Have you ever caught yourself saying, “I hate my job, or I’m miserable at work?” Leaving a job isn’t a decision that should be taken lightly. After all, it’s your livelihood. You know your dream job is out there. But, are you unsure when to quit your job?
Certainly, the ideal time for leaving a job is once you’ve secured a new one. But if your financial situation allows you to leave your job, then look for your dream job, then consider it. While you should take career planning seriously, sometimes it feels better to go with your gut.
Here are seven signs to consider when deciding if your next move is to quit your job.
The Work Environment Is Toxic
OK, there’s a difference between recognizing it’s not the perfect job and it feeling like it’s sucking the life out of you. If you dread getting up and going to work every day, you might need to find something better. Warning signs of a toxic work environment are a lack of communication or enthusiasm across the business – and even high absenteeism due to sickness. Engaged employees don’t leave companies in droves, but a toxic company culture will drive them out or cause them to call in sick due to burnout, fatigue or even stress.
The Hours Are Taking A Toll On Your Health
Millions of Americans do shift work, which is defined as any hours outside the steady 9-to-5 schedule. But alternative schedules can be bad for your health. According to WebMD, there is evidence of increased incidence of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, stomach problems and ulcers, depression and accidents and injury for shift workers. Consider if a job is worth your wellbeing.
There’s No Room For Advancement
It’s time to jump ship if you aspire to climb the corporate ladder but there’s not an opportunity for you in the near future. If you stay at a company that’s not going to help you advance your career, it will hinder your future opportunities.
You’re Unfulfilled
It might not seem like a good enough reason for leaving a job. But sometimes being complacent isn’t a sign of being good at a job and instead an indication you need a career change. Some people thrive on being able to learn new skills and try out new industries. If that’s you, embrace it! Don’t stick with something because you can do it with your eyes closed.
You’re Not Getting Paid What You’re Worth
Money shouldn’t be the only factor for quitting your job. But you should conduct an evaluation of your skillset and worth, how it compares to the market rate and propose that to your superior. Thing is, if they don’t agree to pay you within range, you know there are similar opportunities with similar responsibilities that will.
Your Boss Doesn’t Support You
You shouldn’t quit your job because your supervisor is giving you constructive feedback. That’s their job! But if they’re taking all the credit, giving you the grunt work and treating you poorly along the way, it’s probably time to cut your losses and quit your job. Your manager has power over your career success, so it’s essential to maintain a positive relationship.
Your Job Has Changed – And You’re Not Interested
With the impact of technology, many roles are evolving. And you shouldn’t just write off your job because it’s different than what it used to be. But if you don’t have an interest in evolving with the role, it’s best to leave. You don’t want to go down kicking and screaming. Additionally, if your position is becoming less important to the company or the industry, think about getting out before it becomes obsolete.
