18 Good Reasons for Leaving a Job and How to Communicate Them

Whether you’re thinking about leaving or have already decided, it’s normal to wonder if you’re leaving for a good reason. You might also worry about how you’ll break the news to your boss: will they think you have a good reason? How do you explain without overexplaining?

In this post, we’ll cover what a good reason to leave really means, who’s leaving their jobs right now, and 18 solid reasons for leaving. We’ll also include explanations for your current and potential new bosses, along with what not to say.

And then, we’ll explore how to put in your notice and figure out your next move — even in a difficult job market.

Let’s go!

What’s a Good Reason for Leaving a Job?

Any reason you can’t stop thinking about is a good reason for leaving a job. But “good” is subjective: a good reason from your perspective isn’t always the same as a good reason from your employer’s perspective.

While there’s likely to be some overlap, you and your employer might not agree on what constitutes “a good reason to leave.” Here’s what that doesn’t mean:

• It doesn’t mean you should rage-quit the next time you’re upset.
• It doesn’t mean you should no-show or skirt your responsibilities.
• It doesn’t mean you should tell your boss the unfiltered version of how you’re feeling.
• It doesn’t mean you should ignore the downsides of leaving.

But here’s what it does mean:

• It means you’re frustrated, exhausted, or stuck, and it’s not getting better.
• It means that anything your manager could support you with is worth talking about, even if you still plan to quit soon — because a better work environment will be healthier for you in the meantime.
• It means you deserve not to HATE your work.
• It means it’s time to start figuring out what comes next — and making an action plan to quit with confidence.

You’re unhappy, and that’s valid, and you should do something about it.

What’s a Good Reason to Say You’re Leaving a Job (or Why You Left Your Last Job)?

Your own good reason for leaving a job will not often sound like a good reason to your current boss — or to your new one. For example, say you’re leaving a job because of a toxic work environment.

• What You Say: “This workplace feels/felt toxic, so it’s time for me to move on.”
• What Your Current Boss Hears: “You suck as a boss, I wish I never worked here, and I don’t need a reference.”
• What A Potential Employer Hears: “I don’t work well with others, and if you hire me, I’m going to complain a lot.”

I’m not saying this is right, good, or fair. But it’s important to face reality! Sometimes, that means working with the system to get what you ultimately want.

That’s exactly why I wrote this article — to help you frame your real, valid reasons for leaving a job in palatable ways that your current and future employers will respect.

This allows you to finally quit the place you’ve been wanting to leave for years, without burning bridges behind you or torching opportunities in front of you.

Who’s Leaving a Job Soon? Research and Stats

According to Monster, 43% of surveyed workers plan to quit in 2026 — more than 2 in 5 workers!

But even if you aren’t planning to leave your company, unfortunately, you may not have a choice. A survey by Resume.org revealed that 60% of surveyed US companies expect to have layoffs in 2026.

If you were laid off today, what would your next move be? And what would you want your next move to be?

If you’d answer those questions differently, now is the perfect time to bridge the gap! Check out this post to discover your ideal career path: Want a Change of Careers? 10 Steps to Clarity

18 Good Reasons for Leaving a Job (by Category)

Is your reason for leaving a “good reason”? How should you explain it to your current boss when you quit — or to a potential new boss during a job interview?

I’ve categorized the common reasons for quitting; here are quick links so you can jump to the reasons that fit you best!

Personal and Professional Development

1. You don’t find the work challenging or engaging

2. You want more career growth and advancement

3. You want better compensation

4. You want a role that’s more specialized or generalized than the company offers

5. You’ve been offered a better opportunity

6. You want to go back to school

Career Change and Exploration

7. You’re no longer interested in the work (or never were)

8. You want to explore a new industry

Company-Specific Reasons

9. Your role doesn’t match the job description or your expectations

10. You’re misaligned with the organization: leadership, company values, company culture, or the work environment

11. Your position was eliminated or majorly reshaped (layoffs, company restructuring, mergers and acquisitions)

12. You were fired

Personal and Family Circumstances

13. Your family circumstances require a change in your career

14. You have personal issues or health issues that require a change

15. You’re burnt out and/or pursuing better work-life balance

16. You’re relocating (or the company is)

17. You want to switch work environments in a way your company can’t support (in-person, remote, or hybrid)

18. You want to switch from full-time to part-time or contract, or vice-versa

Here we go!

Personal and Professional Development

1. You don’t find the work challenging or engaging

Maybe you’re overqualified for your role, or underworked and bored. Either way, if what you want for your future isn’t something your employer offers, it’s a completely valid reason to move on.

What to Say

• Current Job (Boss and HR): “I really appreciate everything this company has done for me. Now, I’m ready for a new and different challenge!”
• Job Search (Job Applications and Interview Answers): “After [number of years] getting the most out of my last role, I’m ready to flex my ambition and take on a new challenge!”

What NOT to Say

• “I’m bored.”
• “I’m just not interested in what this company does.”
• “I keep asking for new work and you haven’t given me anything.”
• Instead of complaining or placing blame, simply show gratitude and take ownership over the next step of your career journey.

2. You want more career growth and advancement

If your employer doesn’t offer a role with more responsibility, a suitable promotion, or enough learning and growth opportunities, you’re totally justified in moving on.

What to Say

• Current Job: “I’ve learned so much here, and I’m eager to keep learning! While we’ve talked about the available opportunities here, I’ve realized I’m ready for a different adventure with more responsibility.”
  • This response assumes you’ve spoken with your employer previously and haven’t reached an agreement.
• Job Search: “I got exactly what I needed from my last role, and eventually, I outgrew the opportunities at [last company]. I’m ready to grow and thrive in a new environment.”

What NOT to Say

• “This company is holding me back.”
• “I keep getting ignored for promotions.”
• “[Coworker] got promoted, but I deserved it more.”
• Instead of letting ego or competition rule, remember: you’ve already made your decision. Just clearly restate your needs and your plan.

3. You want better compensation

Whether it’s better pay or benefits, bonuses, 401(k) match, or something else, wanting a different compensation package than your employer is willing to offer is definite grounds for leaving a job.

What to Say

• Current Job: “While I appreciate you working with me to look for solutions, I need a role that offers [the compensation you want], so it’s time for me to move on.”
  • Ideally, you’ve already spoken with your manager and/or HR about your compensation goals to rule out an agreeable solution.
• Job Search: “I really appreciate your competitive compensation — it shows your commitment to company culture and taking care of your team!”

What NOT to Say

• “I’m worth way more than you’re willing to pay me.”
• “If you don’t give me [the compensation you want], I quit.”
• “My friend makes way more at their company.”
• Compensation can be a sensitive topic. But in discussions with current and potential employers, it’s best to keep emotion out of the equation. Present your expectations, then decide whether the offer fits your needs.
• Bonus Tip: Don’t share your past compensation in job applications or interviews. Oftentimes, you can earn more than you think at a new organization — unless they have your previous salary as leverage.

4. You want a role that’s more specialized or generalized than the company offers

You’re a “jill of all trades,” but you’re ready to focus on a specific topic, product, or service. Or, you’re tired of working on the same projects — you’re ready for more variety. If your employer is too specialized or too broad, it might not fit your goals.

What to Say

• Current Job: “I’ve realized that the company’s mission, while inspiring, isn’t a fit for my long-term career goals. I’m eager to pursue [more specialized / more general] work instead.”
• Job Search: “While I learned so much in my last role, I’m ready to expand my skills (for generalist -> specialist) / focus my talents (for specialist -> generalist) in a different direction — and your company feels like a perfect fit.”

What NOT to Say

• “The work is the same every day; it’s so monotonous.”
• “I want to focus on [x], but you keep forcing me to do [y].”
• This work may not be right for you, but it could be somebody’s dream job — maybe even your manager’s. You want to do something different, but that doesn’t mean what the company does is pointless or wrong. So stick to the facts!

5. You’ve been offered a better opportunity

Congratulations! A more inviting role has come along, and you’re ready to accept. No one could argue that that’s a bad reason to quit. But how do you break the news graciously?

What to Say

• Current Job: “I’m so grateful for everything you’ve done for me over the years. But I have some news: I’ve accepted an offer from [new organization], and my last day will be [last day].”
  • Before saying anything, vet the new company, review and accept the offer, and sign your contract. Only loop in your current boss once the new role is official (so it won’t be rescinded, leaving you without a job).
• Job Search: Don’t accept a role or sign a contract before you understand the full details of the position, including title, job description, compensation and benefits, contract details, and expected start date. Until then, just say, “Thank you so much! I’ll review your offer details and get back to you by [date] with any questions.”

What NOT to Say

• “I think I’m about to get a job offer, so consider this my two weeks’ notice period.”
• “They said the position is mine if I want it, so here’s my resignation.”
• “Wow, thanks for the offer — I accept!”
• Basically, if you don’t want to be unexpectedly unemployed, don’t quit before your new job is official — and don’t accept your new job until you know the contract meets your expectations.

6. You want to go back to school

Whether you want to learn new skills for your current field or kick off a career change, going back to school is a good reason to leave a job. That can be true whether you’re going full time or part time — it all depends on your priorities and financial plan.

What to Say

• Current Job: “I’ve decided to go back to school — and I want to give it my all. So it’s time for me to resign and focus on my education.”
• Job Search:
  • For part-time, temporary, or fractional work while in school, say, “I’m in school for [area of focus], and I feel [potential company] really supports my current and long-term goals because [reason it ties together].”
  • After a career break for full-time schooling, say, “It’s been important for me to focus on my education. Now that I’ve earned my [certificate/degree], I’ve gained insights and skills like [list relevant skills], which I’d love to contribute to this company.”
• Bonus Tip: If you went to school for a career change, don’t discount your transferable skills! No matter what your new position is, your previous experience will be a unique asset to the role. It’s all about how you package it.

What NOT to Say

• “I’m not learning anything here, so I’m giving up and going back to school.”
• “There’s no future for me here; I need learning opportunities you don’t offer.”
• “I know I don’t have much/any experience, but I just got out of school and I think I’ve learned a lot.”
• Going back to school is a positive thing. Help your employer see it that way; you’ll retain a useful reference for re-entering the workforce. After school for a career change, you might feel entry-level — but that’s not really true. Your previous roles and combined experiences create unique value, and it’s up to you to sell your worth.

Career Change and Exploration

7. You’re no longer interested in the work (or never were)

Just because you’re good at what you do — and you enjoy the fact that you’re good at it — doesn’t mean you actually enjoy the work. So whether your work used to interest you or not, it’s a good reason to move on from your current position.

What to Say

• Current Job: “It’s time for me to pursue a role that better fits my long-term interests.”
• Job Search: “I realized that my professional growth relied on pursuing something that really aligns with my interests — like the work you do here.”

What NOT to Say

• “I never really cared about this work.”
• “My last position really didn’t interest me, so I’m just looking to get away from it.”
• You can absolutely stay honest about the fact that you’re looking for more interesting work! Just avoid speaking negatively about the industry or your employer. Instead, lean toward the excitement of your new path.

8. You want to explore a new industry

Sometimes, it’s about more than moving on from one company or one role. While our identities can feel strongly tied to the work we do, changing careers can open up a whole new world for your personal interests and professional life.

What to Say

• Current Job: “I’m at a turning point in my career, and I’m ready to pivot to a different field.”
• Job Search: “I’m grateful for my time in [previous industry]. And I know that the knowledge, strengths, and past experiences I’ve gained have uniquely prepared me for [new industry].”
  • Be prepared to share specific examples of how your past and future career paths complement each other.

What NOT to Say

• “I’m just desperate to do something different. You get it, right?”
• “[Previous industry] was fun for a while, but I wish I’d skipped it and gone straight to [new industry] instead.”
• Your career shift is personal; it’s not a reason to disparage the industry or your current company. Also, new employers don’t want to hear you dwell on past experiences! Instead, share how you turn those experiences into growth opportunities.

Company-Specific Reasons

9. Your role doesn’t match the job description or your expectations

A Lucy Todd Coaching newsletter subscriber shared that after just 3 months in her new role, it became clear that the description of the role didn’t match reality. If this has happened to you, it’s a perfectly acceptable reason to move on.

What to Say

• Current Job: “When accepting this role, I was excited about the prospect of [specific details of the role description]. I understand that needs change, but since my duties don’t match that initial description, I’m ready to move on.”
  • Before resigning, speak with your manager and/or HR about the issue to see if you can find a solution.
• Job Search: “My former employer realized that the role they really needed was different from the role I was initially offered. After talking, we agreed that it made the most sense for me to pursue a new position.”

What NOT to Say

• “This is a bait-and-switch!”
• “My previous company wasn’t honest with me; they changed the role after I joined, so I left.”
• As with many of these examples, you get the drift — avoid focusing on the negative or placing blame. Instead, emphasize the path you took to attempt resolution, focusing on your communication and professional interests.

10. You’re misaligned with the organization: leadership, company values, company culture, or the work environment

Maybe your new supervisor plays favorites — and you aren’t one of them. Or you’re passionate about environmental rights and working for an oil company. Or your coworkers are gossipy and seem to have it out for you. In any case, if you can’t get along with your team, boss, or the larger company, it may be time to leave.

What to Say

• Current Job:
  • If you’ve already accepted a new offer, say, “I received an offer that was too tempting to pass up, and I’ve accepted.”
  • If you’re changing careers, say, “I’ve realized it’s time for me to make a bigger career shift!” You aren’t lying, and you get to leave in peace.
• Job Search: No matter how bad the situation was at your previous company, interviewers don’t want to hear it. They’ll think you’re a complainer, “not a team player,” or likely to hate them just as much as you hated your last job. So if this comes up in interview questions, use your secondary reason for leaving — professional growth, entering a new industry, etc.

What NOT to Say

• “I’ve tried, but I just can’t handle your management style.”
• “My last company was toxic; there was a lot of favoritism.”
• Avoid focusing on the negatives; give an amicable reason for leaving and emphasize your excitement for your next move.

11. Your position was eliminated or majorly reshaped (layoffs, company restructuring, mergers and acquisitions)

Your valid reason for leaving a job might be handed to you — in the form of a demotion, changing role requirements, or a layoff. Layoffs are increasingly common — in fact, 2025 saw the most layoffs since the COVID-19 pandemic. Many employers have gone through multiple rounds of layoffs in recent year. Even if you aren’t laid off, anticipating layoffs is a smart reason to leave.

What to Say

• Current Job:
  • If your job responsibilities have changed and there are no other appealing opportunities within your company, say: “Unfortunately, the changes to my position don’t match my professional goals. I’ve decided to move on.”
  • If you’ve been laid off, you don’t need to say much. Ask any questions you have about severance and timing. Depending on your career goals, you can ask for a reference, or even for direct referrals. Some severance packages include outplacement services to help you land your next role.
• Job Search: “I really enjoyed working with my former employer, but unfortunately, I was affected by widespread layoffs. I’m looking forward to a new opportunity where my [specific skills, e.g., strategic thinking, leadership talents] will help elevate the company.”

What NOT to Say

• “You’re firing me?! How can you do this to me?”
• “There were layoffs at my last company, and I guess I didn’t make the cut.”
• Layoffs aren’t the same as being fired, and they’re rarely due to personal circumstances; they’re usually a budgetary decision made at the executive level. That doesn’t make it any easier, though. You’ll have tons of emotions, and your feelings are so, so valid. But vocalizing them in the moment won’t change the outcome or even make you feel better. Likewise, to an interviewer, framing your layoff as a personal attack feels immature and signals low confidence.

12. You were fired

First, let’s clear this up: getting laid off is not the same as getting fired! So says the Washington State Employment Security Department (but this applies to man other states, too)

You were only “fired” if you were terminated without notice or severence, they cite some wrongdoing as cause for termination, and they probably plan to fill your position with someone else. If your position or department was eliminated, usually due to budgetary reasons, and they won’t immediately rehire for it, you were NOT fired — you were laid off. The language makes a big difference to potential employers, so don’t sell yourself short.

If you were fired, you don’t have to offer up this information, but if this comes up point-blank in interview questions, don’t lie. Focus on your key takeaways, how you’re framing the experience within your long-term career goals, strategic reasons that role wasn’t the right fit, and what you hope to accomplish in a new role.

What to Say

• Current Job: “I understand. I’m sorry it wasn’t a fit, and thank you for the opportunity.”
  • If you believe discrimination occurred, speak to a lawyer ASAP!
• Job Search: The specifics will depend on the scenario, but you can say something like, “Ultimately, while I learned a lot at my last company, it wasn’t the best fit. I’m seeking a stable opportunity that allows me to focus on [insert your preferred duties and skills] while supporting team and company growth.”

What NOT to Say

• “I’m fired?! Ok, well I hate it here anyway — you guys are awful!”
• “My last job fired me, but that was a big mistake; they’re really missing out.”
• Ultimately, your entire experience at a company boils down to just a few actions you’re remembered for. The same goes for job interviews. So, in both cases, you want to leave a professional, positive impression. Even if you never see your former employer again, never use them as a reference, or never land the role where you spent the interview trashing the place that fired you… people talk. Networking creates opportunities. And what folks remember about you really matters.

Personal and Family Circumstances

13. Your family circumstances require a change in your career

Whether growing your family, navigating a loss, shifting caretaker responsibilities, or something else, changing family circumstances are one of many common personal reasons for a role change or career change. Neither current nor prospective employers should expect you to dive into more detail than you’re comfortable with.

What to Say

• Current Job:
  • If you’re uncomfortable sharing any details, say: “Due to private family reasons, I’m putting in my two weeks’ notice.”
  • If you’re close with your manager, you can share more (within reason): “My father’s death really put things in perspective, and I need some time to figure out what’s next for me; my last day will be the 14th.”
• Job Search: The same types of responses work here, too. However, since you probably don’t have a rapport with the new organization yet, consider erring on the simple side:
  • “I left my last job due to family reasons, and after some personal time to recoup, I’m ready for a new role.”
  • You’re entitled to privacy, so if invasive questions arise, feel free to say, “That’s a sensitive topic for me; I’d prefer not to go into more detail.”

What NOT to Say

• Don’t say anything more than you’re comfortable with. The details shouldn’t really matter to an employer! Prying is unprofessional, and if it happens, it could be a red flag about your current organization or potential future role.

14. You have personal issues or health issues that require a change

Both mental health and physical health issues take a serious toll on your ability to work. Whether commuting to the office or taking virtual meetings, work requires you to enjoy what you do (or fake it). And the more unwell you feel, the harder that is.

What to Say

• Current Job:
  • If you’d rather not share details, say: “My last day will be the 20th; I’m leaving to take care of my health,”
  • If you prefer to share a little more, that’s your choice. “I’ve been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that’s really impacting my physical and mental health. Until I find some balance, I’ve decided to stop working.”
• Job Search: Similar responses work here; keep it simple to avoid further inquiries or doubts about your abilities. “After a leave of absence for my health, I’m fully recovered and excited to get back to work.”

What NOT to Say

• As with family reasons, don’t divulge more than you’re comfortable with. The simpler your reasoning, the less opportunity for pushback, dismissal of your symptoms, or discrimination. Disability-related discrimination may be illegal, but unfortunately, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t occur.

15. You’re burnt out and/or pursuing better work-life balance

Discussing your health and personal life at work is always tricky. But when it comes to burnout and work-life balance, there’s a sinister tendency to blame the employee instead of the employer. For your own peace of mind, simplicity is usually best.

What to Say

• Current Job: “I’ve decided to [take a break, pursue a new opportunity], and my last day will be next Friday.”
  • Unless you really want to, there’s no need to mention burnout or work-life balance.
• Job Search: “I’m looking for new opportunities that align with my goals of [state your career goals].”
  • Less is more here, too; burnout and work-life balance are personal reasons to change jobs, and they don’t need to have a place in your interview.

What NOT to Say

• “This place has terrible work-life balance and I’m sick of the overtime. I’ve got to get out of here.”
• “My last workplace required crazy hours and weekend work. I’m so burnt out! But your company seems a lot better.”
• There’s no point in rehashing the reasons you’re leaving. Once you’ve made your decision, get out and keep your peace! And if possible, take a break — for two reasons:
  • 1) It’s very, very difficult to process and overcome burnout while still running full speed.
  • 2) Employers are unlikely to hire someone who admits to, or seems to be, in active burnout. Would you?

16. You’re relocating (or the company is)

If your role is hybrid or in-office, a personal or company relocation may jeopardize your position. Relocation stipends and remote-work exceptions may be possible; it doesn’t hurt to ask! Otherwise, it may be time to move on.

What to Say

• Current Job: “Due to [my relocation / the company’s relocation], I won’t be able to meet the [hybrid / in-person] requirements for this role. My last day will be two weeks from this Wednesday.”
• Job Search: “When [I relocated / my last company relocated], I could no longer meet the on-site requirements. Now, I’m excited to work with an organization [in my new location / with a remote workforce].”

What NOT to Say

• “Is this company relocation just a move to push us all out?”
• “My last company wouldn’t let me work remotely, so I quit.”
• It can be tempting to be bold. But what do you expect to gain from it? Would your current employer’s response actually change what you do next? And if you were a hiring manager, how would you interpret your response from an interview? Consider what you stand to gain (or lose).

17. You want to switch work environments in a way your company can’t support (in-person, remote, or hybrid)

73% of surveyed workers say workplace location policies — remote, hybrid, or in-person — are a very important factor when selecting a role. So if your current organization doesn’t support your preferred workplace setup, it can be a deal-breaker.

What to Say

• Current Job: “[Remote/Hybrid/On-Site] work is very important to me at this stage in my career. Since that isn’t possible here, it’s time for me to move on.”
• Job Search: “My previous employer was [remote/hybrid/on-site], and after a lot of consideration, I discovered that I work best in a(n) [on-site/hybrid/remote] capacity instead. So, I’m excited to see your company support that setup!”

What NOT to Say

• “This RTO mandate is just a layoff in disguise. I quit!”
• “My last workplace wouldn’t work with my hybrid requirements; I need a more adaptable employer.”
• Yeah, your company’s new return-to-office policy might actually be designed to force people out. But leaving in a huff doesn’t change that fact. When interviewing for new roles, you can definitely confirm that your preference aligns with company policies — just don’t state it as a demand for them to cater to you.

18. You want to switch from full-time to part-time or contract, or vice-versa

Whether for health, family, finances, or other personal circumstances, it’s normal to flex between full-time and part-time at certain points in our lives. Some employers can accommodate that; others can’t or won’t.

What to Say

• Current Job: “At this stage, I need a [full-time/part-time/contract] opportunity. That doesn’t seem to align with the company’s needs, so I’m moving on.”
• Job Search: “While I partnered with my last company to find a [contract/part-time/full-time] solution, ultimately, it didn’t align with their current needs. So, I’m seeking a [contract/part-time/full-time] role where I can really thrive.”

What NOT to Say

• “I’m just really stressed out and need [fewer hours/more money/less responsibility].”
• “I think I’d like to try full-time work, but maybe a contract would make more sense? I guess I’m open.”
• Fair or not, your employer is more concerned with how your hours and pay structure benefit the company vs. how they impact you. If you can’t make a strong business case for the change, don’t lean into personal details — keep your statement simple. And when searching for a new role, be clear on the type of work you’re seeking; don’t expect the employer to sell you on a particular contract structure.

How to Leave a Job: 11 Steps to Navigate Your Current Employer

Leaving a job isn’t easy, but it can be simple. Follow a standard checklist to cover your bases, keep things professional, and preserve your relationships to retain references for future hiring managers.

1. Get clear on why you’re really leaving
2. Prepare and plan for your resignation: timeline, budget, healthcare, maximizing benefits like your PTO and FSA
3. Decide when to quit, with an appropriate notice period
4. Draft your resignation letter
5. Prepare for the unexpected: counteroffers, poor reactions, getting fired
6. Meet with your manager live — call, video, or in person
7. Deliver your written resignation
8. Confirm your final day in writing
9. Loop in your work friends
10. Update and tap into your professional network
11. Transition out

For more detail on these steps, learn how to quit a job the right way.

What to Do When Your Boss Reacts Poorly

Picture this: you hand your boss a resignation notice, and they…

• Go silent
• Start crying
• Beg you to stay
• Fire you on the spot

What would you do?

Hopefully, none of the above will happen to you. But it doesn’t hurt to be prepared.

Have HR join the conversation, or request their presence before you continue. Stay professional and firm in your decision. Reiterate your professional reasons for moving on without delving too deep into your emotional state or personal reasons. Your boss is human, and while they should absolutely stay professional, remember:

You’ve been preparing for this — but depending on the circumstances leading up to your resignation, your boss might be unprepared for this moment.

That’s why a little preparation and a firm plan will help you navigate the conversation.

How to Decide on Your Next Career Move (and Why It Matters)

You might choose your next career move before or after you resign. No matter when you decide, be deliberate about discovering your ideal career.

With more self-awareness, clarity, and confidence, you’ll choose a role you’ll be happy with for years to come — instead of another one you’ll want to quit immediately.

To make a smart choice about your next career move:

• Spend focused, dedicated time getting to know yourself and what matters to you — both in your career and in your life overall
• Create a list of what you love and hate about your current and past roles
• Determine your personal values: the principles that unconsciously guide your decisions
• Identify your career interests (which aren’t necessarily the same as your skills and talents)
• Evaluate your strengths and weaknesses, focusing on what you want to improve
• Describe, in serious detail, the best workday you can imagine — and the worst one, too
• Use what you’ve learned to create a shortlist of career options
• Learn about and experiment with those careers
• Get in touch with your network for opportunities

For more detail on the self-discovery and decision-making processes, check out this post: What Is a Perfect Career for Me?

Good Reasons for Leaving a Job: FAQs

What is the best answer for reasons for leaving a job?

When a hiring manager asks why you left your previous employer, keep your answer honest, simple, and brief. Avoid focusing on the past; instead, highlight your desire for professional growth while emphasizing strategic reasons that align with the potential new role.

Commonly acceptable reasons to leave a job include wanting more growth opportunities, more responsibility, compensation that better aligns with your experience (i.e., higher pay), relocation, and company restructuring.

Consider this sample format: “While my last employer taught me so much about [top skills you learned], I’m ready for an opportunity where I can learn more about [focus area of the new role] and use my strengths in [top strengths that apply to the new role] to complement and elevate my new team.”

How do I explain leaving for a better opportunity?

You’ve accepted a new role that’s a better opportunity than your current role. How do you tell your boss?

Communicate in a clear and professional manner, focus on gratitude, and keep the conversation simple and efficient. This is a common reason to leave, so don’t feel bad.

There’s no need to explain why or how the new role is a better opportunity. In fact, it’s best to avoid those details! Instead, preserve the relationship and leave on a high note.

You might say, “I’ve had an incredible [number] years here and I’m really grateful for the experience. I want to let you know I’ve accepted a new role, so my last day will be [last day]. Thank you so much for all your support.”

If you’re not open to counteroffers from your current company, defer follow-up questions about salary or benefits; just say you’re not comfortable discussing those details since you’ve already accepted the role.

Navigating Job Changes in a Difficult Job Market

You’re desperate to quit, but… the economy! The job market! AI! You couldn’t possibly leave now… right?

It’s easy to feel like the stories we hear are the absolute truth. Two friends were laid off, so everyone’s getting laid off. My ex-colleague has been looking for a new role for over a year — so if I quit, that’ll be me, too.

But… is that really true?

Do you think no one is successfully changing careers right now? Negotiating a better salary? Outsmarting resume-scanning AI tools?

Right now, someone is struggling with their search for a dream role — but someone just landed theirs. Someone got ghosted in their second-round interview — but after a tough year, someone was hired on the spot.

Any role could go to anyone who goes after it.

So, why not you?

You don’t have to get EVERY opportunity. You just have to get the right one.

It’s not easy: during the search, every day you don’t get the offer you want, it starts to feel like you never will.

Until the day they do offer it to you. Then, everything changes.

If you knew it would be challenging and scary… that it would make you doubt yourself… that it might take longer than you think… but that it would all pay off in the end…

Would you wait to get started? Or would you finally say fuck it, and dive in?

If you’re sick of waiting, it could be time for support. Learn how to work with me!