How do I know if I should quit or realign?

If a proper rest period restores motivation, it's likely burnout; if the core work still feels empty after rest, it's misalignment and a role shift may be wiser.

What is a smart resignation?

Leave with a clean handover, clear dates, a positive narrative, and maintained relationships. Share a 30/60/90 transition outline and gratitude.

Do I need to upskill first?

Often no. Start by clarifying the outcomes you want to own, then learn the smallest missing skills to ship a proof-of-work.

Does ATS still matter?

Yes. Many firms still filter via ATS. Keep clean formatting and outcome-led bullets, then pair it with a human story and relevant artifact.

I Want to Quit My Job — Now What?

If you’re waking up with dread, stuck in meetings that don’t matter, or asking “Is this it?” you’re not alone. The question isn’t just quit or stay—it’s what are you moving toward? This guide gives you a clear, calm path forward.

Professional considering a career crossroads

You’re Not Lazy — You’re Out of Alignment

Burnout often heals with rest. Misalignment doesn’t. After a real break, if the core work still feels empty, you likely need redirection—not just recovery.

Burnout: exhaustion that improves with rest
Misalignment: chronic “why am I doing this?” despite rest

Deep dive: Recovering from Burnout · Midlife Career Crisis

Quit Decision Scorecard (Quick Check)

Score each 1–5. If your total ≤ 10, try redesigning before resigning. If ≥ 16, plan an exit.

Meaning: does your work connect to values?
Energy: do key tasks give or drain energy?
Growth: are you learning what you want to master?
Agency: can you influence priorities and trade-offs?

Want help mapping this? Try the WisGrowth discovery prompts.

Paths Forward: Redesign • Realign • Resign

Redesign (stay, change the seat): Re-scope responsibilities toward your strengths; negotiate 1–2 high-leverage projects.
Realign (new seat, same ladder): Internal move or adjacent role (e.g., ops → product ops, support → research).
Resign (new ladder): Leave with a plan, proof-of-work, and strong references.

Smart Resignation: 30/60/90 Exit Plan

Draft your story: “I’m moving toward X outcomes” (not “away from Y boss”).
Create handover: owners, deadlines, risks, docs, and SOP links.
Protect relationships: thank collaborators; share availability windows.
Update resume + LinkedIn: outcome-led bullets; then run an ATS scan.
Ship proof-of-work: a 1–2 page artifact showing how you drive results. (Not sure how? ATS + beyond)

WisGrowth Isn’t a Quiz. It’s a Mirror.

We map your energy patterns, not just your keywords, and recommend roles where you don’t have to fake motivation.

Working style & ideal environments
Hidden strengths that actually energize you
Identity-aligned role suggestions + next skills

Take the Clarity Quiz

“You’re not too old to reinvent. You’re too wise to stay stuck.”

In your 30s, 40s, or 50s, you’re not late—you’re clearer. Choose growth over guilt.

Real Users. Real Reset.

Aarav left 14 years in finance by shipping a customer insights teardown. Mansi reframed burnout into a design-teaching path after spotting her “explain & coach” pattern. Small artifacts, big doors.

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