Understanding Your Readiness to Leave a Job

As I started my week on Monday, anxiety began to creep in. My manager was returning from a two-week vacation, leaving me questioning whether he would view my recent performance positively or wonder about my productivity during his absence. While I knew he likely wouldn’t assume I had been idle, my mind wasn’t thinking rationally.

In the midst of this turmoil, I checked my personal email and saw an intriguing subject line: "Second Round Interview — Last Chance." I had applied on impulse to a startup accelerator that promised to connect me with ambitious peers and possibly provide initial funding. The excitement of the first interview quickly faded when I discovered that participation required me to resign from my job—no leaves of absence or extended vacations allowed. It demanded full dedication, and I didn’t feel prepared for that commitment.

Although I don’t love my job anymore—especially after a significant reorganization last year—I recognize that it still holds merit. It’s a respectable position, offers a competitive salary, and I have great colleagues I consider friends. However, since the reorganization, the environment has shifted towards a more top-down approach. Bureaucracy has increased, project opportunities have dwindled, and overall morale is low. The company seems disconnected from my role.

Having pondered quitting for nearly a year, I find myself yearning for a break and a chance to explore new avenues. Yet, I still feel unprepared for the leap. Will I ever feel ready?

From conversations with others who left their jobs to pursue their passions, I learned that many weren’t as brave as I had imagined. Most had faced layoffs and opted to explore entrepreneurship instead of seeking new employment. If they hadn’t lost their jobs, would they still be working in their corporate roles?

While I’m weary of my office job, the security it offers is difficult to let go of. Quitting would bring a mix of relief, freedom, stress, and anxiety. I know I could manage it, but the timing doesn’t feel right.

When I received the invitation for the second round interview, I felt torn. I was thrilled that they recognized my potential, yet the thought of having to resign was daunting. To avoid confronting this reality, I closed my email and postponed scheduling the next interview.

As the days passed, the reminder to confirm my interest arrived. I responded that I didn’t see any available slots to schedule, which was true at that moment, and was advised to check back later. However, I didn’t follow up.

Now, more than a week had gone by when the final reminder hit my inbox. I was prompted to express my continued interest, or my application would be closed. Why did this message cause such unease?

What was I truly afraid of? Was it the fear of failing the interview, or was it the fear of succeeding, which would force me to make a tough decision? Perhaps there’s still a chance for a third round interview, so I shouldn’t jump to conclusions too quickly.

I decided to take a leap of faith. I scheduled the second round interview.

In this insightful video, "How to Know When to Leave Your Job (Quit Your Job)," viewers can explore signs and strategies for making the difficult decision to leave a job.

The video titled "5 Signs You Should Quit Your Job | What to do next!" provides guidance on recognizing when it’s time for a career change and what steps to take afterward.