stress, anxiety, or physical health concerns then perhaps it’s time to consider something else.
Work-induced health concerns are not signs to ignore as they can escalate rather quickly.
If your job negatively impacts your health, it’s imperative to prioritize your well-being.
Consistent Negativity
B-D-S Piotr Marcinski, Shutterstock
As mentioned before, it’s fairly common to not always be excited to go to work. However, if you are constantly negative about your job then it may be a sign that the role is not for you.
It’s important to have a job that makes you feel good.
So, if you spend your Sunday worrying about Monday—it can be a significant red flag.
Mismatch in Values
Internal conflict occurs when your personal beliefs clash with the company’s values. This can make it extremely difficult for you to align with organizational goals.
Not only should you like what you do, but you should also agree with what you do. Alignment with personal values is key for your own mental peace, and also for job satisfaction.
If your values don’t match, it’s time to go.
Toxic Work Environment
What defines a toxic work environment? It is when negative behavior is rooted into the company culture.
In a toxic work environment, employees are often stressed, and communication is limited. Blame culture is common, and people are rewarded for unethical or harmful attitudes.
This type of environment not only diminishes productivity but it can also significantly impact your mental health.
Financial Instability of the Company
Financial instability within the company is a tough path to navigate. No one wants to simply walk away when you know you’re needed. But if there are evident signs that the company is struggling, it may be time to consider a more stable position elsewhere.
Financial instability often leads to frequent lay-offs, budget cuts, or unpaid salaries—all of which could be significantly detrimental to your own well-being.
Work-Life Imbalance
An appropriate work-life balance is extremely important. If you’re consistently working overtime, always on call, and missing personal commitments you may be well on your way to burnout.
It is imperative that your work day has an end, you have adequate time off, and that your personal time is respected by your employer.
Under-compensation
These days, most of us are taking what we can get when it comes to job compensation. But you’re only doing yourself a disservice.
If your salary doesn’t match your skills, experience, and the market rate—it might be time to seek something new.
Being adequately compensated is an essential part of job satisfaction.
Your Input Isn't Valued
Another essential part of job satisfaction is feeling heard and valued. If your input is constantly being overruled, your self-worth will quickly wither.
Everyone deserves to be part of a time where their contributions matter.
Gut Feeling
Sometimes it may seem like nothing is wrong. Your coworkers are great, your boss is wonderful, and you seem to be good at what you do… but your gut is telling you something.
Trusting your instincts is vital.
Perhaps a better opportunity is lurking around the corner. Or maybe an exciting change is exactly what your complacent life needs.
Better Opportunities
Don’t be so quick to toss the job section in the newspaper. You may think you’re happy with what you have, but that doesn’t mean something better isn’t waiting for you.
If you’ve been offered a better job, or believe that there are better opportunities out there for you, it may be worth looking into.
Advancing in your career sometimes means seizing the unexpected opportunities as they arise.
Final Thoughts
The decision to leave a job requires thorough reflection and preparation. Before making a big move, consider talking to your employer about any concerns you have first. Seeking career counselling or speaking with a trusted friend can be helpful as well.
It is also suggested to secure a new position before quitting your current one.
Remember, it’s okay to prioritize your happiness, professional growth, and overall well-being.
