- Reasons People Consider Quitting a Job
- What the Bible Says About Work and Motivation
- Before You Quit: Have a Direct Conversation with Your Boss
- Explore Internal Opportunities Before Leaving
This famous title song from The Clash (1982) sums up what many in today’s workforce are thinking:
Should I stay or should I go…
This indecision’s bugging me
If you don’t want me, set me free…
Come on and let me know
Should I cool it or should I blow
In the years following the pandemic, millions wrestled with that same question. During the “Great Resignation” of 2021, more than 3.9 million people per month were quitting their jobs. Today, that number has dropped to about 3.1 million a month, closer to pre-pandemic levels, yet many workers still find themselves questioning their fit, growth, and purpose at work.
The reasons vary – low pay, toxic bosses, lack of growth, or simply feeling stuck. If you’re asking yourself, “Should I quit my job?” you’re not alone.
Reasons People Consider Quitting a Job
Common Reasons to Leave Your Employer
- Compensation that doesn’t match your value
- Frustration with leadership or company culture
- Lack of career development opportunities
- A desire for more meaningful or enjoyable work
Why Lack of Growth Opportunities Matters
Even if you believe in your company’s mission and like your boss, the absence of clear advancement paths can leave you questioning your future.
What the Bible Says About Work and Motivation
Quitting Your Job With the Right Motives
Scripture warns against selfish ambition (Phil. 2:3, Rom. 2:8) but encourages us to work wholeheartedly for the Lord (Col. 3:23). If you’re seeking a new role, ask yourself whether your motives align with God’s calling and the good works He prepared for you (Eph. 2:10).
Before You Quit: Have a Direct Conversation With Your Boss
How to Talk to Your Supervisor About Career Growth
Supervisors can’t help if they don’t know what you want. Schedule a meeting to:
- Share your career goals
- Ask how your performance is being evaluated
- Explore pathways to more responsibility or advancement
Why Performance Reviews Aren’t Enough
Annual reviews often lack detail about growth opportunities. Proactively asking questions can uncover next steps you might not have considered.
Explore Internal Opportunities Before Leaving
How Networking Within Your Company Can Open Doors
Sometimes the best next role isn’t at another employer — it’s just a department away. Take time to connect with colleagues in other teams to learn:
- What their roles involve
- What skills are required
- Whether there are projects you could volunteer for
Internal Job Postings and Stretch Assignments
Look for posted openings or offer help on cross-functional projects. These “extra” experiences often lead to new roles, fresh challenges, and long-term growth.
Should You Stay or Leave Your Job?
Sometimes it truly is easier to leave and start fresh. But with the right mindset and effort, opportunities to grow may be closer than you think — maybe just a cubicle away.
Dave Sparkman currently serves as the volunteer Crossroads Career board chair and local ministry leader. He is also the founder and managing director of Spark Your Culture, a corporate culture consulting firm. Prior to that he worked at UnitedHealth Group, a Fortune #5 public company, serving in the role of Chief Culture Officer. His unemployment experience came from the implosion of Arthur Andersen, where he served as the West Region Managing Partner, People.
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