Is it time to break up with your job?

Last week, in a move that shocked the sports world, the Dallas Mavericks traded Luka Dončić—their franchise player, the face of the team, the guy they built everything around.

If someone as indispensable as Luka isn’t immune to a trade, what does that say about the rest of us?

Too many workers assume loyalty guarantees security. It doesn’t. Just like in sports, businesses will make decisions based on what they think will benefit them most—whether that means restructuring, cutting costs, or replacing top talent.

The lesson? You need to start treating your career like a business—because your employer certainly does.

So the real question is: should you stay or should you go? More on that below!

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Should you break up with your job?

Finding the perfect job is just as hard as finding ‘the one.’ Some jobs are fulfilling and help you grow, while others leave you stuck, drained, or questioning why you’re still there. Sometimes, you hold on, hoping things will change (news flash: they won’t).

But if your job is giving you the ick—constant micromanaging, pay that doesn't match your worth, or vibes that just feel off—it might be time to have “the talk” about what’s next.

Signs It’s Time to Leave

The best way to avoid a bad job situation is to spot the warning signs early. The sooner you spot these red flags, the sooner you can plan your next move.

• You feel undervalued – Your hard work is met with crickets or worse, more work without a raise. If your boss only notices you when they need something or it’s time for an annual review (with no real raise), that’s a huge sign you’re in the wrong place. Feeling appreciated shouldn’t be a once-a-year event.

• Toxic environment – You dread Mondays, not just in the “Sunday scaries” way, but in the “I feel completely drained before I even get out of bed” way. A job should challenge you, not stress you out with gossiping teammates, immature leadership, bad work-life balance, or any toxic trait that keeps you up checking (Slack) messages late at night.

• Growth? Never heard of her – You’ve outgrown your role, and there’s no room to climb or pivot within the company…it’s like dating someone who refuses to commit. Between being passed over for promotions, getting the same repetitive tasks, or hearing that there’s no budget for development, it’s probably best you don’t stick around waiting for change. Instead, opt for an employer that sees your potential and wants to invest in your growth.

• You daydream about quitting – If “I should quit” has become your main personality trait, in and outside of work, chances are your subconscious is already out the door. Fantasizing about handing in your resignation or daydreaming about doing anything else for a living…it’s your brain’s way of telling you that you deserve better. Listen to it.

Making the break

Recognizing the signs is one thing, but actually leaving? Well, that’s where things get real (and sometimes a little scary). Not because you can't, but because of fear of the unknown. Just like ending a relationship, a job breakup can feel overwhelming—even if you know it’s for the best.

The key is to take control of the process by mapping out your exit plan: update your resume, start networking, and set a timeline to get it all done. Because when it comes to breaking up with a job, you want to do it on your terms.

It’s not you, it’s me (but actually, it’s you)

No ghosting—let’s do this the right way. Unlike some relationships, corporate bridges sometimes have a way of circling back around, so you should try to leave on the best terms possible (no crashing out!). Here’s your game plan:

Start emotionally detaching – Before you send that resignation email, begin removing yourself mentally. Don’t overextend, avoid “personal” attachments, and set boundaries. Then, prepare yourself for the change: create a contact list and document your outstanding projects.

Get that post-breakup glow-up – Have your resume, LinkedIn, and references ready. Maybe even slide into the DMs of a recruiter. Bottom line? The best way to leave a bad job is to have a better one already lined up. And don’t forget to negotiate your salary, you can use these scripts to lock down a higher-paying job.

Give proper notice (or not?) – It’s considered standard practice to provide two weeks’ notice when you’re ready to move on. Although it’s not always ideal, this gives your employer enough time to transfer your role and responsibilities to someone else with your present support.

But what if your job was toxic? Then, the decision becomes more complex. If the roles were reversed, they might have you out the door by the end of the day, with all access denied. Trust your gut in this decision; it’s important to protect your professional reputation and your peace.

Exit gracefully – Whether you loved or loathed your job, future you will appreciate keeping things civil. You never know when a bridge you didn’t burn might come in handy. Leave on a positive note where possible with your head held high.

At the end of the day, breaking up with your job is about putting yourself first. If your workplace no longer serves you, it’s time to move on with confidence, not regret. The goal? To have a job that recognizes your value - and a career path that reflects it.

Join us on Instagram Live from 12-1 PM ET this Valentine’s Day to learn:

- What (and how) to monetize your content on social media
- Which social platforms pay us the most (and least)
- Best practices that helped us earn over $1M

Plus, get a free handcrafted beverage at your favorite Capital One Café!

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Did you catch Hannah’s interview on Per My Last Email? We traveled to New York City to sit down with Kaila and Kyle at Morning Brew to talk about:

• The importance of salary transparency

• Why it’s still such an uncomfortable thing to talk about

• How to negotiate for a higher salary

Plus, we play a fun salary guessing game at the end!

If you prefer to listen, tune in to Spotify here.

• Are You Underpaid? Take our free quiz to find out.

• Speaking of Quitting…These companies are reducing their workforces.

• New Pay Transparency Laws: These states are moving the needle forward.

• Union Sues Over CFPB Access: The National Treasury Employees Union, which represents employees in the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, has sued the bureau’s acting director. What comes next?

• Retirement Plan Tax Break: A new federal program launching in 2027 offers low-income savers a 12% retirement boost—free money for the future.

One last thing! Ever heard of Unrivaled? Our new favorite women’s basketball league is taking the sports world by storm, and players are cashing in!

These star athletes are currently competing in a special 1-on-1 tournament, where the winner takes home $200,000! That’s more money than most of these players make from an entire season playing in the WNBA. 👀

The tournament continues tonight, with competitive matchups tipping off at 7 PM ET. Tune in on TNT, TruTV, or MAX!