OMG - I quit!

OMG - I quit!

I can't believe I just did this (I'm still absorbing this), but it feels GOOD. I'm terrified too, of course. But after 6 long months (I was placed into a role I didn't want) of trying my very best to win over my colleagues and manager, I'd had enough. I'm done. I kept my head held high, kept all things professional, and followed up with a written resignation to HR.

I had been so stressed and so miserable while trying to give it my all every.single.day. It felt like high school all over again - so stupid! And my physical health went downhill quickly (sleepless nights, intense stomach pain, increased blood pressure, etc.). I'd long wanted out of this role and the timing could be better (a job lined up), but sometimes you have to take charge and do what is best for YOU.

I really thought I'd happily retire from this organisation. And all looked "good" on paper (pay, proximity to home, vacation, hours, etc.) but I was dying inside too. Time to figure out what to do next.

I hope this is encouraging to ANYONE who knows when it's time, it's time... ;) You'll be ok.

Why women love us:

  • Daily articles on career topics
  • Jobs at companies dedicated to hiring more women
  • Advice and support from an authentic community
  • Events that help you level up in your career
  • Free membership, always

Share your insight

Join an authentic community that helps women support each other at work. Share your professional experience or ask for advice — you can even post anonymously.

22 Comments

Join the conversation
  1. Anonymous

    Did it.. 15 years at my job and I had had enough. Gave my two weeks scared as hell. No job to go to but it was the BEST thing I ever did!!

  2. Anonymous

    Still processing it all but I am over 50 (been there, done that) and while I have the LUXURY in having some savings (and a spouse with a decent job) I am going to take advantage of this time to learn new skills and find something better suited for me. I am too old to play around...lol

  3. Anonymous

    I’m 51. I get it.

    You got this! Life’s to short to live unhappy.

  4. JJ

    Good job! Your sanity is more important than any job. I’ve done it too and it is scary but the joy and peace that you get back will fuel your next adventure.

  5. Anonymous

    "the joy and peace that you get back will fuel your next adventure"

    This is beautiful. Thanks for sharing.

  6. Anonymous

    I want to do this but scared rent, car note, and baby on the way. But crying at the desk every morning is getting the best of me. I wake up two hours before work and think about quitting all the time, then get anxiety in my stomach and still clock in due to bills. Still job searching

  7. SB

    I hate that for you. Been there. Baby on the way (yes, those pesky hormones...had them too) and all else esp with work is not fun. Focus on your precious little one, the time off that comes with that, and course-correct. Can you hold tight a bit longer?

  8. Anonymous

    Oh yes, the hormones are definitely high! And yes I have about 4 more month before (unpaid) maternity leave. I definitely don’t think I’ll be going back to that job. I’m definitely trying to hold on a little longer.

  9. Anonymous

    Queen.

  10. Anonymous

    Congratulations!

    A bonus you did not mention: now that you have walked out under your own power, you *know* that you can do this again, if needed.

    That gives you the gift of freedom!

  11. Anonymous

    Damned straight. :)

  12. Anonymous

    I wanted to quit with my current role - a mess.

    But something kept telling me: stick it out, it will get better and HAS!!

    I plan to retire in 20 years. My benefits are great and no job is perfect.

    Again, this is my personal situation. To each their own.

    *Plus: I was furloughed 15 months during Covid and finding THIS job as I was eventually laid off as my role was eliminated - was stressful.* No job is perfect BUT I'm working and 95% is good!!

    I hate interviews anymore!!!!

    I'm glad you found happiness, ?

  13. Anonymous

    It's a GREAT feeling when you finally land a role and you no longer have to worry about the awful job search! It sucks! I was SO grateful to have this opportunity almost a year ago but things changed along the way for me and I was forced into a spot that I didn't want. But still, I had a job. I made the best of it, gave my all (and then some) but it still didn't work out. Ce la vie. The search to happiness is underway....

  14. Anonymous

    All you can do is your best!!!

    Sometimes, it's simply not a good fit

  15. Anonymous

    I want to quit my job too. I always hear it is easier to get a job when you have a job.

    now you have me re thinking my plans. I’m single so it is even more scary.

  16. Anonymous

    I finally quit my job a few months ago and as a warning, it's difficult out there. Start making connections and updating your resume ahead of quitting so you've started the process.

    There are so many rounds of interviews so make sure you have as a safety net at least la six months savings. I was in a toxic environment while having difficulty getting time off to interview. I had already used all the types of appointments and PTO that I realized if I didn't have time to interview, I would never be able to find a new position.

    Good luck to both of you and the name of the game is connections. Make new ones, utilize old ones, apply for positions where hiring mangers and recruiters are posting on LinkedIn as you'll have a better opportunity that they are actively recruiting rather than listed and have an internal candidate.

  17. Anonymous

    Congrats OP! I've put off quitting for three weeks but I've set my absolute last day and it's coming up soon. I plan to leave before the end of August. It's terrifying because I just went through the job hunt, but I really need my energy back to focus on my next adventure. I ended up in this toxic job against my better judgment, and I won't make that mistake again. Congratulations on choosing yourself and I wish you all the best!

  18. Anonymous

    I must say that I would have ideally had another gig lined up, but I did not. I am also fortunate to have enough in a little bit of savings too. But I can't just jump into anything out of fear, as no doubt the cycle will repeat itself. It's time for me to learn new skills within a new industry and ideally, in a role that's more aligned with who I am now. BTW..I had been looking on the side but not with enough vigor as I was so tired at the end of each day. I worry about job gaps too but in my case, my health was pivotal - not the job.

  19. Audrey Kirsch

    Good for you! You should be so proud of yourself!

  20. Jessica TC Lee

    Much support!!! Hugs!!!

  21. Anonymous

    I am dealing with something similar right now.

  22. Patricia Manroe

    Thank you for your post. I'm glad you made the jump.

Fairygodboss VIP
Achieve your career goals.
Be part of the largest online career community for women to find jobs, advice, and support — for free.
Fairygodboss members