5 Questions to Ask Yourself If You're Thinking of Quitting Your Job
Thinking about quitting your job? It’s a big decision, and one that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Before handing in your notice, ask yourself these five crucial questions to gain clarity, assess your options, and make the most strategic move for your future. Listen to Episode 5 of The Solo Coach Podcast for a more detailed description, with real-life examples!
1. What About the Other Areas of My Life?
It’s easy to blame job dissatisfaction for feeling unfulfilled, but have you considered how other areas of your life are impacting your overall happiness?
Take a moment to rate these eight areas of life from 1 to 10:
Romantic relationships – How fulfilling is your relationship, or how comfortable are you in your own company?
Social relationships – Are you maintaining meaningful connections with family and friends?
Fun & recreation – Do you engage in hobbies or activities simply for enjoyment?
Health & well-being – Are you prioritising sleep, exercise, and self-care?
Living arrangements – Does your home environment support your well-being?
Financial situation – Are you earning what you feel you’re worth? Are you financially stable?
Personal growth – Are you challenging yourself to grow and learn?
Career satisfaction – Are you using your strengths and enjoying your work?
Once you’ve assessed these areas, consider: Is quitting your job the right solution, or are other areas of your life in need of improvement too?
2. What Is My Vision for My Life?
Fast forward 1, 5, or even 10 years—where do you see yourself? Are you on track to get there, or are you working towards a future that doesn’t align with your dreams?
A common realisation is that people feel like they’re on a flight headed to a destination they don’t actually want to reach. If that’s you, it might be time to disembark and chart a new course.
3. When Was the Last Time I Enjoyed Work?
Think back to your last truly fulfilling workday. How long ago was it? What made it enjoyable? And what’s changed since then?
Sometimes, the issue isn’t the job itself, but a loss of connection with what made it enjoyable in the first place. Have you moved into a role that no longer aligns with your strengths or passions? Is there a way to rediscover that spark before making a drastic decision?
4. Are the Right People Aware, or Am I Suffering in Silence?
Who have you voiced your concerns to? It’s common to vent to friends and family—who can’t change your situation—while staying silent at work.
Before making a decision, consider:
Have you communicated your dissatisfaction to your manager?
Have you explored opportunities for change within your company (e.g., internal transfers)?
Have you proposed solutions rather than just focusing on the problems?
Speaking up could lead to unexpected opportunities that make quitting unnecessary.
5. How Can I Be Strategic About This Decision?
If you’re certain about leaving, plan your exit strategically:
Test the waters – Could you take a sabbatical or part-time work to explore other options?
Look for internal opportunities – Could a role shift within your company provide a better fit?
Maintain good relationships – Avoid burning bridges; you never know when past connections might help you in the future.
Prepare financially – Ensure you have savings or another job lined up before making the leap.
A bonus question to consider: Who can I reach out to for support? Whether it’s a recruiter, a mentor, a professional in your desired field, or a career coach, having guidance can make the transition smoother and more successful.
Final Thoughts
Quitting your job isn’t just about leaving—it’s about moving toward something better. By asking yourself these five questions, you’ll gain clarity on whether quitting is the right choice and how to do it in the smartest way possible.
If you’re feeling stuck and want help making this decision, let’s chat. I’d love to support you in navigating this journey.
David Garwood
The Solo Coach
