When is it time to leave?

I had the privilege of working with a woman who was very intentional about many aspects of her life. She regularly checked in on people, made sure to recognize everyone she worked with, and stood up for herself when she felt the need to speak out.

One of my favorite things she did to keep herself grounded and on point was an exercise she would do every time she started a new job. She would consider what three things needed to be in place for her to know it was time to leave. She’d write those three things down on an index card and put it in the top drawer of her desk.

Throughout her employment, she would periodically refer to the card as a self-check on her situation. When we worked together, she shared there had been times when one or two were in play, but not all three. That reflection allowed her to take stock of the situation.

The intentionality of taking control of her work life and creating a measurement struck me as genius in its simplicity. Simple, but proactive and profound. And it kept her values front and center.

We all have good days and bad days, but what is the tipping point for us to decide it’s time to move on? Is it challenge? Collegial relationships? Money? For me, I don't always know what is off, but having a benchmark is helpful. Knowing when it’s time to move on is a good way to take control of the situation and ensure I’m in an environment where I will thrive.