Why I'm quitting out loud (again)
At the beginning of 2018, I quit a very good job to travel the world. Now, at the beginning of 2023, I’m doing it again. Why?
To travel. I’m passionate about hiking and spending time outdoors. I don’t want to wait until retirement to enjoy that, especially considering I might not be able-bodied. Or even alive, for that matter.
To get perspective. How do I fall into the trap of living my life according to someone else’s blueprint? Because I don’t take enough time to step back and take stock of what’s working, what’s not, and what’s important.
To find a job more closely aligned with my purpose. I know no job is perfect. We Millennials get in trouble by expecting our jobs to be our all—our identity, community, sense of fulfillment, and way to make a difference in the world. At the same time, I want to live a life aligned with my values, and that includes the 40+ hours each week at work.
I recognize I am economically advantaged, and not everyone can afford to turn down employment, especially a salaried position. I’m not recommending anyone quit their job and book a flight!
But I will say…
The U.S. has a pitiful work-life balance and PTO options compared to its peer nations.
There’s no shame in admitting, “this isn’t working for me,” but I could have regrets if I didn’t. (Living the life others expect of you is a top 5 deathbed regret.)
The saying “quitters never win” has given us an unhealthy definition of resilience. Poker champion Annie Duke challenges this idea with two simple questions:
Imagine it's a year from now, and you're still in the same job. What’s the chance you’ll be happy?
Say you quit this job and get another job. Imagine it's a year from now. What’s the chance you'll be happy?
So if I’m reasonably confident I won’t be happy at my current job, any chance—even a 50/50 toss-up—has a higher probability of happiness.
Wasn’t this true in 2018 when I quit before? So why didn’t I learn the first time?
Yes, absolutely. I had every intention of finishing my travels, finding a climate-centric job, and following in my parents’ footsteps—growing within a company that offers development opportunities. But candidly, I was pivoting in my career and needed more relevant experience. So I took what I could get. Now, I’m revisiting my long-term career goals and quitting with more confidence that I can land the job I’ve been looking for.
So what’s next for me?
I’m off to Chile for a month to do some backpacking, photography, and reflection. I’m letting go of what doesn’t serve me and recommitting to what’s important. I’m embodying my agency to make the most of my next job, knowing that my happiness is my responsibility. I’m hoping to find a job that will challenge me and empower me to be a part of the climate solution. And I’m investing in all other aspects of my life—passions, loved ones, community, well-being—so that my work is only one part of my identity.
What’s next for you?
