Ok we get it. You’re tired of seeing “quiet quitting” posts all over LinkedIn and TikTok.
Everyday you log onto your work laptop and feel absolute dread, wondering if you could be making better use of your time. So, why don’t you just leave already?
Sometimes it’s not that simple.
Personally, I quit my full-time job with nothing lined up. I worked in a communications role at a large corporation with over 4 years of experience in my field. How do you know when is the right time?
I knew when the work started to become stale. I felt as if my everyday contributions drove capitalism, and less of the betterment for the world around me. I needed a break. I confided in coworkers who share the same pain, but chose to ride it out for another year to build their resumé.
I, on the other hand could not bear another day.
If you’re thinking of leaving your job with nothing lined up, what should be considered?
Pros and cons
Why do you want to leave? The grass may seem greener on the other side. Perhaps your coworkers are right—things might get better after the next quarter, campaign or season.
It’s important to reflect on your career goals in order to make a clear decision.
Ask yourself important questions:
- Are there growth opportunities in your position at the company?
- Do you feel challenged and are continuously learning in your role?
- How is communication between the leadership/executive team and the overall team?
- Am I making good enough money to do the bare minimum while searching for new work? Am I willing to stay for the pay?
- How much do I have saved?
- How long am I willing to be potentially unemployed for?
From there, I like to keep a pros and cons list to justify if my decision in leaving is for my greater good in the long term, or if this decision is based on impulse. Maybe you’re simply burnt out and need a vacation.
Are you an ENFJ or Virgo like me and already have that list written down in your iPhone notes? There’s still a lot more to consider in the meantime.
Have enough saved for at least 12 months
Are you debt-free? What do your weekly/monthly expenses look like?
Make note of living expenses like rent, car payments, weekly groceries, phone/internet bills, etc.
Times have changed since we can feel stable with only 6 months of living expenses saved up. Fortunately, I lived with my parents for 3 years after graduating from university to pay off student debt and save. I currently rent in the city and when deciding to quit my job, I made sure that I had enough cushion in my savings to pull the plug.
I don’t mean to be grim, but the harsh reality is that if you don’t have at least 12 months of your living expenses saved or can live at home with your parents, you should not consider quitting your job.
Reasons you shouldn’t quit your job with nothing lined up
Hear me out, I’m not telling you to quit cold turkey. There are some considerations to keep in mind before handing in your two weeks notice.
- You’re paying for a mortgage
- You have dependants, like children or as a caregiver
- You have less than one year of experience in your role
- You’re working in a country that requires a visa
I hear you. I’m ready to quit — where do I start?
Now that you’re ready, where do you begin? The most important aspect is knowing that you are doing this for yourself. It shouldn’t matter what your friends or family think. Unless your income directly affects any dependants, quitting should ultimately be your decision.
Be honest with your manager.
Give them an exact reason as to why you decide to leave. Make it short and sweet. Don’t change your mind based on how they react (unless they are willing you give you a hefty raise). There is no need to give more than the required 2-weeks notice.
During your last two weeks, schedule coffee chats with close colleagues and exchange contact information. Keep in touch. If you’re active on LinkedIn, request a recommendation while the topic of your resignation is still hot. Nothing is more awkward than asking for a reco months after you’ve already left the company.
People move on quickly and in no time will your coworkers forget about what it was like working with you.
Keep track of your accomplishments in the role.
I like to keep track of KPIs and goals I’ve reached throughout my experience in the role. Think of highlights you would include to update your resume or LinkedIn profile. Save photos, sentiment, and key metrics for your own reference with future job interviews and opportunities. Continue to build your portfolio with every role.
Don’t feel guilty for relaxing.
Your work laptop is returned, small gifts are exchanged and you’re finally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. Don’t forget to take some time off to rest. Sleep in. Catch up with friends. Go for a 2pm stroll, just because. Pick up a new hobby, or spend more time cooking and tending to your overall well-being.
Set daily routines and habits
There are days where you will feel low. With nothing to look forward to each day, it’s important to instill daily habits to ensure you’re not oversleeping or overthinking.
Similar to working 9–5, you should have a high-level structure of your routine. Trust me, the lack of structure can ultimately lead to even more stress. With a daily routine, you’ll feel more productive and eager to tackle the day ahead.
Whether it’s updating your resume or applying to a few jobs each day, make sure you set goals to keep yourself on track.
You can do it!
Be proud of yourself. Quitting your job in general is a big feat. This leaves room for bigger and better opportunities to enter your life. Join a new community, or take a crack at a new hobby. You got this.
The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing
— Walt Disney
