There will always be signs you need to leave your job. Please don’t ignore those signs – pay close attention to them. You always want to leave a job by choice and not by chance. I’m 100% for being the master of my own fate. You have the right to choose yourself and not stay in a bad situation. So, if you’re on the fence, here are five signs you need to leave your job:
You’re Being Disrespected and Mistreated
If you work at a job where you’re being disrespected and mistreated, you need to leave your job. This isn’t a suggestion sis. No amount of money is worth your self-esteem and self-respect being dragged to hell. When you know your worth, you know better than to tolerate mistreatment. No matter the nature of the relationship, mistreatment takes a mental, physical and emotional toll on you. A working relationship isn’t any different. You deserve respect and to be treated well. Period. You deserve to work in a place where you’re valued, not tolerated.
It’s Negatively Impacting Your Mental and Physical Health
When your job is negatively impacting your mental and physical health, it’s time to go. I’ve had more than my fair share of jobs that caused me anxiety and depression. The job I worked from 2004 through 2016 was, by far, the worst. It was an unpleasant cocktail of mistreatment, toxic environment and lack of opportunity. Now, don’t think I wasn’t trying my best to find a new job. However, no matter how many jobs I applied for, nothing was happening. The longer I stayed the more depressed I became. Week after week, year after year, Sunday night, by far, was my least favorite night of the week. Why? I had to return to that job I hated so badly. I also found myself drinking a lot of wine during that period, trying to drown my miseries. When I got to the place where I was always crying and I’d rather not be alive versus staying at that job, I knew it was time to go, regardless of whether I had a new job lined up or not. Your mental and physical health is far more important than any job.
Your Work Environment is Toxic
You can’t thrive in a toxic work environment. Micro-aggressions, being constantly undermined and poor leadership are a few of the things that make a work environment toxic. If you’re in a toxic work environment, navigate it, as best you can, until you’re able to dip. No work environment is ever going to be perfect, but it doesn’t have to be toxic. The pandemic has shown us that working from home is a highly feasible possibility and alternative to working in person.
Lack of Opportunity and Growth
If you’re reading this post, I’m assuming you’re serious about your career. In that case, you’re probably looking for opportunities and growth at work. If you’re in a situation where you’ve reached a plateau and are stagnant at work, it’s probably time for you to go. Lack of opportunity could also look like you being repeatedly passed up for promotions you’re qualified for. However, before you do, make sure you’ve explored all the opportunities at your current job, before jumping ship.
You’re Miserable
God didn’t put you on this earth to be miserable. Not every minute of every day will be a party, but misery isn’t your destiny. Working a job that makes you miserable is such a soul crushing experience. Also, when you’re miserable where you are, there’s no way you’re doing your best work. It’d be better for you to leave on your own versus being fired and trying to find a new job with a boat load of poor work performance reviews. You have nothing to gain, and everything to lose, by continuing to work a job that makes you miserable. It’s time to exit stage left.
So, if you’ve gotten this far in the post, you’re probably strongly considering leaving your job. Now what? Here are some important things to consider.
Create Your Exit Strategy
Before you leave your job, it’s best to create an exit strategy beforehand. If you have a 401k, health insurance benefits, etc. you want to know how leaving your job will impact these things. Also, if you’re married with a family, you want to discuss with your spouse how leaving your job will impact your family. It’s best to have a well thought out plan before making any moves.
Make Sure Your Money’s Right
You also want to make sure your money’s right before leaving. You’re in a better position if you have money saved before you leave, especially if you leave before having another job lined up. While I don’t recommend leaving a job before you have a job, I’ve done it myself. My situation was just that dire. Now, I will say things would’ve been easier and less stressful had I had my money right before leaving. Having several months of expenses saved, before leaving, would be ideal.
Let Your Circle Know You’re Looking
Connections are important and letting your circle know you’re looking for a new job is a must. Most people get jobs by word of mouth. I got my current job through my friend. She knew I was looking and what I was looking for. Her referral was instrumental in me getting the job. As soon as you know you’re looking to leave your job, let your people know so they can be on the lookout for you.
What are some other signs you need to leave your job? What things should you do before leaving? Drop a comment below.