We’ve all been there. You walk into work on Monday morning with your head hung low. Like clockwork, your employer greets you with endless work and unrealistic timelines. You somehow juggle everything before the end of the day only to realize you still have four more days of the same to look forward to. You’re unfulfilled, stressed, and unable to achieve any of the career goals you once had.

Do you try to find another job? Is it worth quitting this one until you find the next?

Chances are most people have asked these questions at some point in their careers. No one likes to feel like they’re stuck in a dead-end job, and many people find it hard to stick it out until they find something better. Still, is it a bad idea to quit a job without something else lined up? Here are two areas you should consider when making this decision and the pros and cons of each.

When Developing Your Career

Pros: Making the choice to leave a job, especially one where you feel hindered in your career can have real benefits in your professional development. Taking some much-needed time off can help you concentrate on what’s important to youand your financial goals. Being without a job can help you stay motivated in finding a new career that’s right for you and shows confidence in your abilities when interviewing for new positions.

Cons: Depending on the industry you’re applying to, it can take a while to find a new job. There is a risk of losing the motivation and momentum you had when actively working in your field. Potential employers will inquire about why you left your last employment without another job lined up. While you may have a good answer for this, it may lead to false assumptions about why you no longer work for the company.

When Managing Your Stress

Pros: Getting out of an unhealthy working environment can not only help you manage stress, but it also has other emotional and even physical benefits. Reducing stress is also good for your professional and personal growth as it helps you think clearly about your future and what you want for yourself. Having a calm demeanor can also help you interview better.

Cons: While leaving a stressful job can be good for you, not having another job to move on to can add stress in the form offinancial struggles and fear of the unknown. Long-term unemployment can be extremely stressful, so be sure to weigh all your options before making this decision. It can take time to find another job that’s right for you and there is a risk of getting desperate as time goes on, forcing you to settle for a position that is less than ideal.

When deciding on whether you should leave your current job, consider all the implications of quitting without another offer on the table. By taking the time to weigh all your options, you will make the decision that’s right for you, and that gives you the ability to grow personally and professionally.

For more tips on how to make your next big career move, contact our experts or call us at (918)-584-7900.