The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse symbolize the end of times in the Old Testament—conquest, war, famine, and death. More recently, the Gottman Institute identified four “horsemen” that erode marriages: stonewalling, defensiveness, contempt, and criticism.
Let’s face it—leaving a job can feel like a divorce, severing bonds with colleagues who function as a professional family. The conclusion of a work chapter disrupts the nervous system, even when departure is a desired choice. Workplace culture often provides comfort, making transitions challenging.
To mitigate the impact of career endings, Gallup researched the primary reasons employees leave their jobs. Their findings? Fifty-one percent of professionals are actively seeking external opportunities. Are you one of them?
What is the real reason you’re considering leaving? The research findings are unsurprising—yet critical to recognize. Which of these resonates most with your situation?
1. The Get Out: You’ve had enough and need to leave, even at the risk of not having another job, paycheck, or benefits lined up. My clients thrive when their next role aligns with their core values—their inner compass and authentic code for engaging with the world. While a strategic transition is ideal, abrupt exits should be backed by a strong financial cushion, as securing the right opportunity can take a year or more.
2. The Take the Next Step: Growth drives your career decisions. It’s time to leave behind a stagnant role or organization that lacks a clear path forward. My clients are ambitious, seeking environments that foster learning, Innovation, and career progression. If your current employer isn’t facilitating professional development, the next step is finding a culture that does.
3. The Regain Control: Are you being micromanaged? Whether it’s a supervisor scrutinizing your calendar or, like my husband, meticulously rearranging the dishwasher, excessive oversight can be stifling. If your autonomy has been compromised, leaving can be a strategic move to reclaim balance. Many of my clients transition after major life milestones, prioritizing work-life integration—whether it’s attending their child’s school play or caring for Aging parents. The right firm values subject matter expertise while respecting personal priorities.
4. The Realign: Your career trajectory has shifted. What once aligned with your strengths and aspirations no longer serves you. Role creep—gradual expansion of responsibilities beyond the original scope—can accelerate this misalignment. If your boss cannot help establish boundaries, seeking a new team within the same organization or transitioning to a smaller, more supportive firm may be the solution. My clients often power through their current roles while securing their ideal next opportunity with a more aligned team.
You likely identify with one of these four archetypes. Understanding your “quitting horseman” can clarify your path and expedite a fulfilling career transition.
1. The Energy Map – Track your energy fluctuations over a week. What activities energize you? What drains you? Which tasks take too long? Who do you enjoy working with? What do you dread? Identifying patterns will help you articulate your ideal role with precision.
2. The Impact Challenge – What and who do you want to impact? Is there a specific industry, product, or demographic you’re passionate about? Whether at a local, national, or global level, understanding your “impact gaps” will shape your conversations and job search strategy.
3. The Fear Monger – Fear might be the unspoken fifth horseman of career transitions. What are you afraid of? Explore the fear of staying versus the fear of leaving. Within that reflection lies the key to your next step.
Leaving a job is a profound shift, but recognizing your motivations and aligning with the right opportunity will ensure a smooth and strategic transition.
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