*it’s an art* How NOT to Quit Something

This may be controversial, but I believe in quitting.

Sometimes, it is necessary to quit things that are not serving us. This includes jobs, relationships, groups, and volunteer activities. The truth is that sometimes quitting is the healthiest option. Quitting can be a good way to exit a bad situation or seek a new, exciting one.

However, HOW you quit is everything.

Recently, one of my college interns quit after she missed several deliverables and I provided her with some tough feedback. She quit by sending me a text, that read:

That was it.

While I wish this young woman well, this is NOT how you quit something. Quitting in this manner (abrupt, unprofessional) closes doors. As you move through life, you want to cast your net wide and expand your possibilities, not limit them.

Of course, there are valid reasons for quitting: your interests have shifted, you received a better offer, the job didn’t line up with expectations, you're moving, switching careers, or simply want a change of pace.

So, if you're thinking about quitting, follow these steps to quit with grace and integrity:

1. Be Sure of Your Decision: Reflect and ensure that quitting is the right choice. Ask yourself: Am I leaving because of temporary issues or long-term dissatisfaction? Could these issues be resolved or do I need to seek a new opportunity? If leaving because of a hard situation- might I learn more if I stay and work through this hard situation? If possible, discuss your decision with a mentor or coach. Be honest, realistic, and kind to yourself during this process.
2. Think Ahead: Have a plan in place for what comes next, whether it’s another job, further education, or time off.

1. Communicate Professionally: Inform your supervisor in person, if possible, and provide a written notice. PS. Texting this decision is not professional. 

Here’s an email template you may use:

“I am writing to notify you of my intent to leave as of {DATE}. This was a difficult decision to make, as I greatly appreciate the professional and personal development opportunities you have provided me during my time here. I am grateful for the support, guidance, and encouragement that I have received from you and the entire team. I will do everything possible to ensure a smooth transition. Please let me know how I can assist in transferring my responsibilities or training my replacement. I am committed to a smooth transition.”

1. Give Notice and Finish Strong: Provide ample notice (at least two weeks) and commit to a smooth transition. Complete your remaining tasks and help with the transition process to leave on a positive note.

1. Stay Positive: Focus on the positive experiences and express gratitude for the opportunities you’ve had. Be cautious about sharing negative feedback or reviews with peers. It is a small world, after all.

PS. Resist the urge to quiet quit. Staying in a situation where you feel undervalued or uninspired is not a good solution. If your situation isn’t serving you, your best option in most cases is to be honest with yourself — and others — and quit.

Let me assure you that it is possible to quit and still salvage a healthy relationship with your former employer - If you follow the steps above and maintain contact with your former employer and colleagues. Knowing how to quit well is a valuable career skill. Let your former manager know where you land. Networking is valuable, and staying connected can lead to future opportunities. ✨

Finally, don’t think of quitting as a failure. Say you tried karate but didn’t like it and quit. (Think) Congrats on being brave and trying something new! Similarly, quitting a job is not a failure; it's a step towards finding the right path where your skills and passions truly align.

Would love to hear your stories or best practices on how to quit well below! - Sheri

📚 Summer reading! The Many Lives of Mama Love by Lara Love Hardin, Atomic Habits by James Clear

📺 Hacks, Sn 3

✨ Shine On Scholars: These women - both the Shine On Scholars and the Shine On Giving Circle - are remarkable! Keep shining your light, ladies! Julianna S. Julia Ghagare Sarafia Mughwai Ruth-Ann B. Rhaili-Em Lowe Christy DeSantis Nadjasmine Rene