Hello there!
In my recent discussion with Adrijana Vujadin, we explored whether you should quit your daily SEO job.
Both of us have faced this question at different points in our careers, and it’s something that resonates with many people.
I’ve personally gone through phases of burnout and moments where I felt unfulfilled in my daily routine, while Adrijana shared how she made a big shift to pursue her passion.
Our conversation was about how we both weighed the risks, challenges, and rewards of making such a decision, and now we want to help you with your own journey.
I have gathered all the best tips and insights from our conversation.
If you don't feel like reading the whole episode, below are the key takeaways and the link to our conversation.
Key Takeaways
- Understand why you want to quit. Is it dissatisfaction, burnout, a lack of growth, or a new opportunity?
- Make sure you're financially prepared with savings, a backup plan, or another source of income.
- Follow your passion, but balance it with practicality. Can your passion realistically support your lifestyle?
- Evaluate the impact of work-life balance and mental health. Is your job causing burnout or affecting your well-being?
- Weigh new opportunities carefully. Are they a step forward, or are you taking on unnecessary risks?
Reflect on Why You Want to Quit
Before you hand in your notice, ask yourself why you're considering quitting. The reason behind your desire to leave will shape the right path forward.
Dissatisfaction at Work?
Is it a problem that can be solved? If you're feeling unhappy in your current role, can a conversation with your manager about changes in your responsibilities or projects help?
Sometimes, the situation can be improved with simple adjustments to your workload or tasks.
Feeling Stuck?
Are you feeling like there's no room to grow in your current job? Do you feel like your skills are underutilized, or you’re not being challenged?
If your current role isn't aligning with your long-term career goals, it might be time to look elsewhere or explore new opportunities for advancement, either within or outside the company.
The Passion to Start Something New?
Maybe there's a passion project or business idea that keeps surfacing. Is there something you’ve always wanted to pursue but haven’t been able to because of your current job?
While following a passion is important, make sure it's something you can turn into a sustainable career.
Burnout?
Are you overwhelmed with work to the point where it’s affecting your health or personal life? Sometimes, what you need isn’t to quit but to find balance.
However, if your job is the root cause of chronic stress, and there's no sign of change, quitting may be the best choice for your well-being.
Temporary Frustration?
Is the issue something temporary? Are you just going through a rough patch that might improve over time?
Sometimes, work frustrations come and go, so consider if this is a short-term problem before making any long-term decisions.
"The fear of failure is real, but so is the possibility of building something better. I didn’t have all the answers when I quit, but I had faith in myself and my vision."
Assess Your Financial Situation
Financial stability is one of the biggest factors that can either hold you back from quitting or give you the freedom to pursue new paths.
Quitting without a plan can create unnecessary stress, so you need to make sure you're financially prepared.
Do You Have Savings?
The general recommendation is to have savings that can cover at least six months of living expenses.
This safety net will give you the time to either look for a new job or build up your own business without the pressure of financial instability.
Are You in Debt?
If you have significant debt or loans, quitting your job might not be the best idea unless you have a solid plan in place.
Without a steady income, managing debt can become more challenging, so it’s crucial to assess your financial obligations.
Is Your Partner or Family Dependent on Your Income?
If others rely on your income, make sure to consider their needs and have an open conversation with them before making a decision.
It’s essential to have a plan that works for everyone.
Have Income from Other Sources?
Do you have a side business, freelance work, or another source of income that can support you while you're transitioning?
If you're starting a business, it's a good idea to begin it as a side hustle before quitting your day job.
That way, you can test its viability and start building a customer base without the pressure of having it generate immediate income.
"I found my niche as an SEO mindset coach—a role I created for myself where I help other SEOs not only with strategies but also with managing the mental challenges that come with the job."
Are You Ready for the Risks?
Starting a new venture or pursuing a passion is not without risk.
Are you prepared for the challenges that come with entrepreneurship, such as uncertainty in income, competition, or the need to wear many hats in the early stages?
You must weigh your enthusiasm against the reality of building a business from the ground up.
Work-Life Balance and Mental Health
A big reason people consider quitting is burnout or lack of work-life balance.
If your current job is causing you significant stress or affecting your mental health, you need to consider how quitting might help—or if there are other ways to improve the situation first.
Is Your Job the Cause of Burnout?
If you are constantly stressed, fatigued, or unmotivated, it may be time to consider if the job is worth the toll it’s taking on your health.
Sometimes, a break from work or using your vacation days can help provide clarity on whether it’s truly time to move on or just a period of exhaustion.
Can You Find Balance Elsewhere?
Instead of quitting, could you move to a role that offers better work-life balance, either within the same company or in a different industry?
If it’s possible to find a job that’s less stressful but still fulfills your financial and career goals, this could be a more balanced approach.
"I didn’t just quit my job to escape—I quit because I knew I could create something better for myself. Now, I get to work with clients I genuinely enjoy, on projects that excite me."
Evaluate Future Opportunities
Sometimes quitting is not about dissatisfaction but about new opportunities that have come up.
Is This Opportunity a Step Forward?
Will the new role challenge you, help you grow, or take your career in a direction that aligns with your long-term goals?
If it’s just a lateral move with no real benefits, you might want to reconsider if it’s worth leaving your current position.
What Are the Risks?
Every new opportunity comes with risks, whether it’s uncertainty in a new company, the potential for a pay cut, or adapting to a new work environment.
Are you ready to handle those challenges if things don’t go as planned?
How Will It Affect Your Career in the Long Term?
Consider how this decision will shape your career trajectory.
Will this opportunity give you the experience and skills you need for your future goals, or are you making a change for temporary satisfaction?
"When I decided to quit, I didn’t have a clear plan laid out—but I knew that staying where I was would only keep me unhappy and stuck. Sometimes, taking the risk is better than staying in the comfort zone that drains you."
Practical Tips for Making the Decision
Here are some practical steps to take before making a final decision:
Evaluate Your Current Job:
Write down what you like and don’t like about your current role.
Sometimes, seeing it all laid out on paper can help you identify whether the negatives outweigh the positives or if certain issues can be fixed.
Test the Waters:
If possible, try to start your passion project or side business while still working at your current job.
This allows you to test its potential without risking your main income.
If you can get a few clients or see some early success, it might give you the confidence you need to transition fully.
Have a Backup Plan:
Always have a plan B in case things don’t work out as expected.
Whether it's having another job lined up or at least a clear strategy for the first few months after quitting, make sure you aren’t walking into uncertainty without any preparation.
Consult a Mentor or Trusted Advisor:
If you're unsure, talk to someone who has been through a similar situation or has experience in the field you want to move into.
Getting an outside perspective can be invaluable.
Consider Taking a Break First:
Sometimes, a sabbatical or extended break can give you the clarity you need without making a permanent decision.
Use this time to reflect on your goals and recharge.
Just Do It?
I was considering this decision for 3+ years. Looking from the perspective, this was the best decision I could have made.
I wish I had made it earlier. If you have any questions or need support, feel free to reply to this e-mail or reach out to Adrijana (vujadin.adrijana@gmail.com).
All the best,