We all have good days and bad days at work, but sometimes, the writing is on the wall.  You know that for the sake of your well-being and sanity, it’s time to quit your job.   Being in the situation can make you unsure. Are you just being oversensitive? Should you really move on? Here are some truly serious signs that it’s time to quit. 

1. Your Employer Downgrades Your Job

Have you been demoted? Suddenly earning less than was agreed? You need to act fast. Your employer may be breaching your contract. Talk to a constructive dismissal lawyer. If you simply accept your new position, that may be seen as tacit consent to the situation. 

Since employment law is a complex field that differs from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, local advice is necessary. Don’t hesitate just because you didn’t get a written contract. Implicit contracts also count – and it may even be easier to get restitution if there isn’t a contract packed with terms to cover contingencies to protect your employer from litigation. 

2. Your Boss Makes Your Life a Misery

Whether it’s because they have developed a personal dislike towards you or are just an incredibly difficult person, working under a toxic boss is an unenviable position to be in. You might be able to mend the situation through good communication, patience, and hard work, but you need your boss to be reasonable for that to be effective. Some people simply aren’t. 

If you have proof that your boss has been bullying you, you may be able to take your company to court – provided they’re aware of the situation and have done nothing to address it. However, the burden of proof will rest on you and it can be a traumatic business. Once again, employment lawyers can advise you. 

Should you decide not to rock the boat – as many employees do – start hunting for a new job and get ready to pack your things and go. 

3. You Hate the Work You Do

Different people enjoy different types of work. It’s perfectly natural. Sometimes, one has to do work one doesn’t like to find out what one likes. If the daily grind is getting you down, think about what you dislike about your job and consider what type of work you’d really prefer. And, although we tend to think that career counselling is for kids about to leave school, there’s no reason why an adult shouldn’t consult a career counsellor to get some pointers. 

Consider the sheer amount of time you spend at work. If you’re unhappy, bored, or frustrated during that time, you won’t be happy overall. Don’t dedicate yourself to a career you hate just for the sake of the paycheck. 

4. You Can’t Be Proud of the Company You Work For

Feeling that you work for a business that does something constructive and has a good code of ethics is very important to your career satisfaction. If you cringe every time someone asks who you work for or find yourself being forced to do things that, though not illegal, just seem wrong, it’s time to quit your job. 

In a worst-case scenario, your company might even be doing something shady. Whistleblowing is hard, but there are times when you just know it’s the right thing to do. Handling the backlash when you’re still working for the company will be unpleasant, even though you’re protected by law. Gather your evidence, toot that whistle, and get out of there!

5. You’re in a Dead-End Job

Opportunities for career advancement help you with personal growth and keep you motivated. It’s possible to love your job but you still find yourself in a situation in which you’re unlikely to advance. 

If this is you, think things through carefully. Even if it’s another step up the career ladder, you might not like the new position as much as the one you have now. But while moving on is a risk, it might be time to take that risk to better your career. 

If you’re genuinely frustrated with the lack of career progression, don’t think twice. Start job hunting and hang on for the time being. Continuity of employment looks good on your resume. 

6. You’re Totally Out of Your Depth

Being in a job that you simply don’t have the skills for is terrifying. Unless you misrepresented yourself in the interview, the recruiters are more to blame than you are. You can do several things – including sticking it out and learning fast. Simply asking for tips or getting colleagues to show you the ropes might do the trick. 

However, if you’re consistently underperforming and in trouble despite your best efforts, it may be time to cut your – and the company’s, losses. If it’s a job you’d like to equip yourself for in the future, consider upskilling. 

Once you have options, you can try talking to your bosses about the type of training you need and your feelings of frustration. Many companies are serious about training and they might even help or allow you to do easier work while you work to improve your skills. 

Do you recognise the signs its time to quit your job?  If so trust your gut and make sure you understand the next steps in your job search.