For many of us, a career change is an opportunity to earn more or rebrand ourselves. Sometimes it is a risk worth taking when the pros outweigh the cons. However, if the drawbacks cannot be suitably addressed, leaving may not be the best idea. 

If you are at a crossroad in your career, you may be considering leaving your current role for several reasons.  

We want to share some perspective that may help you to decide how you should proceed. 

Ask yourself the following questions before quitting your job. 

Why do you want to change your job? 

What would you need to be happier? Create a list of your career goals. Do a pros and cons list. Do the pros outweigh the cons? Are the cons too significant to be fixed? Are your career goals in alignment with your current job? Be objective. If you are still unsure, ask a trusted friend who can be objective in helping you to focus on the real issues. Once you identify the reason, it will allow you to make a more informed decision. 

When you quit your job, will the problems go away? 

Do a job audit. Are the problems that you face temporary or permanent? Have you explored all the channels to resolve the problem? Have your issues spilled over into your work relationships? There will always be challenges in the work environment. Use the systems that are in place to address your concerns. Conversely, if leaving, will solve your problems – go for it! 

Do you already have a new job? 

This is perhaps one of the most important questions to ask yourself before you leave your job. A job provides financial security, which allows for access to many things. If you already have a new job lined up – great. If not, do you have enough capital to cover your expenses for a year? The job market can be unpredictable. Even with money saved, it can become challenging if there is no additional revenue stream to help with expenses.  

Do you have the support that you need? 

Your decision may have a serious impact on your family. Do you have their support? Is now the best time to change your job? Do you have a network of contacts that you can rely on if there are emergencies? Even if there is enough capital to take care of expenses, you may still have to deal with the insecurities of those who rely on you. Having the support loved ones can make your decision a lot easier to live with. 

Are you the source of your unhappiness? 

Some disappointments stem from expectations. Expectations can be realistic or impractical. You want to grow in your career, but have you taken the necessary steps to show that you are ready for more responsibilities? Have you upgraded your skills or added new skills? You could be working at a great company with amazing benefits and still become discontented if you have unrealistic expectations. However, if the source of your unhappiness results from stagnation or a lack of opportunities to advance in your current role – find something that will empower you! 

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A career change can be rewarding with excellent opportunities when done right.  

Good luck! 

Sources: Forbes, The Muse, The Ladders, MSN and INC.