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Professionals leave jobs for scores of reasons. Whether the notion just crosses your mind or you’re actively pursuing an exit strategy, I’m going to champion your thoughts and reasons for leaving a job. As someone who made the leap, I can tell you that change is scary, exciting and positive.

Fear, Comfort and Time – Put Them Behind You

I made my first job change after 10 years in the workforce. You may recognize some of the reasons it took 10 years. I stayed because I was comfortable, had flexibility, and didn’t know what else I wanted to do. I told myself I didn’t have time to figure it out. I would like to save you some time. Anchoring your thoughts will build confidence. To help you establish that thought process, I’ll focus on common and good reasons for leaving a job.

1. Culture

Is your company’s culture a good fit for you? Do you share your employer’s values and operating style? What about a healthy work/life balance – does your employer support that need with explicit programs? If you answered no to any of these, let culture be a reason to say farewell. We at Lucas Group believe in this so strongly that a cultural match is a top priority for every professional we vet and place.

2. Boredom

My father used to say that only boring people are bored, so don’t be boring. When professional boredom sets in, growth is stifled and people stop caring. Purpose and meaning aren’t just antidotes to boredom. They’re the difference between a job and a rewarding career. You deserve the latter and others need your talents. Go for it.

3. Leadership

The most successful and satisfied professionals I know work for companies with strong leadership. Many have entered the ranks of leadership and most are being groomed for it. If your employer does not inspire you to greatness, they are missing out on being a great company. You’ll grow and excel by aligning yourself with a like-minded employer.

4. Wrong Position

You can be a great performer but know in your bones it’s not the right role for you. Or you may spend your days struggling to keep pace with your counterparts. What they have is interest and aptitude in something you don’t share. That’s fine. You have exceptional drive and abilities of your own, maybe in a different field or industry. Give yourself permission to choose your intended path.

This article started by naming some reasons to leave a job. I’ll close by telling you what it did for me and encourage you to do the same. Moving forward in my career by making a change has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I am challenged, excited, energized by the culture, never bored, motivated by the leadership, and I’m learning new ways to think about old things. I am in a position where I am thriving. I’ll leave you with this: Stop thinking about the reasons you should stay. Come up with a plan, find a great recruiter to help you carry it out, and make a positive change. Something great is out there. You just have to be willing to claim it.

Four Reasons for Leaving Your Job by

Ann Reiling Managing Partner – Human Resources