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5 Things To Do Before Quitting Your Job

Are you in a dead-end job? Perhaps you are underemployed? Is it a struggle to pull yourself out of bed each morning and get to work? It might be time to quit your job.

Quitting a job that pays well, has good benefits, and is relatively stable is hard to do, especially in today’s economic climate. However, if you’re unhappy or if you aren’t where you want to be, then it might be time to consider doing something else.

Have you ever woken up and wondered what you were doing with your life? Did you feel like you were stuck in a haze, unsure of what you were doing to make a difference each day? Unmotivated to work hard? It’s pretty much a recipe for disaster.

If you’re scared to quit your job, remember that being unhappy, inefficient, and unpleasant in the workforce will do much more detriment to your career than quitting ever will. So if you are finding each day a struggle and you aren’t sure where to turn next, before up and quitting your job, try the following:

1. Research what it is about your job that you don’t like.

Make a list of the things about your job you enjoy and the things you would change given the opportunity. This way when you start hunting for your new job you will know exactly what to look for.

2. Figure out what your skills are.

It’s very important to know what you are good at and what you are bad at. Make yet another list of the qualities and skills you possess that can help you be amazing at your job.

Don’t know where to start? The best thing to do is to ask someone close to you what they think your skills are.

3. Sharpen your saw.

If you’ve been out of school for a little while chances are you’ve fallen a bit behind when it comes to your skills. Take an online course on a topic that interests you, there are lots of free ones out there. Plus you can put this on your resume as continuing education.

4. Save some money.

If you plan on quitting by a certain time you may want to stash away a couple of months worth of pay, just in case it take you longer than you originally thought to find a job.

If you are waiting to quit until you have a new job you may still want to sock a bit of extra cash away incase you want to start a job that pays a little less. This way you can pursue your dream career without it affecting your bank account.

5. Tell your network.

Your weak ties are the most likely connections that will help you find a job. Mention that while you have no firm plans on quitting your current position you would be interested in pursuing a new position. You never know who might surprise you with your dream job… all you have to do is ask.

Quitting is scary, but if you take these five steps, or really any combination of them, you will be well on your way to finding a career you love.

About the Author

Janine Eccleston

Janine is a tax specialist and personal finance blogger for Calgary, AB. She is actively pursuing her CPA designation while fighting her way to financial freedom. She is the Vice-President External for the not-for-profit Her Success and enjoys sharing her financial knowledge with her peers. When she is not at work or studying Janine enjoys traveling, baking, yoga and ending off the day with a glass of wine.

Website: mypenniesmythoughts.com