This post was updated May 2025
Many of my clients come to me when they’re ready to leave their jobs. Some know exactly why. For others, it’s more of a lingering feeling that something just isn’t right anymore. One of the first things we work on is the exit strategy—how to leave well, with intention and clarity.
Why Are You Leaving?
Before you make any moves, get clear on your motivation. What’s going on? What’s changed? How does this version of work feel different from how it used to?
Some common reasons include:
- Stress or burnout
- Conflict with a colleague
- Feeling bored or stagnant
- Changes to your working hours or role
- Feeling undervalued or overlooked
- A loss of direction or confidence
- A shift in personal circumstances (e.g., moving house, becoming a parent)
Sometimes, the reason isn’t obvious—it’s more of a misalignment between your values and those of the company. This can happen after a restructure, leadership change, or even a shift in your own life perspective due to events like grief, growth, or becoming a parent.
Ask yourself:
- What’s changed?
- Is there anything that could make your current role more enjoyable?
- Are you trying to escape something… only to end up repeating the same pattern elsewhere?
Clarity here helps ensure that your next step is a better fit—not just a different one.
What’s Your Plan?
If you’re sure you want to leave—and especially if you’ve handed in your notice—it’s time to plan what you want to achieve in your final weeks or months.
This is your exit strategy.
Some people want to leave on the best possible terms with their employer. That’s generous and admirable—but not at the expense of your own wellbeing, goals, or peace of mind.
The two most common exit traps:
- Over-promising what you can deliver, then feeling bad when you can’t do it all.
- Tapping out too early and coasting through the last weeks, which can leave you feeling disengaged and regretful.
Your Exit Strategy: 5 Key Questions
- How do you want to feel on your final day?
Picture it: you’re packing up your things, saying goodbye. What emotions do you want to carry with you—calm, proud, excited? What do you want to have achieved? Use those feelings to guide your priorities now. - What’s on your task list?
Make a list of everything that needs to be done. Then, ask:- What’s truly essential?
- What can be delegated or shared?
- What could be delayed, handed over, or even dropped?
- What skills do you want to use and showcase?
Focus on the strengths you want to use more in your next role. How can you bring them into your work now to build confidence and momentum? - Who’s in your network?
Who could support you in this transition—practically or emotionally? You may need someone to help you manage your current workload, offer mentoring, or even open doors to future opportunities. Remember: 70% of jobs are found through personal networks. - What’s your support system?
Whether it’s a coach, mentor, or trusted friend, make sure you have someone who can help you think clearly and stay grounded through the change.
If You Need to Leave Immediately
Sometimes, your health—mental or physical—requires you to walk away before a full exit plan is in place. If that’s where you are:
- Please speak to your GP first.
- Take some time off, if possible, to gain perspective.
- Bring someone with you to HR if needed.
- And if it comes to handing in your notice, know that uncertainty can feel scary—but it might still be the healthiest move for you.
Having an impartial person to talk things through with can make a big difference.
Final Thought
Whether you’re preparing for a career move or planning parental leave, a thoughtful exit strategy gives you clarity, confidence, and a sense of closure. It sets you up for success—not just for what comes next, but for how you leave this chapter behind.