by Scott Hayden

Created on: March 13, 2009   Last Updated: April 19, 2012

The desire for more independence is a good reason for quitting your job. Or, perhaps you're fed up with office politics. If you are contemplating a move of this nature think it through carefully, since it's vital to have a plan when you jump ship. However, sometimes you won't need to think about it for too long. Here are some life changing reasons why you would want to leave your current job.

Greener Pastures

You are offered a position that's a better fit for you, and there's more money attached to it. It would be hard to refuse something like this. Most bosses will understand that although they may have given you the important skills to do a particular job, employees want to enhance their career prospects. This is the most common reason why people leave.

Having Children

If you're married and have just had a baby, your priorities are going to change pretty quickly. You'll need a more flexible schedule to take care of the newest addition to your family, and your job may have to work around you — not the other way around. If your boss can't, or won't agree to adjust your schedule it may be time to move on.

Physical and Mental Illnesses

When the job makes you sick it's just as unpleasant as it sounds. People are not machines, and sooner or later overworked employees will break down completely. Even if you can't figure out exactly what is causing the problem continuing to work will have serious consequences. Listen to what your body is telling you.

Stagnant Careers

Other reasons for leaving your job may have been a long time coming. You might be bored to tears. Even the best jobs can turn sour after a while. When you feel like you've outgrown your job and nothing substantial or challenging seems to come your way, start hunting elsewhere.

Poor Compensation

The benefits are either not sufficient or they don't exist at all. Everyone likes to have some extra perks to go along with a salary, like health insurance and retirement/pension plans. But if these are not enough to supplement your paycheck or if your employer doesn't offer them it makes working, not to mention living, that much harder.

Poor Treatment

Are you being ignored? It's a shame but this happens everywhere. It doesn't matter if you're the company's golden boy/girl. If you take the initiative and are creative but others respond by dumping mundane tasks into your lap, this is unlikely to change. There's nothing worse that being treated like you're invisible.

Starting an Independent Business

Maybe you have always wanted to do something else. In the back of your mind you could have an idea for a small business, or perhaps you're a budding restaurateur. Once you can put your finger on what's prompting you to leave your job, you can focus on your future goals. The most important ingredient is honesty. Be honest with yourself and about yourself.

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