Quitting is a Skill, Not a Weakness

Guest blogger: Kristie Santana, owner of National Coaching Academy

There is often negativity and resistance towards quitting jobs because of how many people do it incorrectly. If you’ve been worried about leaving your current job and dreading the conversations that come with quitting, there are a few easy ways you can turn your career transition into one of your strengths. Quitting gracefully is an art you can master with preparation, communication, and collaboration with a trained life coach. When you learn how to quit the right way, you’ll feel comfortable as you move closer to what you want in your career.

Be Proactive and Intentional

Don’t confuse irresponsible, last-minute quitting with strategic, intentional quitting. There is nothing wrong with seeing a change you’d like to make, taking action towards it, and communicating effectively along the way. It’s natural to evolve in your career, but it must be done right. Because there is often intimidation or negativity around quitting, your coach can help you prepare your conversation so that you maintain a good relationship with your employer and keep the connection. Another way to be intentional around quitting is to simply be clear on why you want to make the change (for example, it makes sense to quit and take a higher paying, fulfilling new job). When you understand why you’re making a change, you can plan ahead and communicate your reasons effectively.

Know What’s Next

Own your choice to quit by understanding what’s next for you. Most people who regret quitting a job simply didn’t have a rational plan in place for afterwards. Your coach is trained to anticipate this need with you and can help you set short term goals such as interviewing for new jobs, drafting your resignation, and goal-setting towards your dream career. When you are proactive and collaborate with an expert, your transition towards quitting becomes strategic rather than weak. Perhaps you can set yourself up with a few job offers before you tell your boss you’re leaving. Maybe you begin taking clients for your new business to help replace your old income.

To get an idea of what a real life coaching conversation sounds like, here’s an excellent sample coaching session.

Don’t Burn Bridges

Leaving a job with great connections in place is a strength in itself. Your network is something you build along your journey, so the skill of quitting gracefully is one you’ll need in the long term. Because these conversations can be difficult, framing your words positively and communicating effectively are exercises your coach can practice with you so that you leave with glowing references and perhaps even friends. If you can quit on good terms, you’re more skilled in career transitioning than most people.

Quitting is one of the skills you might overlook in your career, but taking advantage of a life or career coach can prepare you to make the transition seamless and positive. If you can collaborate to plan ahead, practice having the difficult conversations, and leave on good terms, you’ll be ahead of the curve and happy with your choices. Next time you’re nervous about quitting, remember how you can turn your relationships into career connections and move through jobs you love on a positive note.