Keep separate progress for different goals, roles, or time horizons.
The path ahead
Sometimes staying is the wrong choice. But how do you know? And when you've decided to move on, how do you exit professionally without burning bridges? This path helps you objectively assess whether you should stay, craft a positive exit narrative, and execute a clean transition.
Follow this path to make a confident decision and leave on terms that protect your professional reputation.
Step 1 of 4 · 2 hours
Step 1: Situational Audit
A framework to separate 'bad manager' from 'bad career path'.
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Check off these key actions to complete this step:
Coach's Perspective
Ask: Is this fixable with a new manager? Different team? Or is it the company/industry fundamentally wrong for me? Stay if you're 80% happy. Leave if you're under 60% and see no path up. Leaving when you're burning out costs you.
Check off these key actions to complete this step:
Coach's Perspective
Frame it as growth-seeking, not escape-seeking. Say 'I'm excited to focus on X' rather than 'This place was toxic.' Practice your pitch until it feels natural. Never badmouth your current employer—the world is small.
Check off these key actions to complete this step:
Coach's Perspective
Update your resume while you're still at the company—it's faster to remember your wins. Use the '% improvement' or '$X revenue' format for impact. LinkedIn should be current and professional. Ask for recommendations before you leave.
Check off these key actions to complete this step:
Coach's Perspective
Look for 'people you know' at target companies. Warm intros through LinkedIn or mutual connections beat cold applications 10x. Start networking 3-4 months before you plan to leave—it buys time and options.