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How to Know When to Quit a Job You Are Uncomfortable With

Tory Stearns
· · Updated Jan 16, 2026 · 4 min read
It would be a perfect world if we could all find a job we actually love to do. Well, we don't live in a perfect world, and sometimes we get stuck in a job that drains us of every ounce of energy and sanity we possess.

It may be impossible for you to just quit your job and walk away, but you can set things in motion so that when the time comes that you have to quit, you are not up a creek without the proverbial paddle.

 

Things You'll Need:

  • Resume
  • Access to the Internet
 

7 Steps To Know When To Quit A Job You Are Uncomfortable With

Know When to Quit a Job

1. Take A Good Look At Your Current Situation

  • Why are you uncomfortable?
  • Is there something you can do to help fix the situation?
  • Is it outside of your control?
  • Is there anything management can do, or are they part of the problem?
Look into handling the small problems first; the big ones may take care of themselves along the way. You want to try to keep things bearable until it's feasible for you to leave.

 

2. If You Know The Day İs Coming When You Will Not Be Able To Stand Another Day At Your Current Job, Reevaluate Your Career Choices

  • Do you like the work you are doing?
  • Would you be willing to take it a step further and go back to school part time?
  • Are you happy with your current level of education?
These questions may help you decide whether you want to advance yourself educationally. Check with your employer; some have programs to help pay for schooling.

 

3. If You Like What You Do But Not The People You Do İt With, The Only Solution May Be To Find Another Company Where You Can Do The Same Kind Of Work

Look into the job listings on the Internet. Sites such as Monster.com and Careerbuilder.com are excellent places to post your resume and cover letter.

They will also notify you if jobs that match your qualifications become available in your area.

 

4. Most People Can't Just Quit Their Jobs

That doesn't mean you can't be doing little things to prepare yourself for that day when you actually leave. Start saving money specifically for the time period between jobs. Get a part-time job. It may relieve some of the stress of the other job, and the pay can be set aside for the transition period.

 

5. Try To Leave Your Job At The Office

If you want to look for a different job, that's fine, but don't dwell on your present job so much that it occupies your time away from it. Do things that release the stress that builds up during the workday. It may not delay the inevitable, but at least it will make the present bearable.

 

6. In Some Cases, The Stress Of The Situation Becomes So İntolerable That You Have To Walk Away To Keep Your Health And Sanity İntact

If the thought of facing the situation starts to make you physically ill, step up your efforts to get out. Don't hang in there for the sake of it.

If it's becoming detrimental to your health, you need to leave before you get sick. High-pressure jobs can lead to heart attacks, hypertension and a variety of digestive complaints.

 

7. Don't Let Any Job Define Who You Are

You are not the job. The job is a part of who you are, but that's the extent of it. When a job becomes superimposed over other parts of your life, it's time to take a step back and set the boundaries.

Many times families suffer because employers make extensive demands on their employees. Decide how much you are willing to give up. If it's not acceptable to your company, begin to look for a different job that will allow you the time you need with your family.

 

Tips and Warnings

  • Weigh your options carefully. This is not a time for rash decisions.
  • Look at your finances. Try to shore them up a little so things don't get too tight.
  • Don't leave your current job without another one to go to, unless you absolutely can't help it.
  • Don't make things any more difficult than they already are.

    Bide your time and try not to make the situation worse.

You Might Also Like :: How to Feng Shui a Work Space

 

How to Know When to Quit a Job You Are Uncomfortable With

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Written by

Tory Stearns

Tory has been writing for over 10 years and has built a strong following of readers who enjoy his unique perspective and engaging writing style. When he's not busy crafting blog posts, Tory enjoys spending time with his friends and family, traveling, and trying out new hobbies.

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