Is it Time to Quit? Ask Yourself these Questions

IIs it time to quit? Ask yourself these questions when you have time to sit and reflect. Answer honestly, and without judgement (from yourself, and perceived judgements from others).

Dear Spirited Earthling,

The word ‘quit’ has a negative connotation. Being committed and persevering are valuable traits. But there are also times when quitting is the best thing you can do for yourself (and, sometimes, for those around you).

Knowing When to Quit

Quitting is better than persevering or staying in the situation when:

• staying in a situation is detrimental to your physical or mental health. This can apply to toxic relationships, abusive workplaces, or any environment that poses a threat to your well-being.

• your goals and priorities evolve and the path you are on no longer aligns with your values or objectives.

• you've invested significant time and effort into something, but the returns or benefits are diminishing.

• alternative paths or strategies will be better for overcoming insurmountable obstacles or challenges.

• staying committed to one endeavour is preventing you from seizing better opportunities coming your way. In some cases, quitting opens the door to new and more promising prospects.

Quitting can also help your personal growth because it can be a valuable learning experience. It allows you to reflect on your goals and adapt your approach based on what you've learned from your previous efforts.    

Is it Time to Quit? Ask Yourself these Questions

Knowing when to quit and when to keep going is a skill that you can work on. Ask yourself these questions to get clarity on your situation (seeing it for what it is and not for how you feel about it). By looking at the pros and cons of quitting vs. persevering (a cost-benefit analysis, if you will), you can make decisions that are informed and less emotionally charged.

Have you made any measurable progress toward the achievement of your goal so far?

If yes, ask the follow-up question of whether the progress is enough to warrant the sacrifices you’re making.

If no measurable progress was made, then ask yourself why not:

·       Can something be changed?

·       Is this goal beyond what is possible at this time in your life, and should be revisited at another time? 

Is pursuing this goal helping you grow as a person?

Your actions should help you become the person you want to be.

·       If you are constantly angry and releasing it on those around you, is this goal worth hurting yourself and others?

·       Do you feel drained and emotionless trying to make this thing happen?

·       Are you feeling motivated and excited to take actionable steps to meet the goal?

What is the feeling you get when thinking about continuing to work towards this goal?

If you are feeling anxiety and resistance, then it may be time to quit.

If you’re feeling gratified and happy to keep working on it, then it may be good to keep going.

Since beginning to work towards your goal, do you have more information that makes pursuing it less worthwhile?

As you become more involved with something, you learn more with the additional information that comes to you. Knowing what you know now, would you choose to pursue this goal?

If you would rather not start it, then it is likely time to quit and pivot to something different. 

If your best friend was in this situation, would you tell them to quit or persevere?

It is often easier, to be honest with a friend than with yourself. This question can bring more objectivity to your decision to quit or carry on.

If you continue working towards this goal, will you recoup the investments you have already made, or will you continue throwing good money after bad?

Look at your resources and decide if you’re willing to part with more.

It is not about what or how much has already been given and spent. It is about deciding whether your resources will be better spent elsewhere.

Are there reasons to believe things will improve, and good progress will be made if you continue pursuing this goal?

·       What would need to happen for things to improve?

·       How likely to happen are these things?

Be honest, and remove any feelings of shame or regret. Today is a day you can make a different decision.

Is it time to quick? Ask yourself these questions when you have time to sit and reflect. Answer honestly, and without judgement (from yourself, and perceived judgements from others). Age should not be a limiting factor when it comes to pursuing new interests, careers, hobbies, or personal goals. History does not equal value - simply having a long history with someone or some place, or investing a significant amount of time in something or someone should not be the sole basis for staying in a situation that is no longer fulfilling or healthy for you. Remember, this is your life and your story, and you can rewrite it at any time you choose.

Spirited Earthling is more than just a blog – it's a gathering place for kindred spirits drawn by an interest in self-discovery, the appeal of self-care, and a desire for a deeper connection to the world. Written and created for curious minds and spiritual hearts seeking meaning in everyday life, this blog aims to help you curate your wholesome personal growth with free weekly ideas and affordable resources for sale.

As you navigate your personal growth journey using the words and ideas shared here, consider sharing this blog with someone looking for inspiration or motivation on their own journey. We are all spirited earthlings, and can lift each other together with mindful, connected living.

Thank you for being part of this community.

Best wishes, warmest regards

Jordan

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