In short, absolutely. But first I think we need to destigmatize the term “quitting” or at least change it to something that inspires less shame, such as “moving on” or “GTFO.”
People quit for a number of different reasons, but as a society we tend to look down upon quitting. We have a culture of hanging on until the bitter end, in spite of the toll whatever we are doing may be taking on our mental health, family, and happiness. But what’s the benefit of sticking something out if it’s harming you (and those that matter most) as a result?
People don’t want to be seen as a quitter. Quitting is bad. Quitting means you’re weak. You couldn’t hack it. You’re admitting failure. You’re different. In corporate or competitive environments showing weakness of any kind could jeopardize your position, chances for promotion, and social connection. So we hide unhappiness, lack of enjoyment or passion, and keep doing what we’re supposed to do, even as it saps the life out of us.
But what does this really bring us in the end? Who cares about a promo if we hate our job? Who cares about more money if it means we spend less and less time with our families or doing the things we love? Why stick with a company if working there no longer aligns with our values?
I think the other reason people don’t quit is that quitting usually means a big change is coming, and in general humans are bad at change. We stick with what we know because it’s easier than starting over. It’s easier to be unhappy than it is to change your routine. But is stagnation really better than a chance for growth and something new?
Of course I understand the very real reasons people stay – financial, security, maybe they can’t find another job or don’t have the connections to find a new job fast enough. I get it. There are a lot of reasons to stay. But if you have the means to leave and more importantly the desire I think it’s ok to give yourself permission to.
My litmus test is whether or not I am showing up for my family with my best and making time for the things I love to do. I love my family more than anything and I don’t want my work to take all of the best I have to give. I also love to write and garden and exercise and build things. I don’t want my work to take up so much of my time and energy that I don’t have anything left for the things I enjoy doing. I am a whole person, not just my job. When work eats into both of these things, it’s time for a change. That doesn’t necessarily mean quitting, but it does mean reassessing how I’m approaching both my work and my personal life to make sure they are in alignment.
I’ve quit or GTFO’d multiple times in my life. And each time it has not been an easy decision, but it has been the right one for me. I don’t think quitting should be taken lightly but I do think it’s worth considering seriously if you’re experiencing any of the above and could benefit from a change.
What do you think?
