Most of us have been there, the creeping feeling that maybe, just maybe, it’s time to move on from a job.

Maybe it starts as a whisper, an occasional thought that crosses your mind after a tough day. Or maybe it’s more like a nagging voice, growing louder each time you face yet another misalignment with the company’s values, your manager, or the work itself. Knowing when to leave a job isn’t just about paychecks, benefits, or even titles; it’s about recognising when staying is holding you back rather than pushing you forward. So, how do you know if it’s time to go?

Here are a few signs to look out for:

• Your Growth Has Plateaued
  Remember when you started this job and felt challenged, motivated, and eager to learn? If you’re finding that the work no longer excites you, and the growth opportunities have dried up, it may be time to move on. Growth is fundamental to feeling engaged and fulfilled at work. If your role feels like a dead end and there’s no chance to stretch your skills or take on new challenges, staying could do more harm than good.

• Your Values Are at Odds with the Company’s
  As we progress in our careers, our values and what we seek from our work often change. If you’re realising that the company’s mission, ethics, or approach clash with what you stand for, this misalignment can create a feeling of discontent that won’t be solved by pay raises or perks. Working for an organisation whose values you can’t wholeheartedly support can be draining—and over time, it can erode your sense of integrity and satisfaction.

• You’re Dreading Monday Mornings (or Every Morning)
  Everyone has a few rough Mondays here and there, but if the dread is constant, it’s worth digging deeper. Ask yourself if it’s the work itself, the team dynamic, or something about the culture that’s eating away at your motivation. Constantly feeling anxious or miserable about going to work is a sign that something isn’t right, and it might not be something that can be fixed by sticking it out.

• You’re No Longer Learning
  Ideally, a job should challenge you in ways that help you grow. But when you’ve mastered the tasks, feel uninspired, or aren’t developing any new skills, it can lead to stagnation. Learning shouldn’t stop just because you’re no longer “junior” in your field. If you feel like your job is on repeat, it may be time to seek new opportunities that will expand your abilities and reignite your enthusiasm.

• Your Mental and Physical Health Are Taking a Hit
  A job should challenge you, yes, but it shouldn’t be damaging. If you’re noticing signs of burnout, like constant fatigue, irritability, or even physical symptoms of stress, it’s a clear signal to pause and re-evaluate. Work is an important part of life, but it isn’t worth sacrificing your well-being. If your job environment is consistently toxic, stressful, or unmanageable, it may be time to prioritise your health and make a change.

Why We Stay Too Long

Knowing when to leave and actually leaving are two very different things. Many people stay in roles that are no longer serving them for a variety of reasons—loyalty, fear of change, financial dependence, or even just plain comfort with the familiar.

Here are some common reasons people stick around longer than they should:

• Fear of the Unknown: Leaving a steady job is daunting. The fear of what’s next can be paralysing, especially if the job market seems unpredictable or the “perfect” job isn’t waiting for you right away.

• Golden Handcuffs: High pay, benefits, or status can keep people in roles that make them unhappy. Walking away from financial security is tough, and it requires serious consideration of what you’re willing to trade for your well-being and fulfilment.

• Loyalty to Team or Company: Many people stay because they don’t want to let down their colleagues or feel a sense of loyalty to the organisation. Loyalty is a wonderful trait, but if the job no longer serves you, staying out of guilt can lead to resentment, impacting both your performance and morale.

Trusting Yourself to Take the Leap

Leaving a job can feel like a monumental decision, especially if you’ve invested time and energy into it. But the most important relationship you have in your career is the one with yourself. Trusting yourself to know when it’s time to move on is crucial to your growth and happiness.

If you’re struggling to make the decision, try this exercise: imagine where you’ll be if you stay in your role for another year. Then imagine where you could be if you spent that time in a job that challenges you, aligns with your values, and supports your goals. Sometimes, envisioning the cost of staying can bring clarity.

Take the Leap, but Take It Smartly

Leaving a job doesn’t mean you have to jump without a plan. Consider how you can set yourself up for a successful transition:

• Evaluate Your Finances: Make sure you have a safety net or backup plan. Having a financial cushion can make the decision to leave less stressful.

• Network and Research: Take time to connect with people in fields or companies that interest you. Networking and informational interviews can help you learn about opportunities that align with your interests and values.

• Develop Skills: If there are gaps between where you are and where you want to go, take proactive steps to close them. Whether it’s online courses, certifications, or gaining experience in a specific area, building relevant skills can increase your confidence in making a change.

Remember: You Deserve a Fulfilling Career

Knowing when to leave a job is about recognising your worth and understanding that you deserve a career that challenges, excites, and aligns with who you are. Work is a big part of life, but it shouldn’t become a source of constant stress, disillusionment, or regret. If the signs are there, trust your gut and be brave enough to explore new possibilities. There’s a good chance that by letting go of a job that no longer fits, you’ll find something that truly allows you to grow, contribute, and thrive.

So, if you’re feeling the nudge to leave, consider this your sign. The next chapter of your career could be the most rewarding one yet, but only if you have the courage to take that first step.