Why It’s Ok to Quit
Quitting is often seen as a sign of weakness or failure.
And so oftentimes, we don’t do it. We will stick it out even when we are bored, tired, miserable, and unhappy. We may even be clear on what we want to do instead, yet we don't take action. We don’t want to “fail” at a hobby, at a marriage, at a relationship, at a school major.
I had a friend who stuck out 15 years of competitive swimming just because quitting was frowned upon. I’ve also seen people in relationships they no longer thrive in.
And after all of these years, I’ve noticed that in a society that glorifies hard work and perseverance, people don’t quit because facing the backlash from society and social groups is more terrifying than pursuing something we love.
The truth? Quitting is sometimes the best decision you can make for yourself and the loved ones around you—and it actually is a sign of courage and bravery. It’s a sign of true self awareness.
Here’s 5 signs your therapist wants you to quit:
You're not happy: Life is too short to spend it doing something that doesn't make you happy. If you're in a job, relationship, or situation that doesn't bring you joy or fulfillment, it's okay to quit and move on to something that does. Your mental and emotional well-being should always come first.
It's not aligned with your values: Sometimes, we find ourselves in situations where our values and beliefs clash with those of the people or organizations we're involved with. In these cases, quitting can be a way to stay true to yourself and your principles.
It's affecting your health: Physical and mental health should always be a top priority. If your job, relationship, or situation is causing you stress, anxiety, or other health issues, it's okay to quit in order to prioritize your well-being.
You've outgrown it: As we grow and change, our goals and priorities often shift as well. If you've outgrown a job, hobby, or relationship, it's okay to quit and pursue something that aligns better with your current stage of life.
It's not serving you anymore: Sometimes, we start something with good intentions, but as time goes on, we realize that it's no longer serving us. Maybe it's a volunteer opportunity that's become too time-consuming, or a degree program that's no longer relevant to your career goals. In these cases, quitting can free up time and energy for things that are more meaningful and fulfilling.
Quitting can be scary and uncertain, but it can also lead to growth, new opportunities, and a happier, more fulfilling life. It's important to remember that quitting is not a sign of weakness, but rather a brave and conscious decision to prioritize your well-being and happiness.
So, if you find yourself in a situation that's no longer serving you, give yourself permission to quit and move on to something better.
If you don’t give yourself permission to do what you love, who will?