When to Leave a Job

Every job has hard seasons. Frustration, conflict, and disappointment are normal parts of work. But there's a difference between a hard season and a dead end. Knowing when to push through and when to move on is one of the most consequential career skills you can develop. Both staying too long and leaving too soon have real costs.

The goal isn't to run from difficulty but to recognize when leaving serves your growth better than staying.

Signs It Might Be Time

• Values conflict: You're asked to compromise what matters most
• No growth path: You've hit a ceiling with no way forward
• Health impact: The job is destroying your physical or mental health
• Toxic environment: The culture is genuinely damaging
• Persistent misalignment: Your strengths aren't valued or used
• You've checked out: Going through motions with no engagement

Don't make a permanent decision based on temporary emotions. A bad week isn't a reason to quit. But if you've been miserable for a year, that's data. Pay attention to patterns, not just moments.

Before You Decide

Exhaust internal options: Different role, different team, different approach?

Get outside perspective: Trusted advisors can see what you can't.

Check your motives: Running from or running toward?

Consider timing: Financial runway, market conditions, family situation.

Have a plan: Leaving is easier when you know where you're going.

Your Action Steps

This week: Honestly evaluate: Are you in a hard season or a dead end?

This month: Explore whether internal changes could address the issues.

This quarter: If leaving is right, build a plan and timeline.