Is it ever a good idea to resign from your job without having a new one lined up? I say, yes!
Conventional wisdom dictates this is possibly one of the worst career moves you could make. Granted, there's the fact this could raise serious questions with future employers; you could put yourself in financial jeopardy and could battle to negotiate your salary or job title in future as you could find yourself, well, desperate.
However, in the modern workplace, old-school conventional wisdom doesn't always apply. Sure, many people fantasise about resigning when it's a particularly blue Monday or after a heated exchange with their grumpy boss, although these pressure-cooker moments generally blow over, especially after a restful weekend or a spot of leave.
But when it comes to a job that makes you really unhappy, that you're simply not good at, that has started to take its toll on your health or begun to have a negative impact on your family or relationships, it's time to call it quits.
Not having another job lined up is okay provided you don't resign impulsively or merely out of anger, have thoroughly considered your actions and the consequences thereof, and have some idea of what you will do come that first Monday morning when the sound of your alarm doesn't send you into a cold sweat.
Many people turn what could potentially be a disastrous situation into a positive opportunity by using their new-found spare time to invest in a little personal development. That is, interrogating their strengths and weaknesses, reassessing their professional and personal goals, and understanding what they really want out of life.
Some people reinvent themselves and learn skills to pursue new careers that are more aligned with their interests, while others use the opportunity to rebalance themselves, take a breather and travel, or make up for lost time with family and friends.
Whichever option, there's no denying the life-changing impact of being thrown out of your comfort zone - a positive spin-off of that is often uncovering new talents and new life directions. It's a risky business but it can lead to high rewards.
Although you may find yourself agreeing that resigning on the spot is right for you, never take your employment for granted. Having a job is a privilege, which is even more reason to do what you love, and love what you do.
