The Kate Languages Podcast - S6 Ep3 - Knowing when to quit
Feb 03, 2025
For the third episode of season 6 of the Kate Languages Podcast, I talked about red flags that give you a clue that it's time to quit... or at least move to a new school or job.
Here is a summary of the episode - click above to listen to the episode in full.
Knowing When to Quit: Five Signs It's Time for Change
When your body tells you it's time to quit, it's crucial to listen. Recently, while working on a major project with a global corporation, I recognised these signs myself and made the difficult decision to step back. Here's what I've learned about identifying when it's time to make a change.
Physical Symptoms as Warning Signs
The first and most obvious sign is feeling physically ill. Before leaving teaching in 2017, I experienced persistent nausea and back pain. These weren't random ailments - they were my body's stress responses. I now recognise that physical symptoms, particularly in areas where we hold stress (for me, neck, shoulders, and stomach), can be clear indicators that something needs to change.
When Your Values Don't Align
The second sign appears when your work conflicts with your core values. I experienced this with Twitter (now X), which led to my departure from the platform. In teaching, it manifested when administrative requirements began prioritising paperwork over genuine student progress. If you find yourself consistently compromising your values or raging against systemic issues, it might be time to consider alternatives.
The Breaking Point: Concerning Thoughts
A particularly serious sign is fantasising about minor injuries to get a break. While it might sound extreme, thoughts like "If I broke my arm, I could take some time off" are red flags that shouldn't be ignored. These intrusive thoughts often indicate severe burnout and may require professional support to address.
Escapism and Procrastination
The fourth sign manifests as constant procrastination or persistent daydreaming about alternative lives. If you're spending more time imagining running a café than focusing on your work, or if you're cleaning (in my case, a clear avoidance tactic) instead of tackling important tasks, it's time to reassess your situation.
The Financial Reality Check
Finally, consider the financial implications. While acknowledging my privileged position - having my partner's income as support when I left teaching - it's important to evaluate whether changes could actually improve your financial situation. This might mean reducing hours, dropping additional responsibilities, or exploring better-paying opportunities.
Making Changes Sustainably
Remember, "quitting" doesn't always mean walking away entirely. It could mean:
- Reducing your hours
- Changing schools
- Dropping additional responsibilities
- Finding a different role within education
For those feeling trapped by financial constraints, consider incremental changes. Could you afford to work 90% time? Could you shed a TLR that's causing stress? Small changes can sometimes provide the relief needed without complete upheaval.
If multiple signs resonate with you, it's worth seriously considering your options. While dramatic changes aren't always possible or necessary, recognising these warning signs early can help you make informed decisions about your career and wellbeing before reaching a breaking point.
Remember, prioritising your wellbeing isn't selfish - it's essential for sustainable teaching practice and effective student support. Whether you choose to make small adjustments or significant changes, acknowledging these signs is the first step toward a healthier professional life.
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