quitting job essay

How to Write a Resignation Letter (Examples Included!)

So you’ve decided to move on. You’ve signed on the dotted line at your new gig, and now all that’s standing between you and your fab new job is submitting your resignation letter to your current one.

While this isn’t the first step of quitting your job (that would be sitting down with your boss to have the “I quit” conversation and give your two weeks’ notice ), it’s an important one. The official document you submit to your higher-ups and HR will set the tone for the rest of your time at this company—as well as your relationship moving forward.

It's worth spending a little time making your two weeks’ notice letter solid and polished. Note we said a little time—you’re not writing the Memoirs of a Back-End Engineer here. It should actually be a quick, concise document.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to write a resignation letter, with examples and a template to make it as easy as possible for you.

Still looking for that perfect next role? One of these open jobs on The Muse might just be the one »

What's a resignation letter?

A resignation letter is a written notice to your employer stating your intent to resign. It includes your final day at the company and an offer to help with the transition. You could also use the document to thank the employer for any opportunities or support provided and mention an invitation to keep in touch.

The resignation letter format is simple and minimalist. Its key pillars are the date you're sending the letter, salutation, body paragraphs, and sign-off. You might think it's not necessary to write one, but a letter of resignation is important for ensuring a smooth transition and providing a record of the terms of your departure.

How to write a resignation letter in 4 steps

There’s no need to overthink it—this is an important yet simple document. Here's how to craft your resignation letter, along with some tips on what not to include to deliver your message professionally:

1. Document your resignation and last day

The beginning of your letter is not the place to sugarcoat or get creative. Just state your decision to resign and the effective date. While you probably shared with your boss your reasons for leaving, you don’t need to describe them here—keeping it simple is perfectly fine.

For example:

This letter is to formally notify you that I’m resigning as a marketing analyst at Lemon Inc. My last day will be two weeks from today on Wednesday, July 17, 2024.

You could also say something like:

Please accept this letter as formal notification of my resignation as marketing analyst at Lemon Inc. My last day of employment will be two weeks from today on Wednesday, 17, 2024.

2. Express gratitude for the opportunity

It’s always a good idea to thank your employer for the opportunity, describing some of the key things you’ve enjoyed and learned on the job. Yes, this is true even if you’re beyond thrilled to be leaving. Remember—you don’t want to burn bridges (and you may want a reference down the line), and wrapping up on a good note will leave a lasting and positive impression.

Thank you so much for the opportunity to work here for the past 18 months. I’ve enjoyed getting to know you and the rest of the team and appreciate the opportunity to learn more about marketing strategy and audience analysis. I’m excited to take these skills with me as I pursue the next step of my career.

3. Offer help with the handoff

State your willingness to help out with the transition. You don’t need to go into great detail (and definitely don’t promise anything you can’t deliver), but a couple of lines saying you’ll ensure a smooth wrap-up of your duties will show you’re in the game until the very end.

During the next two weeks, I’ll do everything possible to wrap up my duties and train other team members as needed. Please let me know if there’s anything else I can do to help out during the transition.

4. Say your well wishes and sing off

Finally, wrap up the email professionally. Express that you still want the best for the company going forward, and let them know they can reach out. If you truly want to keep in touch, feel free to leave some contact information, such as your personal email, LinkedIn handle, or phone number.

I wish the company continued success, and I hope to stay in touch in the future.

555 123 4567

LinkedIn.com/in/JamiePark

What not to include in your resignation letter

This is one of those cases where what you don't say matters almost as much as what you say. Here are a few things you should definitely avoid when writing a formal resignation letter:

• Details about why you’re leaving the company : It's OK to give a brief explanation if you want, but don't dive into minor details. Resist the urge of venting all your reasons, and keep it professional.
• Details about where you’re going: Your resignation letter is also not the place to brag about your next employer or give details about the hiring process, salary, or benefits package.
• Complaints about the company, its employees, or its practices: Again, even if your experience at the company was terrible and is the reason for your departure, it's highly unprofessional to complain about your employer in a resignation letter.
• Rambling: If you don't have much to say, it's best to write a straightforward, short resignation letter. There's no need to ramble or make it longer than necessary.

Resignation letter template

If you want some more guidance (or just convenience—no shame in that!), just plug your info into our template:

[Month][Day], [Year]

Dear [Your Boss’ Name],

Please accept this letter as formal notification that I am resigning from my position as a [position title] with [Company Name]. My last day will be [your last day—usually at least two weeks from the date you give notice].

Thank you so much for the opportunity to work in this position for the past [amount of time you’ve been in the role]. I’ve greatly enjoyed and appreciated the opportunities I’ve had to [a few of your favorite job responsibilities]. I’ve learned [a few specific things you’ve learned on the job], all of which I will take with me throughout my career.

During my last two weeks, I’ll do everything possible to wrap up my duties and train other team members. Please let me know if there’s anything else I can do to help during the transition.

[Your Name]

[ Download this template here ]

Feel free to adjust this based on your experience and your company culture. Typically, you should email the letter to both your boss and the HR department, but always double check if your company has specific procedures for submitting your resignation.

Read this next: 40 Templates to Help You Handle Your Toughest Work Emails

3 example resignation letters

Want to put this all together and see what it looks like in practice? We’ve written three letter of resignation samples for you to work off of.

Simple resignation letter example #1

Please accept this letter as formal notification that I am resigning from my position as an account executive with Marketing Media. My last day will be Thursday, March 2.

Thank you so much for the opportunity to work in this position for the past six years. I’ve greatly enjoyed and appreciated the opportunities I’ve had to grow our sales team and pipeline, be a part of creating a great product, and work with my colleagues. I’ve learned so much about marketing strategy and the digital media space, which I will certainly take with me throughout my career.

I’ll do everything possible to wrap up my duties and train other team members over the next two weeks. Please let me know if there’s anything else I can do to help during this transition.

Sincerely, Anne Acharya

Formal resignation letter example #2

Dear Ms. Fran Braden,

I’m writing to give my formal notice that I’ll be leaving my role as office manager for Larry and Keets Financial Partners on July 31.

I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve been provided working on the operations team for the past four years. It’s been a wonderful experience to work for such a great company and help in solving Larry and Keets’ mission to provide better financial support for older employees.

Please let me know if I can be of any assistance during this transition. Thank you for all your guidance. I wish you all the best, and look forward to keeping in touch.

Sincerely, Jorge Gonzales

Short resignation letter example #3

Dear Jennifer,

I’m writing to inform you that I'm resigning from my position as a client manager for Yays Marketing. My last day of employment will be June 30, 2024.

Thank you for the opportunities and support throughout the past two years. It was a pleasure to work with you, the client management team, and such amazing clients.

I'm preparing a handoff document and am available to help with whatever you need during the transition. I wish you the best and hope we can keep in touch.

Regards, Lana Jackson

Frequently asked questions

1. how do i write a good resignation letter.

A good resignation letter is brief, concise, and maintains a professional tone. It should clearly communicate your decision to leave your job, specify your final day at the company, and express gratitude for any opportunities you've had during your employment. It's also common courtesy to offer help with the handoff of tasks or projects.

2. How do you politely resign in an email?

To resign via email, address your resignation letter to your boss, direct manager, and human resources. It's polite to give at least two weeks' notice so your employer has time to find a replacement. Avoid venting your frustrations or getting into details about why you're quitting. It's also a good idea to have an in-person conversation with your superior before or after sending the letter.

3. What is the format of a resignation letter to a company?

The resignation letter format follows the standard structure of most professional letters. It includes the date of sending the letter, a formal salutation, typically no more than two or three body paragraphs, and a closing sign-off.

4. How to write a resignation letter for personal reasons?

Resignation letters usually don't elaborate on the reasons for quitting, but you can offer a brief explanation if you feel it's necessary. For example: “I am writing to inform you that I'm resigning from my position as a [job title] for [company name] due to [personal reason]. My last day of work will be July 5, 2024.”

Bottom line

Your note may sit in the depths of your company’s HR files until the end of time, but you can be sure of two things: One, your former boss (and future reference) will read it and be impressed. And two, if you ever decide to come back to your company (hey, it happens), it’s a very good thing that the last thing on file is a great, professionally written letter of resignation.

Regina Borsellino and Amanda Cardoso also contributed writing, reporting, and/or advice to this article.

Why People Really Quit Their Jobs—and How Employers Can Stop It

H igh employee turnover remains a key problem facing many organizations across a broad range of industries. For example , despite making high salaries, 66% of senior product managers and 58% of IT program managers say they are planning to quit their jobs. Meanwhile, 60% of emergency room nurses and 58% of critical care nurses report that they are planning to quit, too—despite having already invested a huge amount of time, effort, and money on specialized training for their current job. Or, consider teachers. Nearly half of new teachers (44%) completely quit teaching within 5 years after their first day in the classroom.

Turnover is costly because, when workers quit, it can be difficult to replace them. Therefore, it’s essential to understand why workers quit, especially when it can help organizations find effective ways to reduce turnover.

While workers decide to quit their jobs for a variety of reasons, our new research has identified one trigger of quitting that seems to be a mistake on the part of workers. Intuitively, it seems like being assigned to do many “hard tasks” should make a worker much more likely to quit. Surprisingly, however, this isn’t really the case. Instead, it was being assigned to do a streak of many hard tasks in a row that really made workers quit. In other words, quitting was mostly driven not by hard tasks, but by streaks of hard tasks. This means that managers can reduce turnover by a substantial amount by simply re-ordering their workers’ tasks, so as to break up hard streaks. We call this strategy “task sequencing.”

As management scholars, the most common motivational tool that we see organizations using is monetary incentives. However, monetary incentives are not as effective as people think, and they are also expensive. In contrast to monetary incentives, task sequencing offers a powerful way to boost motivation at virtually zero cost. In our recent research published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences , we found that a task sequencing intervention could dramatically reduce the likelihood that workers irrationally quit forever (in our data, by 22%). This conclusion was based on our analysis of five years of real-world data involving over 14,000 workers who were volunteer crisis counselors at a large organization. Workers in that organization were repeatedly and randomly assigned to tasks that were either hard tasks or (relatively) easy ones. A typical worker did hundreds of tasks over the course of the study, each of which was randomly assigned. This randomization allowed us to go beyond correlation and show causation (which is not the same thing) . Assigning hard streaks truly causes workers to quit.

Read More: Forget ‘Quiet Quitting.’ Here’s How to Actually Set Boundaries at Work

We found that when workers had been previously assigned to do streak of multiple hard tasks “in a row” (rather than “not in a row”), it made them much more likely to quit going forward. For example, workers became 22% more likely to quit if (at some point) they had been previously assigned to do an “easy task, hard task, hard task” pattern (which contains a hard streak) rather than a “hard task, easy task, hard task” pattern (which does not contain a hard streak). Note that this behavior goes against logic: because workers knew that their tasks were randomly assigned, whether or not a worker’s hard tasks came in a streak should have been totally irrelevant for deciding whether or not to quit.

When hard streaks were longer, they caused even more quitting: for example, workers became 110% more likely to quit forever if they were assigned to do a streak of 8 hard tasks “in a row” rather than 8 hard tasks “not in a row.”

Our research builds on the “peak-end rule,” discovered by the late Nobel prizewinner Daniel Kahneman and his colleagues. They discovered that people’s evaluations of their past experiences tend to heavily overweight two moments that are psychologically special: the “peak” (the best or worst moment) and the “end” (the final moment).

Building on the peak-end rule, we proposed a new idea called the “streak-end rule.” Our new insight was that long streaks of many hard tasks in a row can create a “peak” moment in terms of a worker’s psychological experience, which is likely to have an outsized impact when workers are thinking back on their job tasks while deciding whether to quit. For example, suppose a worker was assigned to do one easy task and two hard tasks in the following order: “easy task, hard task, hard task.” Here, the second and third tasks will be overweighted because they form a hard “streak," creating a negative “peak” or worst moment. Separately, the third task will also be overweighted because it is a negative “end” moment. In sum, workers will psychologically overweight the two hard tasks, which means that they will psychologically underweight the one easy task. As a result, the worker is likely to perceive their job as much harder than it really is, leading them to be much more likely to quit by mistake.

By applying the insights of the streak-end rule, organizations can greatly reduce their turnover rates at essentially zero cost. If organizations implemented a “task re-sequencing” intervention that avoided assigning “streaks” of multiple hard tasks in a row to any one worker—either by changing the order of certain tasks, or by reassigning certain tasks to different workers—then it would dramatically reduce the risk that their valuable workers might quit.

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Why People Quit Their Jobs

Tech surveillance and social media monitoring point to new triggers.

Imagine that you’re looking at your company-issued smartphone and you notice an e-mail from LinkedIn: “These companies are looking for candidates like you!” You aren’t necessarily searching for a job, but you’re always open to opportunities, so out of curiosity, you click on the link. A few minutes later your boss appears at your desk. “We’ve noticed that you’re spending more time on LinkedIn lately, so I wanted to talk with you about your career and whether you’re happy here,” she says. Uh-oh.

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How To Quit Your Job Professionally (With Examples)

• How To Quit Your Job
• Write A Resignation Letter
• Two Weeks' Notice Letter
• Write An Immediate Resignation Letter
• Write A Retirement Letter
• Short Resignation Letter
• Teacher Resignation Letter
• Nurse Resignation Letter
• Retail Resignation Letter
• Non Retaliation
• Leaving Job Checklist

Find a Job You Really Want In

Quitting your job can be complicated emotionally, but the protocol to follow to do it properly isn’t complex. Two weeks is considered the polite amount of notice, and you’re expected to turn in a resignation letter. You want to make sure that you follow the proper etiquette when you quit your job so that you don’t burn any bridges.

It’s also important to have it in writing so that there isn’t any disagreement about when your last day is. If you’re thinking of resigning from your job, want to know how to write a resignation letter, or are just interested in the proper etiquette involved in leaving your job, then keep reading.

Key Takeaways:

It’s important to write a resignation letter clearly stating your intention to quit with the last day of your employment.

During your final two weeks, it’s important to remain professional and not burn any bridges with your supervisors or coworkers.

Offer to help train your replacement and write down everything that you do in your job position.

How to tell your boss you’re quitting

What to include in your resignation letter, example resignation letters, template resignation letter, should you quit your job, what to do during your final two weeks, mistakes to avoid when you quit, quitting your job professionally faq.

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Turning in your resignation can be nerve-wracking, but there’s a standard protocol to follow when quitting your job. Knowing the proper procedure to follow can help make the process less intimidating, and will ensure that you leave looking professional and on good terms with your former boss and coworkers.

Write a resignation letter. This is the first thing you want to do, as you want to be sure about when your last day will be, what you’ll be willing to do during the final few weeks, and making sure that you have everything in order.

Tell your boss. Assuming you have a cordial relationship with your boss, it’s best to inform them in person that you’re quitting. Do your best to find some free time in their schedule and have a one-on-one meeting with them. It doesn’t need to be long, it can just be you informing them of the fact that you’re resigning.

Give your two weeks notice letter. If you have an employment contract that states specific rules on how to resign, adhere to those. If there’s no employment contract, use the general rule of giving two weeks’ notice .

In any case, make sure to clearly state your last day of employment in all your communications, both verbal and written.

Keep it simple. It’s best to get straight to the point with conversations like this. Unless you’re open to a competing offer from your current employer, you should emphatically state that you’re quitting and leave no room for interpretation.

State your reason(s). It’s essential to plan out what you want to give as reasons for leaving so that you don’t say something silly in the heat of the moment. Your reasons don’t have to be long-winded or complex; a simple “received an offer that better suits my career goals ” is perfectly acceptable.

Offer to help with the transition process. After you hand in your two weeks, offer to help with the transition process and train your replacement. If they don’t have a replacement by the time your two weeks are up, write down a detailed list of your job requirements to help the next person out.

Express gratitude. Mention how the company has helped you and that you’re grateful for all that you’ve learned. Never bash your boss or talk about the company in a negative way.

Ask for a reference . You can feel out the conversation and determine if this is a good time to ask or later, but eventually, you want to get a reference from your boss while the idea is still fresh in their mind.

Contact the human resources department . It’s a good idea to find out about any vacation time you have left, transferring your 401(k), and any potential extension of benefits. This also ensures that HR is properly informed of your departure and has your resignation on file, in order to prevent any snafus.

Also, if you don’t have a good relationship with your boss, or you fear some sort of retaliation or immediate dismissal if you turn in your resignation to them, then you can go to the HR department instead.

Resignation letters serve an important purpose when you quit your job. They officially document when you’ve given notice and what the last day you’re going to work is. It’s important both for you and for the company’s records to have that on file in terms of expectations and preventing misunderstandings.

State the date that you’re leaving early on in your letter. You want this to be upfront and extremely clear so that there aren’t any misunderstandings about what your last day is.

Express your thanks to the company. It’s important to express gratitude. Even if you are leaving because you’re no longer happy at your current workplace, you did get experience and opportunities there, and it’s polite to express appreciation.

Offer employer assistance as they try to replace you. This usually takes the form of training your replacement (if they have someone in mind). However, you can also recommend someone who you think would do a good job in your former role.

Keep it simple and brief. Resignation letters shouldn’t be long. Most are less than a page in length. They’re just a written record of your decision to resign.

Follow proper business letter format. A resignation letter is a business letter and should be written as such. Make sure to be professional throughout.

Provide your contact information. Your boss likely already has your contact info, but this is an aspect of standard business letter format. If you’d like your boss and former coworkers to be able to continue to contact you, you can add any contact information that’s going to change when you go to your new job.

There are also some optional additions you can include:

Your reason for leaving. Make sure you don’t include anything negative, even if that would be honest.

A brief description of your workload. This can be helpful in terms of training your replacement. It makes it clear what your job is and what you can teach your replacement to do.

A request for a recommendation letter. If you know you have a good relationship with your boss, you can ask for a referral directly in your resignation letter.

Example resignation letter:

Elmer Fudd 1612 Rabbit Trail Drive Apex, NC 27502 919-356-7689 [email protected] 3/28/2017 Bobby Pellit OHS Principle Orange High School 1713 Efland St. Efland, NC , 27243 Dear Mr. Pellit: I would like to inform you that I am resigning from my position as an Art Teacher for the Orange County School System, effective April 17th. Thank you for the knowledge and opportunities that you and the school have provided to me over the past four years. I have enjoyed my time at Orange High School, and really appreciate the welcoming support you all provided from my first day on campus to my last. I kindly request that you write a reference letter for me, to aid in my future endeavors. If I can help in any way during this transition, please let me know. Sincerely, Your Signature (hard copy letter) Elmer Fudd

Example resignation email:

Dear Mr. Pellit: I would like to inform you that I am resigning from my position as an Art Teacher for the Orange County School System, effective April 17th. Thank you for the knowledge and opportunities that you and the school have provided to me over the past four years. I have enjoyed my time at Orange High School, and really appreciate the welcoming support you all provided from my first day on campus to my last. I kindly request that you write a reference letter for me, to aid in my future endeavors. If I can help in any way during this transition, please let me know. Sincerely, Your Electronic Signature Elmer Fudd

[Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email] [Date Submitting] [Name of Supervisor] [Their Job Title] [Name of Company] [Company Address] Dear [Name of Supervisor} I would like to inform you that I am resigning from my position [Your Job Title] for [Company Name] , effective [Date of Resignation] . Thank you for the knowledge and opportunities that you have provided to me over the past [Number of Years Employed] . I have enjoyed my time at [Company Name] , and really appreciate the welcoming support you all provided from my first day to my last. I kindly request that you write a reference letter for me, to aid in my future endeavors. If I can help in any way during this transition, please let me know. Sincerely, [Your Signature (hard copy letter)]

Before handing in your resignation letter, there are some things to consider. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with quitting your job, and there are good reasons to do so. Just be sure to consider some things before making a final decision.

Good reasons to quit your job:

You found another job. This is the most common reason people quit their jobs — they find a better opportunity elsewhere. What exactly that looks like is individual, though most people consider a higher salary and better benefits sufficient.

Wanting to spend more time with your family. Sometimes your job demands too much of you. Needing to spend more quality time with your family is a good reason to leave a job, especially if your employer refuses to offer flex time or work-from-home options.

Needing to get out of an unhealthy environment. Jobs can become toxic. This may be because the environment itself is toxic, or may just be that you’re ill-suited to it. Either way, if you feel unsafe, like you can’t trust anyone, or just always uncomfortable, it’s time to leave.

Lack of opportunity. Not every company is going to be able to offer the career advancement that you want. Going elsewhere in order to hit your career goals is a good reason to switch jobs.

Dissatisfaction. Certain jobs are just dissatisfying. If you find yourself in idle, and like you don’t get anything out of your job other than a paycheck, it’s time to look into some changes.

Relocation. If you, your spouse, or other issue requires that you relocate, then it’s unlikely you’re going to be able to stay at your current job (unless it’s fully remote). That necessitates that you resign.

Common wisdom states that we shouldn’t quit our current job without another lined up. That’s generally true, however, if you’re in a toxic environment, or abjectly miserable at your job, it may be better to quit first. Just make sure that you’re in a financial situation that allows you to afford it.

Once everyone knows about your imminent departure, you still have a couple of weeks in the office. It’s essential that you don’t get senioritis and stop being a productive employee during this time. Wrap up any projects that you can or figure out who will take over for you.

Start taking notes on what you do every day. This document could turn out to be super useful for your replacement. You can even include advice and contacts for various issues, as well as a step-by-step guide for certain processes.

Train your replacement. Take time to train them as best as you can. If you were helped by mentors when you first started at the company, it’s time to pay that debt. You don’t have to do a whole lot to satisfy your end of the bargain, but if you make an extra effort to leave your team in a good place, people will recognize it and respect you for it.

Be prepared to lease ASAP. If you’re leaving your current place of employment for a competitor, you may very well be asked to leave as soon as you hand in your resignation letter and tell your boss. This is done to prevent you from taking any valuable company data with you. In this case, make sure you take steps to clear out your desk and company computer before you’ve officially resigned.

Return company property . Don’t keep anything that’s not yours. This could include any supplies that the company has provided such as technology, company car, or anything else that has helped you in your day-to-day process.

Erase your work computer or laptop. Erase all of your private files and make sure to keep any contact information or anything that you might need in the future. This will be helpful to your replacement so they come into a fresh workspace.

Say goodbye to everyone in the workplace . Don’t just ghost out on them. Even if you don’t like some of your coworkers, saying goodbye will help prevent burning any bridges and it will help maintain a professional relationship with them.

This can also be the time you offer to be a reference for any of your coworkers and ask for any references for yourself.

There are some mistakes that you can make when resigning from your job. You want to make sure that you’re helpful and positive for the last two weeks, but you also don’t want to offend anyone before you go. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when quitting.

Don’t speak negatively about anyone. There’s nothing to be gained by badmouthing any of your coworkers or supervisors on your way out the door. There’s also no reason to lay the blame for your departure at the feet of anyone else. It just makes you look petty and immature.

Instead, stay positive about the whole experience. Whether or not you’ve enjoyed working here, you should try to make everyone feel as though you appreciated your time here.

You don’t need to go overboard with disingenuous compliments either — neutrality works perfectly fine if you can’t muster up any positive vibes for your soon-to-be ex-colleagues.

Don’t brag about your new job. It’s really bad form to start talking about your much of a salary bump you’re getting or the impressive perks your new company is offering you.

There’s really no point to this type of conversation other than to make people envious or try to get others to quit (the latter of which is actually against your non-solicitation agreement , if that’s part of your employment contract).

If people have questions about your new job, feel free to share other details you’re comfortable sharing, like the city you’re moving to or the responsibilities at your new job, it’s A-okay to answer them. Just be sure you’re not so bubbly with enthusiasm that it’s annoying for the poor folks stuck working at your old workplace.

Don’t forget to say goodbye. It’s natural for people to feel a bit slighted if you leave without saying goodbye; one day you’re there, and the next you’re not. Try to give your coworkers a bit of notice (after you’ve talked to your boss and handed in your resignation letter) so that you can say proper goodbyes to everyone.

An email to the people on the periphery of your experience is fine, but you should make an effort to personally speak with members of your team before you go. These are the people who can best speak to your professional abilities, and you never know who might be a useful reference one day.

Don’t tell your coworkers before your boss. You may have good work friends, but telling your coworkers about your departure before your boss just sets you up to have your boss find out that you’re leaving from someone else. And that can sour your relationship and make you look unprofessional.

Can you quit without any notice?

Yes, while you can quit without any notice at most jobs, it’s not recommended. Quitting without notice can be seen as unprofessional and you may not be able to use them as a reference. If you are able to stay out for the weeks, it’s a good idea too.

If you are in a dangerous situation or are unable to give two weeks you can quit immediately but inform your supervisor before walking out.

Can you just walk out of your job?

Yes, you can just walk out of your job because your employer cannot restrain you from leaving. You can gather your personal belongings and walk out the door and not return any time you want, but doing so could result in a breach of employee contract and could result in termination.

What happens if you don’t work your two-week notice?

Depending on your employment contract, not working your two-week notice can result in immediate termination. This means you you do not work your two weeks after handing in your letter, your employer might not have to pay you for those days not worked.

If you don’t think you can work for two weeks after giving your notice, either don’t say you can or offer a one-week notice instead so you do not breach any contracts.

Do you really need a resignation letter?

If you have at-will employment, then a resignation letter isn’t technically necessary. However, a resignation letter makes the transition easier and more seamless. It also leaves a paper trail, so it shows when you gave notice and when your last day is expected to be.

Following the proper procedure — including handing over a resignation letter — is also considered polite and professional. Failing to do so can mean that you can’t use your former boss as a reference, or that you’ll be seen as unprofessional.

Harvard Business Review — How to Quit Your Job: An HBR Guide

New York Times — Everyone Is Quitting: Here’s the Right Way to Do It.

University of Phoenix — How to Write a Letter of Resignation (With Examples!)

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A graduate of the University of North Carolina Wilmington. Earned a BFA majoring in Creative Writing and a minor in English.

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The Year in Quiet Quitting

The whirlwind surrounding “ quiet quitting ” first stirred in July when Zaid Khan, a twentysomething engineer, posted a TikTok of himself talking over a montage of urban scenes: waiting for the subway, looking up at leaves on a tree-lined street. “I recently learned about this term called quiet quitting, where you’re not outright quitting your job but you’re quitting the idea of going above and beyond,” Khan says. “You’re still performing your duties, but you’re no longer subscribing to the hustle-culture mentality that work has to be your life. The reality is it’s not. And your worth as a person is not defined by your labor.” The #quietquitting hashtag quickly caught fire, with countless other TikTokers offering their own elaborations and responses.

New Yorker writers reflect on the year’s highs and lows.

Traditional media outlets noticed the trend. Less than two weeks after the original video, the Guardian published an explainer: “Quiet Quitting: Why Doing the Bare Minimum at Work Has Gone Global.” A few days later, the Wall Street Journal followed with its own take, and the traditional financial media piled on. “If you’re a quiet quitter, you’re a loser,” the CNBC contributor Kevin O’Leary declared, before adding, “This is like a virus. This is worse than COVID .” Quiet-quitting supporters fought back, mostly with sarcasm. Soon after O’Leary’s appearance, a popular TikTok user named Hunter Ka’imi posted a video, recorded in the passenger seat of a car, in which he responds to the “older gentlemen” whom he had seen dismissing quiet quitting. “I’m not going to put in a sixty-hour workweek and pull myself up by my bootstraps for a job that does not care about me as a person,” he declares.

As we approach the sixth month of debate over this topic, what’s interesting to me is not the details of quiet quitting, or even the question of how widespread the phenomenon actually is, but our collective reaction to its provocations: we’re simultaneously baffled and enthusiastic. To understand this complicated reality, it helps to adopt a generational lens. Though quiet quitting has gathered diverse adherents, its core energy comes from knowledge workers who are members of Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2012). This is reflected in the movement’s emergence on TikTok, and in the survey data. A recent Gallup poll found that the largest group of workers reporting being “not engaged” are those born after 1989. Today’s young employees, however, are far from the first population to go through a period of sudden disillusionment about the role of work in their lives. Indeed, a look backward reveals that knowledge workers in every previous generation seem to have experienced a similar pattern of work crisis followed by reconceptualization.

The baby boomers (born between 1946 and 1964) entered a newly emergent knowledge-work sector that had been formed by a postwar migration to the suburbs. Their parents found a substitute for civic engagement in an Organization Man-ethos centered on loyalty to corporations that could offer lifetime employment in return. This subordination of the individual to the greater cause fit with the ethos of a generation that had banded together to fight fascism in the nineteen-forties, but to their children, surrounded by the social disruptions of the nineteen-sixties and seventies, the sentiment began to seem stiflingly conformist. The boomers responded with a countercultural movement that recast work as an obstacle to self-actualization. The rise of back-to-land, voluntary-simplicity, and communal-living experiments were all, in part, attempts to find meaning outside the structure of employment.

By the time the boomers began having kids of their own, in the nineteen-eighties, their countercultural dreams had long since crumbled. They had to figure out what new message about the meaning of work to pass on to their children, the so-called millennials (born between 1981 and 1996). In looking for a compromise between corporate conformity, which they still distrusted, and their own failed attempts to reject work altogether, the boomers came up with a clever solution: telling the millennial to seek work that they loved. This advice might sound timeless, but its arrival can be connected to this specific period. As I document in my 2012 book, “ So Good They Can’t Ignore You ,” it’s hard to find references to the phrase “follow your passion” in the context of career advice until the nineteen-nineties, at which point the adage explodes into common usage. This passion-centric perspective attempted to thread the needle between the extremes that the boomers had experienced: get a job, they told their kids, but make it one you love. Seek self-actualization, but also care about making your mortgage payments.

It’s hard to overstate the degree to which millennials—the generation to which I belong—were bombarded with this message during our childhood. This passion culture shaped our initial understanding of work and meaning, but, as with our parents, world events eventually disrupted its influence. The destabilizing impact of the 9/11 and the financial crises that followed cast doubt on the idea that our jobs should be our ultimate source of fulfillment. Employment had become too precarious to leverage in such a self-indulgent manner. When I finished graduate school, in the fall of 2009, American unemployment was near ten per cent. Millennials my age who had nurtured dreams of becoming journalists, or lawyers, or entrepreneurs retreated during this period into whatever fallback jobs they could find. Just a few years earlier, an author named Elina Furman had been making the TV rounds talking about her book “ Boomerang Nation ,” which documented the rising trend of young adults moving back in with their parents. Many in my generation responded by adopting a new and more pragmatic ethos of “hacking” work to serve a vision of the good life that expanded beyond the details of a particular job.

This was the decade of the blog-fuelled minimalism movement, which argued that if you simplify your life, you can simplify your career, leaving more time for other meaningful pursuits. It was also the decade in which a formerly burned-out entrepreneur turned life-style guru named Tim Ferriss dominated the best-seller lists with his surprise hit, “ The 4-Hour Workweek ,” which advanced a vision of using automated online businesses to support “mini-retirements” that included exotic travel and adventurous hobbies. In the early twenty-tens, the millennial philosophy of work as a means to an end was further boosted by the arrival of newer, slicker social-media platforms that made it easier to show off curated scenes of aspirational living.

Gen Z entered the workforce with a mind-set that was notably distinct from the millennials who preceded them. As the first group to fully come of age with smartphones and social media, Gen Z formed an understanding of the world in which the boundaries between the digital and real were blurred. Every experience was a potential cyber-palimpsest of self-documentation, and reaction, and reaction to the reactions. Whereas millennials, who had gained access to these tools later in life, used social media to keep track of the adventures and accomplishments of acquaintances and celebrities, this new generation embraced a voyeuristic digital vérité, characterized by the short video of a subject talking straight to camera about both everything and nothing at all. This new style of lo-fi influencer shifted the center of gravity of youth culture and began, for a small core of highly visible examples, to generate substantial financial rewards. “Every waking moment has become pertinent to our making a living,” the artist and writer Jenny Odell explained in a 2017 speech that, appropriately enough, went viral and which eventually turned into a book. For this generation, the personal had become intertwined with the economic.

Then the pandemic arrived. Though this disruption negatively affected knowledge workers of all ages, for Gen Z it delivered an extra sting. The depredations of pandemic-induced remote work—the crush of constant Zoom meetings, the sudden uptick of e-mail and chat, the loss of the redeeming social aspects of gathering in offices—stripped the last vestiges of joy from these jobs. For older employees, these conditions created a professional crisis. For Gen Z, which had so thoroughly mixed work and self, this suffocating grimness hit at a more personal level. It became clear to many that they needed to separate their personhood from their jobs. It is this transition that generates much of the angst exhibited in quiet-quitting videos. “Your worth as a person is not defined by your labor,” a defiant Zaid Khan concludes in the original quiet-quitting TikTok. To a millennial, with our work-as-a-means-to-an-end ethos, this statement sounds obvious and histrionic—like something you’d pronounce in a sophomore-year seminar. But, to Gen Z, declaring a distinction between the economic and the personal is a more radical act.

This is why so many older people are confused by quiet quitting: it’s not meant for us. It’s instead the first step of a younger generation taking their turn in developing a more nuanced understanding of the role of work in their lives. Before we heap disdain on their travails, we should remember that we were all once in this same position. For me and my fellow-millennials, it wasn’t that long ago that our own parents shook their heads at our confident plans to run an automated business from a laptop in Tulum. Our initial struggle to break free from the impossible demands of passion culture may have seemed excessive at the time, but it has, over the years, evolved into a more practical relationship between work and our sense of self.

Quiet quitting is not a life philosophy or policy proposal that needs logical scrutiny. It’s also not a political weapon to be wielded to prove how much more woke or conservative you are than everyone else. It’s both more incoherent and essential than all of that. Figuring out how work fits into a life well lived is hard, but it’s an evolution that has to happen. Quiet quitting is the messy starting gun of a new generation embarking on this challenge. The specifics of what a young engineer says in his TikTok video might annoy or confuse many of us, but it shouldn’t. The content here isn’t that important. What matters is that Generation Z is waking up to the fact that the unnatural melding of self and work induced by an adolescence lived within online spaces isn’t sustainable. They’re finally—thankfully—ready to ask what should come next. ♦

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How to quit your job professionally: 6 tips for resigning

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Steps for quitting your job

Can you quit a job on the spot.

5 factors to consider before quitting

How to write a resignation letter (with examples)

Ready to quit?

Just a few months ago, I quit my job . 

I’d been with my previous company for more than five years. I’d built solid relationships, held different positions on different teams, and had gained a lot of experience.

But I knew I needed to quit. I was ready for my next challenge and adventure. 

Like millions of other people in the Great Resignation who were also quitting their jobs, I wanted a better opportunity. 

Quitting your job can be anxiety-inducing , especially if you’re working remotely . It can feel like a breakup. You might feel a sense of sadness about leaving your teammates and friends. You could feel uncertain about what the future holds. 

You could also be burnt out and overworked. You might not have had a good relationship with your manager. Or your values might not have aligned with your company’s core values . Frankly, you might hate your job . 

But no matter how done you are with your current job, it’s important to quit your job professionally and resign from a company without burning bridges. We've provided tips below for how to do so.

A record number of Americans have quit their jobs in pursuit of new career opportunities . You might be in a position where you simply just want to quit as soon as possible.

Your impulses may be itching to just leave your role today. While rage-quitting might give you some immediate momentary satisfaction , it also can do a lot of harm in the long run.  

But what does that process of quitting professionally actually look like? Here are six steps to consider. 

6 steps to quitting a job (professionally) 

• Decide you want to quit (and when) 
• Prepare to respond to a counteroffer 
• 3. Determine what to say when you're quitting your job  
• What not to say when you're quitting 
• Send a resignation letter 
• Complete an exit interview

1. Decide you want to quit (and when) 

Be confident in your decision to quit. Once you quit, there’s not a lot of wiggle room to change your mind. 

Timing is also an important factor. For example, if you stayed with the company for just one more month, what would you gain? I’ve had friends who, when employed at publicly traded companies, have waited until equity vests, as an example. Is now a good time to quit? 

If you’re on the fence about quitting your job, try seeking advice . A coach or mentor can help talk through your options and weigh the pros and cons. 

2. Prepare for a counteroffer to your resignation 

I recently had a friend who received an offer at another company. She had decided to interview here and there with the intent of quitting her current position if she received a good enough offer. 

The job offer was tempting. It was higher-paying, increased responsibilities and ownership, and entirely remote — all reasons why she started to interview for new roles. She decided to let her manager know that she planned on accepting the opportunity. 

But in her conversation with her manager, her manager countered. She asked, “What’s it going to take to make you stay?” 

My friend took some time to think about it. And for her situation, she realized she could stay if certain needs were met. She ultimately declined the job offer . 

As more and more employees are quitting their jobs, more and more employers are doing whatever it takes to retain talent . Be prepared for that conversation: what will it take to make you stay? 

This might not even be an option for you. You might’ve made up your mind that you’re leaving, no matter what counteroffer comes your way.

But if there’s an inkling of opportunity of you staying with your current employer, consider what you would need to stay. Be prepared to respond to this question. 

3. What to say when you’re quitting your job 

As I mentioned, I made a career move a few months ago. I knew that I wanted to quit — and I knew that I wasn’t in a place where I wanted to stay with my previous employer. 

But when I signed my offer for my current position as a writer with BetterUp, I consulted my mentor . Should I call, email, or Zoom? Should I wait until my next one-on-one with my manager? What’s the best way to give your two weeks’ notice? How do I tell my boss that I'm quitting ? 

Set up a face-to-face meeting or live call with your manager (yes, it’s OK if it’s virtual). You might be leaving your current position because of your manager relationship.

Or you might be really grateful for your current people leader. But ultimately, you’ve decided there are better opportunities for you elsewhere. 

Regardless of any challenges, you may have had with your manager, they’ve undoubtedly invested time and energy in you. It’s a good idea to make the space for a live conversation out of respect — and that respect and integrity will reflect on you and your character. 

Try to structure your conversation like this: 

• Be direct about your decision to quit . Get to the heart of the matter early and be clear and direct . 
• Be clear about your two weeks’ notice. Make sure you’re clear about when your last day will be. You may want to say something like, “This is my formal two weeks’ notice. My last day will be on …” 
• Give some explanation as to why you’re leaving. Feedback is so valuable. Share a brief explanation of why you’re leaving. For example, you can share that you’ve found a position that pays more. Or you’ve found a role that allows for more flexibility . Or you’ve found a role that gives you more career opportunities. Whatever it is, make sure you make some space to explain your decision. 
• Be grateful for your experience and what it’s taught you. Even if you’ve had a horrible career experience in your current role, you’ve probably learned something from it. Express some gratitude for what you’ve learned in your current role. This also helps to make sure you’re leaving on a good note with your current employer. 
• If fitting, ask if your manager would be willing to serve as a future reference. If you’ve had a good relationship and experience with your manager, this might come up in your conversation. Ask if your people leader would be willing to act as a future reference. 

4. What not to say when quitting your job 

Burning bridges serves no purpose for you. It’s important to maintain respect and integrity, especially in this final phase of your employee experience . 

If you’ve had a terrible experience, it can be tempting to let your manager know how you’ve honestly felt. But there are ways to provide feedback without burning a bridge . 

5. Send a formal resignation letter 

Follow up your conversation with a formal resignation letter. You’ll learn more about how to write a letter of resignation in the section below. 

6. Complete an exit interview 

Many companies offer exit interviews as part of the offboarding experience. If your company doesn’t offer one automatically, request one. 

Your HR team should be capturing feedback as part of the exit interview process. In an exit interview, you have the opportunity to be a bit more candid about your experience. This helps the company look inward to identify areas for improvement . They can also identify trends (i.e. if multiple people from a specific team or department are leaving for similar reasons). 

Legally, in the US, you can do it. But should you? We don’t recommend it. 

Quitting your job on the spot doesn’t do you or your employer any good. It’s likely you’ll burn bridges in your exit. You might impact your co-workers and teammates when you leave. Your workload will likely need to be immediately distributed to others without a real plan. 

However, there are some circumstances where quitting a job on the spot might need to be a viable option. For example, you might find yourself in a hostile work environment . You could be a victim of harassment, sexual misconduct, discrimination , or other illegal activity. Consult legal counsel and your HR department. It’s important to file a formal complaint for documentation and legal purposes. 

You can also work with a coach on your “quit plan.” Your coach will be able to provide valuable insight and advice on how to best approach your situation at hand. 

5 factors to consider before quitting your job

There are a lot of factors to consider before you quit your job. According to Fiorenza Rossini, BetterUp Coach, keep these 5 factors in mind : 

• A personal conflict, commitment, or change . Now more than ever, our personal and work lives are intertwined . If your personal life has impacted your work life, you may consider a change. This might be especially true if your current workplace isn’t accommodating. For example, your spouse might be offered a dream job in another location. But your current company won’t allow remote working . Or maybe you’ve grown your family and you need to forgo any business travel. Maybe your current role was 80% travel, and you need to find something new. 
• Lack of opportunity . Human beings are living, breathing, and growing creatures. We like to learn , we like to challenge ourselves. We want to pursue opportunities to reach our full potential . If you’re missing this in your current workplace, it could be a sign that it’s time to go.  
• Lack of purpose, meaning, or satisfaction. Especially as a result of the pandemic , more employees are looking for purpose and meaning in their work. If you’re missing this in your current role, it’s perfectly normal to want to find purpose elsewhere. 
• A toxic work environment. Do you feel a sense of belonging in your current role? Do you feel safe? Do you feel like you can trust your leaders and your team? Do the company values align with your own? If the answer is no, you’re likely operating in a toxic work environment . 
• A better opportunity elsewhere. This includes things like compensation, benefits , and career growth . You might also consider things like work-life balance, professional development , and other learning opportunities. 

How to write a letter of resignation

A resignation letter can be daunting to write. But with this formula and example letter, you should feel prepared to professionally resign. 

Make sure you hit on these four key aspects: 

• Direct resignation with last day noted  
• Appreciation and gratitude  
• Transition of duties and responsibilities  
• Reiterate thanks and closing 

Here's a template resignation letter you can use. 

Dear {Insert Name},

Please accept this letter as formal resignation from my position as {insert title} at {insert company}. My last day will be {insert date}.

Thank you so much for the opportunity to work in this position for {insert time period}. I have so much appreciation for the opportunities I’ve been afforded during my time here. I’ve learned so much about {insert business components}. I know I will take these learnings with me throughout my career journey. 

I plan to tie up all possible loose ends. I will do everything possible to wrap up my current workload. I’m happy to help with anything you may need during this transition. Please let me know if you’d like to set up a transition meeting to talk through current projects. 

I wish nothing but the best for you, the team, and the company. Thank you again for the opportunity. 

{insert name} 

Ready to quit? 

The job search and job hunting is a stressful process. If you've landed a new position and are ready to make a smooth transition, congrats!

You're ready to tie up loose ends, start a new job , and officially quit your job. It's important to maintain professional relationships and leave your current job on a positive note.

In the Great Resignation, more employees than ever are re-examining their career goals . But you don't have to navigate this experience alone. The right way to quit a job may not fully exist. But there are guidelines and factors to keep in mind. Whatever you decide in your final days, you want to continue to leave a good impression.

Whether you've already received a job offer or need to polish up your LinkedIn profile, BetterUp can help. By working with a career coach , you can feel prepared for your next job. Lean on your coach and career experts for career advice.

Invest in your career

Get your promotion. Make your career change. Build the future you dream about. And do it faster with a world-class BetterUp Coach by your side.

Madeline Miles

Madeline is a writer, communicator, and storyteller who is passionate about using words to help drive positive change. She holds a bachelor's in English Creative Writing and Communication Studies and lives in Denver, Colorado. In her spare time, she's usually somewhere outside (preferably in the mountains) — and enjoys poetry and fiction.

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10 Steps to Quit a Job the Right Way (W/ Examples)

Nothing lasts forever and jobs are no exception to this rule. 

Whether it’s because you found a better opportunity or finally got fed up with an overly toxic work environment, a time might come when the urge to quit your job is just too strong. 

This can lead to a number of questions, such as: 

• Is quitting the right choice? 
• What is the best way to quit?
• Is my boss going to hate me?

To answer these or any other questions you may have on the topic, this article will cover everything you need to know about quitting a job! 

So let’s dive right in! 

10 Steps to Quit a Job the Right Way

If each of your work days starts with the thought “I hate my job,” then quitting is definitely a legitimate option. 

That doesn’t mean, however, that it should be a rushed or on-the-spot decision. After all, you don’t want to wake up a week after having quit your job and regret ever making the decision. 

And even if there’s no doubt in your mind that quitting is the way to go, you still want to do it the right way. This means quitting in such a way that causes as little professional damage as possible to you, your employer, or your professional relationship. 

We cover both of these points and more below, starting with: 

#1. Make Sure You Want to Quit

First and foremost, you've got to make sure you actually want to quit your job.

See, the thing is, feeling like you hate your job can come as a result of other reasons that, in many cases, can be patched over. 

One example is suffering from burnout. According to the World Health Organization, burnout comes from chronic workplace stress that hasn’t been managed and that causes you to react negatively toward your job.

In this case, maybe you don't need to quit your job; maybe you just need a vacation. 

Or, it may be a particularly annoying coworker or boss that makes you feel like you hate your job. This is not surprising at all, considering that 75% of employees quit their boss , not their job. 

And while working under someone you dislike can be an extremely stressful situation, consider communicating your dissatisfaction before deciding to quit (especially if you like other aspects of your job). This way, maybe you can find common ground with them instead of making a potentially bad career move. 

So in short, think long and hard before making a decision that you won't be able to reverse. 

That's not to say, though, that there aren't any valid reasons for quitting a job . If any of the following apply to you, then chances are, quitting is the right move:

• You found a better job at another company. 
• You’re looking for a better work arrangement or improved work-life balance .
• You have personal issues to deal with such as health or family issues. 
• You’re overqualified for the position. 
• You’re working in a toxic environment or you no longer like the company dynamic.
• You’re relocating and don’t have the option to work remotely for the company.
• You’re going for a career change or have decided to go back to school.

#2. Tell Your Manager First

Once you decide that quitting your job is the best option for you, it’s time to let people know.

And when we say people, we mean your manager or supervisor, not your coworkers or your work friend from another department. 

You want to quit your job professionally from start to finish, and your manager finding out from anyone who isn’t you is far from professional. 

And yes, the news will likely get out even if people promise to keep it a secret. 

So, make sure you respect workplace hierarchy and go straight to your manager before going to anybody else.

#3. Quit in Person

The thought of looking at your manager’s eyes and telling them you’re quitting might make you uncomfortable, but it’s the best way to do it. 

By quitting in person, you can ensure your manager is clear on why you’re quitting and knows you aren’t harboring any hard feelings. Not to mention, a face-to-face conversation can make it easier to ask for a recommendation, reference, or professional advice later down the line.

In short, this is the way to go if you want to be 100% sure you’re not burning any bridges or leaving a wrong impression. 

Here are some ways you can tell your manager that you’re quitting: 

Example #1: Hey John, thank you for seeing me. I wanted to let you know that I’m handing in my two weeks' notice on Monday. Working here has been amazing, but I’ve decided to focus on raising my kids from now on. I’ve already found a part-time position that I can do from home so that I can spend more time with the family. 

Example #2: Hi Mary, thanks for the time. I’m here to let you know I’m handing in my two weeks' notice next week. The reason is that I have found a job that’s much closer to my profile and that allows me to work remotely, which is something I’ve always wanted. Nonetheless, I’m very grateful to you and everything you’ve taught me over the past years. 

Example #3: Hey Margaret. I wanted you to be the first to hear that I’m handing in my two weeks' notice on Friday. The reason is that I’m relocating to Canada with my family. It has really been a pleasure to work with you and to learn from you.

What If I Can’t Quit in Person?

Sometimes, it may happen that you simply can’t quit in person for whatever reason. 

In such cases, you have two options: 

• Quit over the phone or Zoom meeting. This is the best alternative to quitting in person. To do it right, think of what you’re going to say in advance, be honest, and stay polite. Explain to your manager exactly why you can’t quit in person, don’t lie to them about your reason for quitting, and make sure to follow up with a formal resignation letter. 
• Quit over email. If you’re a freelancer or remote worker, quitting over email won’t be so frowned upon. The same advice applies here - be polite, professional, and honest. Include essential information, such as your last workday, and offer a brief but valid explanation as to why you’re leaving. Optionally, you can offer to help with the transition or until the company has found someone to replace you.

Don’t quit over a text or over a Slack message. That’s just tacky and unprofessional.

#4. Give a Two Weeks Notice 

Is giving two weeks' notice legally required? No.

Do we recommend that you do it anyway? Definitely yes. 

By giving a two weeks notice, on one hand, you’ll be ensuring you will receive all your employment-related benefits, such as severance pay and overtime compensation.

On the other hand, you will also be helpful in the transition of responsibilities and daily duties to the person taking over your role. 

Different companies may have different time frames for resigning and different conditions for receiving benefits, so make sure to check the exact policies in the employee handbook or your employment contract before deciding on when to submit the resignation letter. 

Bonus points if you can give your former-to-be employer more time than what’s outlined in your contract. That’ll help make the transition even smoother and ensure you maintain positive relations with them. 

Here’s an example of what you can say: 

I know this is an extremely busy time for the company, which is why I am giving a one-month notice. I’ll make sure all my pending tasks are completed and will help as much as you need me to find someone compatible for the position. 

#5. Submit a Letter of Resignation

Writing a letter of resignation is another must in the job-quitting process. Preferably, you should submit your letter of resignation right after telling your manager that you’re quitting to make it official. 

Here’s how to do it right: 

• Open with your personal information, the date, the manager’s personal information, and a formal greeting. 
• Inform your manager that you’re resigning in the first paragraph. 
• Express gratitude for the experience and all the opportunities in the second paragraph. 
• Offer your help in passing over the positions’ responsibilities in the third paragraph.  

And this is what this looks like in practice: 

#6. Say Goodbye to Coworkers

If you’re quitting your job for emergency reasons (or simply because you hated everything about working there), you might be tempted to leave without telling anyone but your boss. 

While tempting, we recommend that you avoid doing this.

Saying a proper goodbye to your coworkers will allow you to keep good relations with them and also make your resignation more graceful and professional. 

If you loved working with those people, they’ll appreciate you even more for it. If you didn’t, you will have acted like the bigger person, which is always a plus.  

If you don’t want to (or can’t) say goodbye to them in person, you can write them a goodbye email. 

Here are some tips you can follow to do it right: 

• Keep it brief. 
• Send a personal email instead of group emails - at least to the coworkers you’ve worked more closely with. 
• Mention something positive or something that you like about working with them. 
• Don’t brag or go into much detail about your future plans (even if they’re a significant upgrade to your current job). 
• Underline that you’d like to stay in touch with them. 
• Include your new contact information. 

Here’s an example of what a goodbye email looks like in practice: 

Dear Dwight, 

As you may already know, I’m leaving the company. My last day of work is December 12th. 

Although I’m excited about what the future holds, I’d be lying if I said I won’t miss working with you. 

Your work ethic, professionalism, and valuable insights made me the salesman that I am today and for that I’m grateful. 

I hope that we can stay in touch no matter where life takes us! You can reach me at [Phone Number].

And just like that, you’ve made sure your coworkers remember you in a good way! 

#7. End Things on a Positive Note 

So, you’ve done everything right so far – had a good face-to-face conversation with your manager, gave your notice, handed in your resignation letter, and wrote a goodbye email to your coworkers. 

There’s one more thing you need to do if you really want to end things on a positive note.

You have to help make the transition period from the moment you announce you’re quitting to your last day of work as smooth as possible. 

Here’s how to do that: 

• Work hard until your last day. It can be easy to go into “vacation mode” once you know you won’t be working for the company anymore. That, however, would increase everyone else’s workload and disturb the company’s workflow. 
• Train your replacement. If management finds someone to replace you before your last day, make everyone’s lives easier and offer to train them. After all, nobody knows the ins and outs of your job like you do. 
• Organize your files. This will make any necessary information easy to find after you’re gone. 
• Keep in touch after your last day. Help your previous coworkers and replacement by answering any questions or uncertainties they may have. 
• Offer to keep answering work emails for a month. This will also make the transition easier for people you’ve worked with outside the company (clients, partners, etc).  

#8. Don’t Badmouth Your (Former) Employer

We’ve mentioned this before but it’s so important that we’ve got to mention it again. 

No matter what happens, don’t badmouth your employer, the company, or your team. 

And when we say ever, we don’t just mean that you shouldn’t diss your former employer when asked: “ why did you leave your previous job ” during an interview. We mean don’t talk negatively in any of the following situations: 

• To your coworkers before or after you quit your job. 
• To your employer as you quit or during your exit interview. 
• On your social media channels or in a private email.  
• To your new team or coworkers. 

Why? Because nothing good can come out of it. The only thing you’ll achieve from badmouthing your former employer is looking negative, resentful, and unprofessional. 

And if your job was so toxic you’re just too tempted to say it like it is, you should still avoid saying something like this:

• My boss was THE worst! He was micro-managing, rude, and very toxic.

And opt for a more diplomatic answer:

• I don’t think I was a good cultural fit at the company. I enjoy working in a place where I have autonomy over my work, and Company X didn’t offer that.

#9. Prepare for an Exit Interview

In some cases (if it’s company policy), you may be asked to participate in an exit interview before officially leaving your position. 

The point of an exit interview is for the company to gain an understanding of its issues and what management can improve on to retain talent. As such, you’ll be asked questions about why you’re quitting your job, your personal experience with the company, and what you’d improve about it. 

This means that while an exit interview might not mean anything to you, it means a lot to your former employer.  So, try to be as constructive and professional as possible to help your former employer improve and to end your relationship on a positive note.

Keep in mind, though, that your answer should be as practical as possible. So instead of saying something like this:

• I learned a lot from working here but I hated being micro-managed the entire time. My supervisor was rude, and I found the work environment unpleasant. 

Opt for something like:

• The best part about working here was all the knowledge I acquired throughout the years. When I first started, I barely knew anything about SEO and copywriting, while now I am in charge of producing content for two of our biggest clients.  That said, I believe the company can benefit from a more individual approach to managing employees. I know that not every employer is a self-starter, but I believe those of us who have proved we are responsible to complete our to-dos without being micromanaged should be allowed more flexibility.

#10. Update Your Resume and Start Your Job Search 

Unless you’ve already found and accepted another job offer, you’re likely to start your job hunt before even quitting your current job. 

After all, you don’t want to quit only to spend time and money being unemployed until you find something else. 

Here’s what you need to do to land your next gig as fast and effortlessly as possible: 

• Find the right job. You don’t want to get hired in a new position only to quit again after a month or two. So, think about exactly what caused you to quit this job (e.g. company values, management, your responsibilities, etc.) and make sure the new positions you apply to are more suitable to your professional needs.
• Update your resume . If you haven’t been in the job market for a long time, chances are you’ll need to update your resume. For example, if you’re thinking of changing careers, then you should figure out your transferable skills and add them to your resume. Similarly, if you’re specifically interested in a remote job, then you should create a remote job resume instead of a conventional one.
• Use a resume template . Nowadays, most companies use Applicant Tracking Systems to sort through the hundreds of resumes they receive. This means that if your resume isn’t ATS-optimized, the hiring manager might not even read it. Fortunately, you can use one of our tried-and-tested resume templates. They’re modern, one-page long, and build according to the most popular ATS systems in the world.

• Ask for references. You quit your job gracefully and professionally. This means you can ask your former manager for references and they’ll likely be more than glad to give you a positive recommendation. If they can’t, you can ask a senior coworker for a reference or professional recommendation. 
• Get certified. The job market is getting more competitive by the day. This means that the more certificates you add to your resume, the easier it will be to stand out from the crowd.

FAQs on How to Quit a Job 

Do you still have some questions on how to quit a job adequately? We’ll answer some FAQs below!

#1. Can I quit my job on the spot? 

Quitting your job without any notice isn’t legally prohibited, which means that you can technically do it.

That said if your employment contract outlines a specific time frame for resigning and you don’t respect that, you may no longer be eligible for certain employment-related benefits.

Not to mention, quitting on the spot will make you look unprofessional and is likely to ruin your relations with your former employer, as you will be leaving them no time to find a proper substitute and train them without interrupting the workflow and overloading other employees with your work.  

#2. What is the best way to quit a job you hate?

The best way to quit a job you hate is to do it just like you would any other job - professionally and gracefully. This includes resigning in person, giving a two weeks notice, submitting a resignation letter, and not badmouthing your former employer or the company. 

#3. Can an employer sue you for quitting? 

Employers can only sue employees for quitting under some specific conditions. For example, if you quit after having violated the terms of previously-signed employment agreements of laws, the employer may be allowed to sue you.

Generally speaking, though, employees are allowed to quit without any legal repercussions. 

#4. How do you tell a toxic boss you’re leaving?

The best way to tell a toxic boss that you’re leaving is to remain positive and professional. 

Set up a one-on-one meeting with them and be firm but polite about quitting your job. Think of one or two reasons why you’re leaving in advance and list them during the conversation. 

Restrain yourself from blaming your boss all the work environment for leaving and, if possible, offer your help with the transition process. 

Last but not least, aim to stay positive during your exit interview, especially when discussing your boss and your team. 

#5. How can I quit a job I just started?

Quitting a job you just started isn’t great, neither for you nor for your employer. Not only will you waste their time and energy having to find someone else so soon, but you will also likely part with them on a negative note.

If you must do it, though, do it in person and have a good reason for quitting ready - preferably one that’s beyond your control. Stay positive and make sure to highlight everything that you loved about the position. 

Key Takeaways 

And that’s a wrap! By now, you should know everything there is to know on how to quit a job professionally and gracefully.

Before you go hand in your official resignation, though, here are the main points we covered in this article:

• Make sure quitting is the best option. Some good reasons for leaving a job are that you’ve been given a better offer, health emergencies, a relocation, want to change careers, or simply needing a better work schedule or arrangement. 
• Don’t tell your coworkers that you’re quitting your job before telling your manager. 
• Check your employment contract to figure out what the company’s exact timeframe is for quitting. Then give your prior notice accordingly. 
• Say goodbye to your coworkers via personalized emails and make sure to make the transition period for them and the company as swift as possible by offering them your help.

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Quit Your Job

The following essay originally appeared in print in Palladium 04. To receive original content in future print editions, subscribe here .

I quit my engineering job in 2014. I was good at it and it was good to me, but it wasn’t the future. I was still working out my plans, so I hit the gym, pursued the most interesting and important ideas I could find, and started looking for a wife.

I met her at a party. I liked her hair. She liked my name. I made fun of her career. She gave me her number. Her friend, who was into prophecy, told her I would be her future husband. It still took work, but it helps to have Providence on your side.

It also helped that I was unemployed. I had time to court her properly. I’ve heard that middle-class people with respectable jobs have fewer kids than people who don’t work as hard. I’m not surprised. She believed in the virtue of poverty and also believed in me, so we didn’t worry about money. A little over a year later, we were married with a little help from our friends. It’s surprising how many more resources you have than you might think, especially when you have a good purpose and you bother to actually call them in.

When I wasn’t lifting and courting, I was building a network of intellectuals interested in problems of governance from beyond the established liberal democratic paradigm. I didn’t know why it was interesting. In fact, I thought it was a vice. “This is bad for your career,” said the little wage-slave voice in my head, “you should be focusing on more lucrative projects.”

The little voice was wrong. It was through those intellectual networks that I got my next job and built the social capital which allows me and my friends the freedom to pursue the important problems we have been tasked with. You’re reading one result: Palladium Magazine.

The next job I got was unorthodox. Someone had asked one of my friends to refer them to the most ambitious, open-minded, and public-spirited people he knew. He introduced me. The job would give me the freedom to pursue what was most important. I was a fit, but I felt I hadn’t been unemployed long enough yet.

I debated with my collaborators over the next year or so. Is this what we really wanted to do with our lives? Or should we get safer hobbies like drunken rock climbing? If we were in, we should be in with our whole lives and deaths, and with all our resources, because this stuff can’t be pursued by anything less than the whole person. We were in. We moved from around the world to the center of the universe in California. Once there, we got jobs where we could pursue our project full time.

By 2018, the incubation had been successful. Almost exactly four years after I quit my last real job, we launched Palladium Magazine as the discourse center and beacon by which we would develop our intellectual project and attract more talented collaborators. It’s been going well. The people we’ve met through Palladium are among the best we know.

The reason any of this is worth sharing is because it’s my example of what you might call “active unemployment,” or if you prefer the traditional term, “leisure.” The Romans called it “otium.”

The Space for Exploration

There are investments you can’t make from a structured, nine-to-five, narrowly teleological environment. You have to let your life go fallow sometimes, like a crop rotation giving the land time to bring forth new fertility. This is actually a consequence of a fairly general theorem about how to find treasure in complex search spaces: The best search strategies for complex problems like life generally don’t seek out particular homogeneous objectives, but interesting novelty. The search space is too complicated and unknown for linear objective-chasing to work. Biological evolution, in practice, works through a diversity of niches which it explores in parallel to find unpredictable advances.

The key implication is that while you have not yet found the unique opportunity that will be the engine and purpose of your empire, you have to adjust your sense of value. Value is very legible within a clear plan to reach a clear objective. But you cannot pursue interesting novelty—things that no one else is doing or which you have never seen before, or the little threads of nagging curiosity or doubt—by chasing along known direct value gradients. But that’s where the treasure is. That’s how you will find the place where you need to build. To get the biggest and most interesting payoffs, you have to start by chasing merely interesting novelty in an open-ended way.

Working even a good job cramps your sense of possibility, imposes narrow objectives, and eats away at the little things that could grow into big things if they weren’t so oppressed by the rigors of existing structure. I’ve seen this with my friends, in how they are full of ideas and adventurous spirit a few months after I convince them to quit their jobs. The world is full of ideas and opportunities to explore, but it takes time outside of structure to even adjust your eyes to the landscape of possibility. You are cramped by your job, unable to make the class of investments that is necessary for a life beyond the existing tracks.

If your role in the universe is structured work within order found and built by someone else, those off-road investments are pointless. This conventional work is usually more immediately valuable than anything you could do on your own and it does not require much open-ended exploratory leisure. This efficient pursuit of predictable value is the quiet dignity of the mass of working people. But if we are to solve the bigger structural, spiritual, and intellectual problems which aren’t addressed by existing institutions, someone needs to be exploring off of the established road, where there is a high probability of failing to accomplish anything at all, and a significant probability of discovering and exploiting the next big breakthroughs.

This is part of why we need an active leisure class in society. Productive exploration requires the application of skilled personal judgment to chasing hunches and interesting problems without narrow material and objective constraints. It is generally unfair and wasteful for this to be anything but voluntarily self-funded, though some well-designed research institutions can effectively simulate productive leisure and accelerate the exploration process. Thus, speculative exploration is a special duty of those with means.

Relatedly, it’s unfair and wasteful for the people who could be out there exploring and building the future on their own dime to be either working normal jobs or simply managing their money for profit. This is a key part of what it means to be a responsible elite. You use your privilege and your personal judgment to explore and solve problems that no one else can.

If you have the resources to spend some time exploring, if you are on to interesting threads of novelty that few other people have, and if you have the spirit to tighten your belt, throw out your map, and explore off-road, then your real job is to do so. It is a grave sin to neglect that kind of cosmic duty. But many more people have the means and privilege to quit their tracked careers than ever realize it and act on it. You need far less than you think to live in monk mode and pursue this kind of exploration. What this means in practice is that at some point far before you are or feel ready, you need to quit your job.

The Leap of Faith

But this isn’t really about your job. It’s about your relationship to resources and value. It’s about whether you are building a conservative nest egg along the conventional tracks or a bold empire on the frontier. This is, after all, the point of quitting your job and exploring: to find the new lands of opportunity in which you will build an empire.

Even if you are rich and have no nominal boss, statistically speaking you are still effectively a wage slave. If all you end up doing is nursing the money, without ever exercising the authority to decide on which future it shall be spent, it might as well be someone else’s. People miss that escaping this meaningless servitude to our own capital was Thoreau’s main point in Walden . You don’t actually need the money; in reality, the money needs you to give it a worthy purpose, but everyone gets this backward. And if you don’t need to work very hard at managing the money, that’s just because your job is protected by the union. What is capitalism but the overgrown trade union of the idle rich?

Spending the money on private jets, mansions, and fancy meals is hardly much better without some driving higher purpose to give them meaning. What good does that do for society, or even for you? What grand future are you building thereby? Or is it just someone else’s desire you picked up by mimesis from Instagram? Keeping up with the Joneses, chasing the validating promotion, and slaving away at a job for material trinkets that ultimately mean nothing are not vices limited to the middle class. Or really, they are limited to the middle class, but the middle class includes most of our supposed rich—“upper-middle class,” indeed. The American dream will not free you from this cursed dharma.

True ascent beyond the kept life comes only from taking bold, determinate leaps of faith on real constructive projects. When Elon Musk pocketed his Paypal winnings, he turned around and plowed all of it into a handful of his own projects, designed to produce not just further wealth, but particular concrete futures. If he was wrong, or he didn’t perform, he easily could have been blown out and left with nothing. He very nearly was.

To make such bets you must be indifferent at some level to whether you end up a king or a monk, or even dead. The indeterminate hedge-trader with his logarithmic utility function assigns infinite negative utility to ruin. The man of action serenely regards ruin as the most likely possible outcome, mitigates it where he can, and leaps anyway. He rejects the comfortable half-existence of drifting with the indeterminate human tide and manifests his bold vision into the world. Ruin is largely an illusion in the modern world anyway. If you lose everything you own, you generally still have your network and skills. Even a nominally risk-loving financial utility function is overly conservative in practice because it’s hard to lose these intangible assets.

Life necessarily involves these fatal leaps of faith—bets which you have no certain way of knowing will work out but which define your whole existence and require your intense effort. The squirrel has no way of knowing or checking that his instinct to bury the nuts will lead him to new life in the spring; he can only trust that God has given him what he needs. Any low-risk bet comes likewise with low returns. The highest returns of life and glory come from taking hard bets on your best visions of the future and being able to make them work through dedicated struggle.

A key difference between the job life and the empire life, besides having a literal wage job or serving your money as if it were your boss, is in whether you take full responsibility for the question of ends. Are you plugged into someone else’s assumptions about value, and deferring to the existing structure, or are you maintaining and defining your own understanding of what must be done that other people can plug into?

No one can or should be the lone overman who defines all value for himself. We need to cooperate with and defer to each other to make society possible. But even if we individually can only bite off a small piece of the overall purpose structure of our society to manage ourselves, we need to actually do that far more than we do now. For any given question of ends, someone, somewhere, must be taking responsibility. Someone must make that leap of faith to define ends for the rest of us to work towards. No one else is going to do it. Why not you?

When we must we defer to a master who teaches us what to value, let us do that consciously and explicitly and personally. Let us aim to be uplifted thereby as we take responsibility for more and more of the task we are given, until the student surpasses the master to receive their visions directly from God.

You can do this before you quit your job. Transform your perspective thus: rather than seeing the job as carrying out someone else’s will in exchange for money, see it as itself your sacred cosmic duty. What important task do you do for the project you work for? How does that project fit into creating a more glorious future? How is that future pleasing to God, the proper order of things, and your own felt value instincts? Your wage is just a budget given to you to help you carry out this sacred duty; give your whole life to the task at hand, and take responsibility for its whole logic. If something in that entire chain of purpose back to the highest purposes isn’t right, fix it. You own the task and the task owns you.

First, this will make you better at your job, because you will now see the logic of the task more clearly and will make moves that disrupt the incidental form for the sake of the essential substance. By your lack of self-attachment, you will be able to inspire and enable others to work independently alongside you and pick up the slack where you fumble. Of course, you will also realize, in an unfortunate majority of cases, that the job simply isn’t that important. You are, in fact, just doing someone else’s will in exchange for money. It is not worth your life. Then you will quit to strike out on your own.

But what will you build? A business empire designed to make money with which you can buy yachts? You will have only escaped back into the metaphysical wage-cage. Haul yourself back out and take your appointed sentence of years of hard leisure while you search for inspiring purposes that are truly worth your life and for the skills and secret knowledge you will need to fulfill them. You will find them only in the strange and unjustifiable curiosities you have when you’ve been freely following informed instinct for months.

In practice, this is the hard part in actually betting your assets, privilege, and life on some grand leap of faith: you haven’t built the faith. You nurse your money in investments and imitative yacht-chasing because, like Eric Schmidt when Peter Thiel roasted him for keeping too much cash on Google’s balance sheet, you actually have no ideas. Where will you get ideas? You’ll find them out on the un-tracked frontier while playfully chasing hunches for novel value. You get good ideas from years of hard leisure.

When the time comes to take your leap of faith and build, any empire worth your time needs to be financially sound. Healthy life grows and becomes looked upon with envy. This is, after all, the only meaning of market capitalization: how much do others want what you have built? But we mustn’t confuse this financial growth for purpose. The purpose of your empire is some higher task that you have built it to accomplish. Its nature is not its market capitalization and financial flows, but the whole system of machinery that gives it a very particular strategic position and animates it towards that particular task. Financial growth is simply one operational constraint among many towards the accomplishment of its visionary ends. Ironically, it is these focused strategic empires that display the best financial performance. But don’t let the venture capitalists confuse you: that is not what is important about them.

God’s Trust Fund

The reason taking responsibility for the question of ends involves a leap of faith is that you actually have no sure-fire way to ensure that your visions are sound and good. You have only your own gut-check intuitions to provide a ground even under all your most sophisticated philosophy. But it’s either that or someone else’s ultimately ungrounded intuitions. Where the others are proven by experience, they are also tapped out as common knowledge. Life is necessarily a leap of faith.

The other reason is that to actually accomplish at your full potential, you have to start doubling down on particular bets long before you know that you can follow through. You won’t see the whole path when you begin. You will have no way of knowing whether it exists, or whether what you are pursuing is even possible. If you have more certainty than that, you aren’t aiming high enough. You have to bet your life on faith that the universe will provide if your vision is good enough.

And by and large, it will. People fear the just-world fallacy, but in practice, most supposed fallacies work just fine—especially this one. We’re actually dealing with what we might as easily call just-world providence. The universe has provided us with a certain system of natural justice.

Looking around us, we see a world filled with beautiful creatures. Everything that has flourished has done so by fulfilling some niche in its ecosystem, embodying some novel virtue, and striving hard to bring its vision of life into the world. Where a beautiful status quo is corrupted or overcome, it is often for some internal lack, or by something that has developed new virtues that will enable even grander beauty after the disruption. The preponderant beauty of the things that survive implies a justice to the logic of survival and thus providence for the virtuous.

Yes, even the bane of Darwin’s faith—the humble ichneumon wasp that lays its maggots inside the living bodies of caterpillars to eat them from the inside and burst out on maturity like some alien xenomorph—is a beautiful creature with a sacred task. Like many parasites, its role in the great chain of being is to test the health and defenses of its caterpillar host population. Its predation weeds out the sickly, preventing the much uglier injustice of collective weakness and disease, and spurring the evolution of stronger and even more beautiful life. Even fearsome Nemesis, born from chaos via night and darkness, is ultimately the hand of God and the minister of justice. Even the supposed exceptions to justice prove its rule.

There is a surplus wealth endowed in the universe to those with the virtue to win it. This is not just resources won in competition, but more importantly also the random providence that falls on you simply for thriving in novel ways. The general availability of this providence is due to the difficulty and incompleteness of the project of life. If you are going to have some faith, have faith in this: the universe finds ways to appreciate novel exploration.

If your vision is beautiful and sound, it will flourish. Resources will unexpectedly come out of the woodwork to support it. If your vision doesn’t have that virtue, you will be struck down for its lack. That’s life. It is also justice. Where this justice conflicts with our own human desires, perhaps it is we who are wrong, not God.

But even our human desires are mostly good. When we see evil in our midst, that is mostly not a failure of our own moral perception, nor of an unjust world, but just another problem that we have yet to solve. We are young in our reign and despite our occasional lapses into evil and failure we have been rewarded richly thus far for pursuing our best visions of flourishing futures and charitable goodwill. There is no reason to lose faith that this providential bounty will continue.

So take the leap, and have faith that God’s trust fund will come through with what you need. You already have the “fuck you” money and the privilege to build a better future. You just need to overcome your fears and turn to the great tasks that might inspire you if you started acting on that privilege.

Growth Through Struggle

Besides reaching its proper form in the leap of faith, life reaches its highest development in the bold struggling attempt. You will find it beyond the comfort of tracked existence and in the curiosities and inspirations one finds in the wilderness.

Adaptive systems only grow by the application of intense will against intense but surmountable resistance. This is why you learn best on the job, especially in existential situations when your head is in the crusher and you must improve to survive. A comfortable, certain, and tracked-out existence is necessarily one of little vitality and low growth. This is a key reason to quit especially “good” jobs where you have become comfortable.

This poses a slight problem for the concept of “leisure” as we have inherited it. Isn’t leisure supposed to be easy and playful? Yes, but it is also deadly serious. Life at its highest is playful, free, and leisurely as it explores a rich land of bountiful surplus. It puts most of its time into rest, training, exploration, and curiosity. But winning that land and taking full advantage of opportunity when it is found requires periods of intense struggle. Sometimes this is adversarial competition against rivals, other times it’s the exertion of building something great. Either way, a background of leisure is properly punctuated by intense high-impact projects and crises.

This is related to why man became stunted with the dawn of agriculture. We traded a life limited by the occasional violent struggle over bountiful surplus for a more predictable life limited by grinding labor after barely sufficient nutrition. Scale won out, but not health. Quitting your job, in the full sense I have described here, is a bit like quitting that agricultural life to return to a life of adventure on the wild frontier. It is a much less certain existence and a more violent one. But the combination of leisurely surplus, mortal intensity, and demand for novel virtue is where you will find life at its healthiest and highest. It is where we will find the most important destinies.

After all, it wasn’t the farmers themselves who continued to define history, but the wilder chariot-men who ruled over them and lived lives of leisure and empire.

Perhaps this is why our society has been so stagnant and uncreative in some ways for the past 50 years. We chose the path of comfort, certainty, measurable progress, and indeterminate hedging of bets. In our cowardice, we turned away from the uncertain leaps of faith of collective struggle after fatal ends that would have demanded us to truly live.

To get back on track, we must quit our comfortably lazy routines and leap back into the unknown wilderness. We must first set our curiosity and then our fatal determination on the biggest problems of our collective existence and functional justice, without assurance that we will get it right.

So quit your job and become the wild and ambitious elites you wish to see in the world. Live by instinct in the untracked frontier, shoot your shot, and live or die by your intuitive visions of what must be done. You can carry out your cosmic duty and win glory only in the bold attempt.

Wolf Tivy is Editor-at-Large of Palladium Magazine. You can follow him at @wolftivy .

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Why People Really Quit Their Jobs

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Published: Feb 12, 2019

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Crafting jobs for enjoyment, making it possible to lean in at work and at home, works cited.

• Hackman, J. R., & Oldham, G. R. (1975). Development of the job diagnostic survey. Journal of Applied Psychology, 60(2), 159–170. https://doi.org/10.1037/h0076546
• Grant, A. M. (2012). Leading with meaning: Beneficiary contact, prosocial impact, and the performance effects of transformational leadership. Academy of Management Journal, 55(2), 458–476.
• Tims, M., Bakker, A. B., & Derks, D. (2013). The impact of job crafting on job demands, job resources , and well-being. Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, 18(2), 230–240.
• Wrzesniewski, A., & Dutton, J. E. (2001). Crafting a job: Revisioning employees as active crafters of their work. Academy of Management Review, 26(2), 179–201. https://doi.org/10.5465/amr.2001.4378011
• Bakker, A. B., & Demerouti, E. (2007). The job demands-resources model: State of the art. Journal of Managerial Psychology, 22(3), 309–328.
• Saks, A. M., & Gruman, J. A. (2014). What do we really know about employee engagement? Human Resource Development Quarterly, 25(2), 155–182. https://doi.org/10.1002/hrdq.21187
• Cable, D. M., & Judge, T. A. (1997). Interviewers' perceptions of person-organization fit and organizational selection decisions. Journal of Applied Psychology, 82(4), 546–561.
• Van den Heuvel, M., Demerouti, E., & Peeters, M. C. W. (2015). The job crafting intervention: Effects on job resources, self-efficacy, and affective well-being. Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, 20(2), 266–277.
• Hackman, J. R. (1987). The design of work teams. In J. W. Lorsch (Ed.), Handbook of organizational behavior (pp. 315–342). Prentice Hall.
• Morgeson, F. P., Delaney-Klinger, K., & Hemingway, M. A. (2005). The importance of job autonomy, cognitive ability, and job-related skill for predicting role breadth and job performance. Journal of Applied Psychology, 90(2), 399–406.

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Exemplification Essay: Summarizing the Steps of Quitting a Job

Determining how to quit your work and how to communicate the news can be difficult, whether you’re leaving for a better opportunity elsewhere, relocating, or any other reason. If you want to do your job without burning bridges with your employer, you must know how to do so professionally. Consequently, leaving a job is always challenging but may be necessary for professional or personal development. Quitting a job requires a variety of preparations, including having a financial plan in place, contacting one’s employer, and completing any unfinished business. Though challenging, the task can be accomplished with forethought and persistence. In my personal life, I have left jobs for reasons like improved work-life balance or continuing my education. This paper piece fosters to paint a picture in a broad strand by discussing how I handled quitting my job and giving specific examples of how I could do so that left me on good terms with my employer and coworkers. Planning, communicating, and executing a resignation professional will help you keep your professional relationships with coworkers and superiors intact.

Reflection and Decision-making: Consider the why, when, and how of quitting your work to ensure you make the best possible decision, discover new opportunities, and successfully transition out of your current profession. Even if you’re frustrated, you should assess the benefits of staying in your current employment against the expenses of leaving. (Jabeen et al. 4). If you need help with your workload or your obligations are unsatisfying, you should speak with your boss. Holding off on submitting your resignation from your current post is recommended to avoid a lapse in employment until you accept another opportunity (Smokrović et al. 10). Keep the conversation pleasant and professional once you resign. Employers understand that employees may seek other options, and if you handle the situation professionally, you can keep the door open for future employment (Jabeen et al. 8).

Through introspection and deliberate deliberation, I could leave my position with dignity and grace, thanks to the preparation I received from quitting. First, I ensured I had a solid justification for finishing my work. As a result, it’s prudent to think about why you want to leave and to evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of doing so. Unfortunately, I wanted to graduate school but knew I could only do one job justice. When I decided to stop, I went to those closest to me for their approval and advice. Taking this action strengthened my conviction in my choice. It is crucial to define the reasons for quitting a job, whether they be a hostile work environment, lack of growth opportunities, or personal concerns. Before taking this first step, it is vital to plan for what follows, whether searching for a new job or altering careers.

Notice and Communication: I ensured my supervisor knew my destination and intentions before departing. I began by composing a resignation letter explaining why I was leaving and expressing gratitude for the organization’s beautiful chances and experiences. This is the crucial and most “official” step in resigning from employment. When you’ve discussed your resignation with your supervisor or HR, you’ll have a better idea of how much notice to give, how the transition will go, and how to word your resignation letter (Jabeen et al. 3). The letter should be longer paragraphs long. It is sent right to the point. After you’ve finished writing it, send it through email or print it out to provide to your supervisor and HR director. However, adequate notice to your employer is required before you may resign from your position. Although more significant notice periods may be stipulated in contracts, two weeks is generally seen as the norm (Smokrović et al. 5). In light of this, it is worth arguing that; the standard amount of notice given to an employer is two weeks. You should observe any notice period requirements outlined in your employment contract. You may be willing to extend your stay beyond the standard two weeks if your new job doesn’t start for a while or if you’re shifting to self-employment. Include this information in your resignation letter as soon as possible and let your employer know how much notice you will give. It’s crucial to convey your decision respectfully and professionally. I approached the conversation professionally and courteously, expressing my appreciation for the chances I’d been given and my eagerness to move on. I also made sure to leave on good terms with my company by providing plenty of notice. I also personally notified my manager and coworkers and fielded any queries they had.

Completion of Tasks and Handover: Ensure that all your projects and activities are completed and that you have handed off your obligations to your colleagues before you leave. This will help the business run smoothly even after you’ve left (Smokrović et al. 7). In my situation, I drafted a comprehensive handover document covering all bases, from current projects and deadlines to critical contacts and stakeholder information. In addition, I worked closely with my coworkers and provided training when necessary to facilitate a seamless transition. I made it a point to finish any unfinished business or projects during my notice period. To facilitate a seamless handoff, I also taught my replacement and gave any relevant background details. This benefited my former employer and allowed me to leave on good terms.

Exit Interview and Feedback: Some businesses may interview departing workers for their thoughts and ideas. In certain instances, a job may be more than just a means to an end. You may have built strong friendships with your coworkers and leaders, acquired new skills, been promoted to a higher-level job, sought increased responsibilities, and improved as an employee, depending on your tenure with the firm (Smokrović et al. 5). Expressing gratitude for the assistance your present employer likely provided in securing your new position is crucial. Take the time to individually thank supervisors, coworkers, and leaders if you worked directly with them (Jabeen et al. 4). This is not just appropriate manners but can also help you expand your network. You may have opportunities in the future to assist old coworkers, and they may do the same for you. If given a chance, you should participate in the survey and offer the company open and helpful criticism.

When I was given the option of an exit interview, I gladly accepted it, using the time to provide feedback on potential areas for enhancement while also expressing my appreciation for the help and direction I had gotten throughout my time with the company. I relied heavily on my network of loved ones, friends, and coworkers for use throughout. They kept me motivated and on track by giving me sound counsel and words of support. I also look after myself by exercising regularly, hanging out with friends and family, and engaging in pursuits I enjoy.

In conclusion, it is possible to successfully resign from one’s employment with sufficient planning and determination. Maintaining positive relations with previous bosses and coworkers requires a graceful and professional exit. Quitting a job requires careful consideration, an educated decision, sharing that decision with one’s employer, and sufficient notice. To ensure a smooth transfer, it is also crucial to wrap up any loose ends and delegate any responsibilities to coworkers. It’s also essential, particularly in a departure interview, to thank your employer for all they’ve done for you and the opportunities they’ve given you. When done with thoughtful consideration, clear Communication, and decisive action, quitting a job may be a rewarding experience that propels you forward in your career. My experience quitting a job provided a practical and emotional preparation process that enabled me to end the job confidently and respectfully. From planning to inform my employer to tying up loose ends, I made it with confidence and grace.

Works Cited

Jabeen, Qudsia, Shakira Huma Siddiqui, and Hira Salah ud din Khan. “Association between Perceived Organizational Politics and Intentions to Quit: Mediating Role of Emotional Exhaustion.”  Pakistan Social Sciences Review  5.2 (2021): 788-802. https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Shakira-Huma/publication/352539454_Association_between_Perceived_Organizational_Politics_and_Intentions_to_Quit_Mediating_Role_of_Emotional_Exhaustion/links/6145952c519a1a381f691710/Association-between-Perceived-Organizational-Politics-and-Intentions-to-Quit-Mediating-Role-of-Emotional-Exhaustion.pdf

Smokrović, Eva, et al. “The effect of job satisfaction, absenteeism, and personal motivation on job quitting.”  Journal of East European Management Studies  24.3 (2019): 398-422. https://www.jstor.org/stable/26778305?casa_token=5u8OL2ADl_8AAAAA:73wnfY3gxU28dVUUaGlwWMYZKJIPWC4h-OImdtF2n73Wm0x2xSUdjsXtOGokRUI-u2JChbvWSEh7Ron04W3WasAL1KEVozMM_YlgVgIBKZy7Wfw9bL1NzA

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• Leaving a Job

Reasons Not to Quit Your Job Right Away

When it's not a good idea to leave your job right away

Reasons Not to Resign Right Away

You’re angry, you hate your job, you need a break, you can’t afford to quit, you need the benefits, you’ll be considered a job hopper, you don’t have a departure plan in place, you don’t have a new job waiting, when you’re not sure about quitting, when you’re ready to quit.

There are many good reasons to quit your job . There are also times when it makes sense to keep it, even if it’s not on a long-term basis. If you can leave your current position on your terms, when you’re ready, the transition to new employment will be much smoother.

Waiting also gives you the opportunity to think it through to be sure that the decision you’re making to resign is the right one.

Sometimes, quitting isn’t the best thing to do. It can cost you money, and even make it harder to get hired if you don’t have another job lined up. Or, the timing may not be right .

Before you say “I quit,” review these reasons why you may not want to resign right away. Also, determine if there's any way you could change things up and learn to love your job .

You’ve had a terrible day at work, you’re mad at the boss, and nothing is going right. Quitting may seem like the best solution, but decisions made in haste aren’t always the best ones. Go home, calm down, think it through, and wait at least 24 hours to be sure you really want to quit right now.

Consider if there is anything that could be done to fix the situation and make staying a viable option. Are there things that you or the company could do to resolve the problem? If the problem could be resolved, would you want to stay?

Hating your job is a legitimate reason for quitting, but is there a way to make your role more palatable or are there other positions at the company that could be a better fit? If you like your company, your manager, and your co-workers, perhaps staying in a different position is an option.

Check out internal job postings to see if there's a role that might be a better option before you make a final decision on resigning.

Have you been working almost around the clock without a vacation or any time off? If you’re burned out from doing too much, taking some time away from the office could be a quick fix. A vacation, even a short one, can give you clarity and will help you decide what the next phase of your career should be.

If you have time off coming, don't hesitate to use it. If you don't have time off available, unpaid leave may be an option. Talk to your boss to see if you can request a leave of absence from work.

Do you have enough money in the bank to fund a job search without a paycheck coming in? Finding a new job isn’t always as quick or as easy as you might think. Even if you have a strong skill set and work in an in-demand career field, the interview process can be lengthy, and you will need to replace your lost earnings until you start a new position.

You never know how long a job search will take—even in a good job market. It can make more sense to start applying for jobs before you turn in your resignation. If you get a job offer, you'll be able to make a smooth transition to your next role without worrying about how to pay the bills.

If you have a decent benefits package, it’s important to know what will happen to your employee benefits after you leave your job . You don’t want to raise red flags with your boss or human resources department by asking too many questions about what happens after you terminate employment, but the information may be available online or in your employee handbook.

Carefully review your options for continuing coverage, and for what happens to the benefits you currently have in place when you leave.

In today’s job market, job hopping isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Many companies hire contract workers and short-term employees, and there are ways to tweak your resume to mitigate the impact. However, you will still need to be prepared to answer interview questions about why you left your job , especially if you have had a lot of them.

Quitting without a plan in place can be scary because there are too many unknowns. You don’t know how long it will take to get hired, you may spend down your bank account faster than expected, and you don’t know where you’re going to find your next job.

It’s better to explore the job market, to know which jobs you’re qualified for, how much you can expect to earn , and which organizations are hiring, in advance. A smooth departure plan will ensure a successful transition to new employment.

Of course, making the decision to quit when you have a new job to go to is easy. If you don’t, and the circumstances at work aren’t so ​difficult that you can’t stay , it makes more sense to start a careful and confidential job search while you’re still employed.

It’s easy to job search online from your phone, as well as on a computer. Many employers ​conduct phone or video interviews and you can juggle taking time off from work for in-person interviews. Fast track your job search to get hired quickly , then turn in your notice.

What should you do if you want to quit, but aren’t sure if you should? The best way to start the decision-making process is to make a list of the pros and cons of your current job, including job responsibilities, salary, benefits, schedule, opportunities for growth, company culture, and what ​your career path looks like with your present employer. If you have another job offer, ​compare your current compensation package with the one offered by the new company.

When your decision is to stay, these ​ tips will help you keep your job, and even be happy that you did.

Once you have decided to resign, it’s important to leave your job as gracefully as possible. Here’s what to do before you quit , how to tell your boss that you’re quitting, and ​examples of resignation letters to formalize your departure.

• Latest News

Why People Really Quit Their Jobs—and How Employers Can Stop It

By Polly Kang, David P. Daniels, and Maurice Schweitzer

High employee turnover remains a key problem facing many organizations across a broad range of industries.  For example , despite making high salaries, 66% of senior product managers and 58% of IT program managers say they are planning to quit their jobs. Meanwhile, 60% of emergency room nurses and 58% of critical care nurses report that  they  are planning to quit, too—despite having already invested a huge amount of time, effort, and money on specialized training for their current job. Turnover is costly because, when workers quit, it can be difficult to replace them. Therefore, it’s essential to understand  why  workers quit, especially when it can help organizations find effective ways to reduce turnover.

While workers decide to quit their jobs for a variety of reasons, our new research has identified one trigger of quitting that seems to be a mistake on the part of workers. Intuitively, it seems like being assigned to do many “hard tasks” should make a worker much more likely to quit. Surprisingly, however, this isn’t really the case. Instead, it was being assigned to do a streak of many hard tasks in a row that really made workers quit. This means that managers can reduce turnover by a substantial amount by simply re-ordering their workers’ tasks, so as to break up hard streaks. We call this strategy “task sequencing.”

Read the full article

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Guest Essay

George Clooney: I Love Joe Biden. But We Need a New Nominee.

By George Clooney

Mr. Clooney is an actor, director and film producer.

I’m a lifelong Democrat; I make no apologies for that. I’m proud of what my party represents and what it stands for. As part of my participation in the democratic process and in support of my chosen candidate, I have led some of the biggest fund-raisers in my party’s history. Barack Obama in 2012 . Hillary Clinton in 2016 . Joe Biden in 2020 . Last month I co-hosted the single largest fund-raiser supporting any Democratic candidate ever, for President Biden’s re-election. I say all of this only to express how much I believe in this process and how profound I think this moment is.

I love Joe Biden. As a senator. As a vice president and as president. I consider him a friend, and I believe in him. Believe in his character. Believe in his morals. In the last four years, he’s won many of the battles he’s faced.

But the one battle he cannot win is the fight against time. None of us can. It’s devastating to say it, but the Joe Biden I was with three weeks ago at the fund-raiser was not the Joe “ big F-ing deal ” Biden of 2010. He wasn’t even the Joe Biden of 2020. He was the same man we all witnessed at the debate.

Was he tired? Yes. A cold? Maybe. But our party leaders need to stop telling us that 51 million people didn’t see what we just saw. We’re all so terrified by the prospect of a second Trump term that we’ve opted to ignore every warning sign. The George Stephanopoulos interview only reinforced what we saw the week before. As Democrats, we collectively hold our breath or turn down the volume whenever we see the president, whom we respect, walk off Air Force One or walk back to a mic to answer an unscripted question.

Is it fair to point these things out? It has to be. This is about age. Nothing more. But also nothing that can be reversed. We are not going to win in November with this president. On top of that, we won’t win the House, and we’re going to lose the Senate. This isn’t only my opinion; this is the opinion of every senator and Congress member and governor who I’ve spoken with in private. Every single one, irrespective of what he or she is saying publicly.

We love to talk about how the Republican Party has ceded all power, and all of the traits that made it so formidable with Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush, to a single person who seeks to hold on to the presidency, and yet most of our members of Congress are opting to wait and see if the dam breaks. But the dam has broken. We can put our heads in the sand and pray for a miracle in November, or we can speak the truth.

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Politics latest: 'Emergency' prisons plan revealed - as government urged to decriminalise drug possession

The new government is expanding the early release scheme to ease pressure on prisons amid a lack of spaces - amid calls to go further and decriminalise drug posession.

Saturday 13 July 2024 10:22, UK

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We are signing off now after a big week in Westminster that saw Labour making its first moves as the new government, and the Conservatives trying to work out what their future in opposition looks like.

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The Labour MP and now minister in the Home Office tells Sky News' Electoral Dysfunction podcast that "by no means is any of this perfect" and the situation was a "terrible, terrible thing". 

She adds: "It's still not something that you would ever want to be doing. And there are still things that I worry about."

But Ms Phillips defends the decision too, especially around the exclusion of domestic abusers and stalkers from the policy, saying it is "a shift from what it was... when the Tories were doing it".

She says: "You do what you can in the initial hours that you have to do it, and that isn't the end.

"We will now work on exactly how to make sure that as many possible safeguards can be put in place for potential victims whose perpetrators are being released."

The full episode of Electoral Dysfunction will be released here later this evening, so keep an eye on your feeds.

The victims' commissioner for England and Wales has welcomed the government's decision to exclude domestic abusers and stalkers from its new early release scheme for prisoners. 

Baroness Newlove called the move a "welcome and necessary step, reflecting the concerns raised by victims and those who advocate for them".

In a statement, she said there needs to be "clear communication with victims" during the process to ensure the government has their trust, including informing them if release dates are brought forward and allowing them to request protection measures. 

She demanded the probation service is "properly resourced to effectively manage licensing conditions and exclusion zones, which are vital for public safety and victim reassurance".

Baroness Newlove added: "Public safety must remain the top priority as these changes are implemented. 

"We must acknowledge these exclusions have limitations and cannot address every potential risk."

The chief inspector of prisons is warning the move by the government to tackle overcrowding in jails will "inevitably lead to the early release of some risky offenders". 

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"How these men are prepared for release and how prisons and probation are supported in managing them will be vital."

Mr Taylor said his organisation will be "watching this very closely - as well as any plans that are developed once the immediate pressure is relieved that seek to make prisons places of genuine purpose, help people to break the cycle of reoffending and protect the public from future harm".

Former home secretary and likely Conservative leadership contender Suella Braverman has blasted the government in a somewhat odd way - namely for "picking up Tory ideas".

As we have just reported, Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood has announced plans to release prisoners who have served 40% of their sentences to help alleviate overcrowding in jails, subject to some exemptions. 

A similar plan was said to have been proposed by the now former justice secretary Alex Chalk last year, but was understood to have been blocked by Number 10 over fears of a backbench rebellion from Tory MPs. 

Tweeting after the government announcement was made, Ms Braverman said: "I opposed this, both inside & outside government.

"With 40 MPs, I tabled amendments to the Sentencing Bill to stop the early release of criminals and put public safety first.

"We managed to stop the government doing it."

She added: "Labour is picking up Tory ideas and putting the public at risk."

Ms Braverman also claimed "everyone and his mother should run to be leader" of her party when the contest kicks off. 

But she said all contenders have "got to start taking responsibility for what we did, and for the things we shamefully left undone - such as not building enough prisons".

The justice secretary has announced that the government will conduct a review into how the "crisis" in prisons was "allowed to happen".

Shabana Mahmood explained: "It will look at how and why necessary decisions were not taken at critical moments. And the lessons that must be learned by future governments, from the failures of the last."

She added: "The legacy of those who last occupied 10 Downing Street is prisons in crisis, moments from catastrophic disaster.

"Our legacy will be different.

"A prisons system brought under control. A probation service that keeps the public safe. Enough prison places to meet our needs. And prisons that break the cycle of reoffending - and create better citizens, not better criminals."

The justice secretary has set out what would happen if the government does not implement these "emergency measures" to reduce the prison population.

Shabana Mahmood said: "Soon, the courts would grind to a halt, unable to hold trials.

"The police would have to stop carrying out arrests. With officers unable to act, criminals could do whatever they want, without consequence.

"We could see looters running amok, smashing in windows, robbing shops and setting neighbourhoods alight.

"In short, if we fail to act now, we face the collapse of the criminal justice system. And a total breakdown of law and order."

She declared this "the legacy of the last Conservative government" and the consequences of their "failure" to address the issue.

The new justice secretary has placed the blame for the "crisis" in prisons firmly at the door of the previous government.

Shabana Mahmood said of the Conservative Party: "Time and again, they ducked the difficult decisions that could have addressed this challenge.

"Instead, they kept the public in the dark about the state they had left this country in. They were too weak to heed the warning signs that were flashing. They chose instead to put the country at risk."

There have been reports that her predecessor, Alex Chalk, tried to implement the emergency measures she is announcing today in order to ease the crisis, but former PM Rishi Sunak blocked it.

"But, instead of taking responsibility, she said, "Rishi Sunak called an election. He tried to hoodwink the electorate. And he was punished at the ballot box."

Echoing language used to describe the people who appeased the Nazis in the 1930s, Ms Mahmood said: "Those responsible – Sunak and his gang in No 10 – should go down in history as the guilty men.

"The guilty men who put their political careers ahead of the safety and security of our country. It was the most disgraceful dereliction of duty I have ever known."

By Mollie Malone, news correspondent

These measures from the justice secretary will be seen among the prison and probation sector as a proper attempt to reset and alleviate the immediate prisons crisis (see previous post).

But it doesn’t solve everything. Far from it.

The justice secretary admits today that the core announcement to lower the automatic release point from 50% to 40% is in itself an emergency measure.

At the moment, we are lurching from one emergency measure to the next.

There are safeguards in place that didn't exist under the previous controversial scheme launched by the Conservative government in October - allowing eligible offenders to be released up to 70 days before the end of their sentence.

Those safeguards might help offset some fears expressed by victims groups.

But it certainly doesn't offer a long term solution.

"Although it will be a law, it still does not resolve how we use prison in the long term," said one prison source.

"If we carry on with court backlogs and send more people to prison, we will be in the same position all over again," they said.

The government are committing to building more prison places.

But their prisons minister James Timpson fundamentally disagrees with that approach and thinks a third of people that are in prison shouldn't be there

There are lots of questions yet to answer about what meaningful reform looks like.

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• Russians to bid farewell to colleagues after quitting job, about an open doors day being hosted by M ..

Russians To Bid Farewell To Colleagues After Quitting Job, About An Open Doors Day Being Hosted By Moscow Libraries And Cultural Centers

Sumaira FH Published March 20, 2023 | 09:11 PM

In this digest, we will tell you whether it is typical for Russians to bid farewell to colleagues after quitting job, about an open doors day being hosted by Moscow libraries and cultural centers, and how many Russians consider themselves happy

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 20th March, 2023) In this digest, we will tell you whether it is typical for Russians to bid farewell to colleagues after quitting job , about an open doors day being hosted by Moscow libraries and cultural centers, and how many Russians consider themselves happy.

One in four Russians quits their job without saying goodbye to any colleagues, a fresh poll conducted by job search service SuperJob found on Monday after interviewing 1,600 representatives of the economically active population from across Russia .

"When quitting job , every second Russian (53%) said goodbye to colleagues orally. One in five (22%) brought or ordered treats for colleagues to work � for example, pizza, sushi or cake," the poll showed.

Another 5% of respondents said they sent farewell letters to colleagues on their last working day, while one in four Russians left "without saying a word," according to the findings.

Additionally, the poll found that it is more typical for women to organize a small farewell party at work than for men � 25% against 20%. Going to a bar, in turn, is more often typical for men � 9% against 6% among women .

Libraries and cultural centers of Moscow will hold the "One open doors day" educational action on March 25, Deputy Mayor Natalia Sergunina said on Monday.

"Muscovites and guests of the capital are invited to visit libraries and cultural centers on March 25. Within the framework of the 'One open doors day' educational action, meetings with writers, including children's book writers, workshops, excursions, photo exhibitions and other events will be held," Sergunina said in a statement.

More than 300 platforms have prepared their own programs for the educational action, the official said, adding that they include different formats.

"In libraries, you can get acquainted with the authors of popular books, listen to lectures on literature and visit book exhibitions. Performances of music and dance groups will be held in cultural centers, theater performances will be presented to the audience," Sergunina added.

Additionally, some libraries will host workshops on journalism and lectures on the Arctic, the statement read.

The majority of Russians � 82% � consider themselves to be happy, almost a quarter attribute this to the fact that they have a family , a poll conducted by the Russian Public Opinion Research Center (VCIOM) showed on Monday.

Women consider themselves happy more often than men � 85% against 77%, according to the findings. At the same time, 14% of respondents said that they feel unhappy, the poll showed.

Additionally, 42% of respondents said that there are more happy people than unhappy ones among their acquaintances. Another 36% believe that among their acquaintances the number of both happy and unhappy people is the same . Fourteen percent think that there are more unhappy people.

Among the reasons for happiness, respondents named the presence of a family (24%), health and life of both their own and loved ones (21%), general satisfaction with life (20%), a good job (19%), the presence of children (16%), and good financial situation (13%).

Slightly less frequently, respondents named the facts that they have home (8%), they are not alone (8%), and well-being in their personal lives (6%) as the reasons for their happiness.

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