When Is The Right Time To Quit?

When should I quit? This is one of the most common questions I get, and my answer is almost always: not yet!

Avoid the "Rage Quit"

Quitting in a fit of anger or frustration can feel satisfying in the moment but often leads to serious regret. When you quit impulsively:

You lose potential severance negotiations

  • You forfeit possible legal claims

  • You give up benefits immediately

  • You may struggle to find another job

  • You lose all leverage while your employer keeps theirs.

Don't Quit Without Legal Consultation

If you think you may have legal claims against your employer, do not quit without consulting an employment attorney first. Once you submit that resignation letter, it becomes almost impossible to gain any leverage against your employer because they will argue you "voluntarily resigned."

Your resignation eliminates most of your legal options and negotiating power. What feels like taking control of the situation often hands all the control back to your employer. I don’t know any lawyers who take cases like this.

Consider Leave Instead

I understand you may be truly suffering and I never recommend tolerating abuse; your health is never worth it. If you can't take it anymore, consider taking short-term disability leave aka sick leave, if your healthcare provider will support you with proper documentation. Be sure to check your employer’s policy first and keep in mind it has to get approved.

While federal law protects your job, your employer’s insurance plan still has to approve your claim. Many folks confuse these two: FMLA is a federal law that protects your job for 12 weeks, while short term disability is an insurance policy that is sometimes offered as a benefit, but it’s not required or a given.

This approach:

  • Buys you crucial time to develop a strategic exit plan

  • Preserves your legal options

  • Maintains your health insurance

  • Allows you to document ongoing issues

  • Keeps you employed while you plan your next move.

Remember: Workplace stress, anxiety, and depression can qualify for medical leave when properly documented by a healthcare professional.

Be Strategic - Plan Your Escape

I specialize in what I call "escape planning" - helping employees exit toxic workplaces safely and strategically. The right time to quit is when you have:

Health protection: You've addressed immediate health concerns

Legal clarity: You've consulted with an attorney and understand your rights and options

Documentation: You've preserved evidence while you still have access to work systems

Financial planning: You have a safety net or your next opportunity secured

Strategic timing: You've positioned yourself to negotiate the best possible exit terms

Bottom line: Don't let emotion drive this decision. Your exit strategy is too important to leave to chance or impulse.

Whether you're dealing with harassment, discrimination, a toxic boss, or a hostile work environment, there are strategic ways to leave that protect both your legal rights and your future career.

Take time to plan. Consult with professionals. Exit on your terms, not theirs.

Need assistance? Start here.

Michele Simon