When starting anything new (like a sports team) while growing up, my mom had one rule: You’re not allowed to quit. 

If I wanted to start something, I also had to finish it.

While that may be good guidance for children and teens learning what they genuinely love and don’t love, it ingrained a message in me that I have spent much of my life trying to unlearn: Quitting is bad.

I know my experience is not unique. You may understand what I mean. 

I see it all the time. So many of us stay at companies—or in certain roles—long after our time there is done. We don’t know how to leave, so we start by passively scrolling job boards or even half-heartedly applying for jobs, but none of this brings results. And so we stay—uncomfortably so. 

Or we stay even after outgrowing our role or company because we love our team and the people we work with. “Quitting” on them just feels wrong. 

But what if you tried looking at the end differently?

You’re not quitting—you’re completing. 

These two actions look similar on the surface but vary greatly in terms of mindset and results—and therein lies the magic.

Here’s how to change your mindset and end a role without feeling like a quitter. 

Mindset Reframe #1: Quitting Vs. Completing

When I left corporate, I did so after realizing no single role in that space genuinely excited me anymore. In the past, I’d always felt there was something out there I’d enjoy, but this time was different…

My time in the corporate world felt complete. 

It was that feeling that made it so much easier to move on.

For many of us, “quitting” feels like a negative action—a failure. But the truth is that leaving a job/career/company isn’t always quitting. Sometimes, you’ve simply completed your time and purpose there.  

So, give it a try. Reframe your decision to move on as “completing” a season you were in and notice how much more empowering it feels. 

There is inherent intentionality in “completing.” You can release good enough to make space for extraordinary. 

So, when you explain your decision to others, it may be helpful to reframe it this way. You have completed with intention. You’re running toward the life you want—not running away from the one you don’t—and now you get super excited about what will come!

Mindset Reframe #2: Quitting Vs. Grit

Annie Duke used to play poker professionally. Now, she makes a living as a “decision strategist.” She researches and authors books about the psychology of risk and decision-making in all areas of life, professionally and personally, including Quit: The Power of Knowing When To Walk Away. 

In her books, she agrees with the experiences noted above. From an early age, adults teach us that we’re supposed to stick to things. And now we continue to do that—no matter how bad it gets. 

But she says that we receive signals when things are going very well, and because of that mindset, we ignore them, believing that all we need is enough grit to keep going.

Sometimes, grit isn’t all it’s cracked up to be—especially if it slows our progress toward achieving a happy, healthy lifestyle. 

In one interview, Duke explained the difference between expert and amateur poker players this way:

“Honestly, if I had to pick the thing that distinguishes poker experts from amateurs, it would be quitting…Game conditions change; you get tired, you’re not playing your best, better players come in. When you’re losing, it’s very hard to get up and walk away from those situations, and experts are better at doing that. They’re better at using their chips for the really good opportunities and ditching the rest.” 

This poker lesson from Duke easily translates into our professional lives. When the signals are there, we can heed them by focusing on the good opportunities and ditching the rest. 

But—she reminds us—easier said than done. 

Always the gambler, she recommends reframing the decision by looking at your betting odds. 

Achieving happiness in your current unhappy, mentally drained position has a chance of zero. 

Taking the risk, on the other hand? The odds may only be 50/50, but 50% is much greater than 0%. 

Your best bet is to leap (with a thoughtful plan, of course!). 

5 Steps For Ending Any Position Or Career With A Sense Of Completion

1. Set your intention for the change.

Even if you’re still unsure of your next move, setting an intention is the best way to move forward with your purpose for doing so top of mind. 

For example, “I intend to explore new career opportunities that align with my values. Although I’m not entirely sure what my next role will look like, I will focus on discovering positions that let me use my strengths, prioritize my well-being, and contribute meaningfully. I’m open to learning more about myself through this process and will remain curious, patient, and proactive.”

This intention keeps you connected to your purpose—finding work that aligns with your values and strengths—while allowing space for discovery and growth along the way.

2. Acknowledge your impact.

List the contributions and milestones you’ve achieved in your current position. Often, we move on so quickly that we need a reminder to celebrate our achievements! By pausing to recognize all you’ve accomplished, you’ll leave with a more rewarding sense of completion.

3. Express appreciation to others.

Relationships are critical; take the time to show appreciation to colleagues who have supported you (I’m a big fan of handwritten notes!) and make it a point to stay in touch. 

4. Create a solid transition plan.

Prepare a document that provides the team with everything they need. Sharing knowledge will help you leave on a positive note. I also recommend creating a communication plan to ensure you talk with those most important to you. Word travels fast, and rumors can be quick to start. List all the people you want to speak with directly and set up conversations to ensure the news comes from you. 

5. Celebrate with confidence!

Even if you’re not one for big events, marking this transition is essential. Personally, I’m not usually a big party planner, but on my last day in corporate, I organized a small happy hour gathering. It was a simple get-together with a handful of my favorite people, but it created lasting joy and closure. 

Celebrations don’t have to be elaborate; a meaningful toast, a shared meal, or a few kind words from colleagues who’ve been part of your journey can create lasting memories. Honoring the transition allows you to step forward with excitement and gratitude.

When moving on from a role or career path, closing this chapter with intention, reflection, and celebration is essential. These steps will help you leave feeling fulfilled and ready for what’s next.

How Flourish Careers Can Help

Since you found me, chances are good you’re looking to make a career change infused with confidence and a sense of completion. 

As a career coach and consultant, I’ve had the honor of helping thousands of professionals worldwide find the companies and roles in which they can truly flourish—and I can help you, too.
Let’s chat. I’m here to help.

Want more career wisdom? Check out these podcast episodes!
+Crafting a Career Transition Plan
+Graceful Goodbyes