Thinking about leaving a job without a new one lined up? You're not alone—but you're also not taking it lightly. In 2025, more professionals are hesitating to make that leap. In fact, recent data from MyPerfectResume reveals that job seekers are now 70% less likely to quit a role before launching their job search. It’s understandable—quitting without another offer can feel risky.

Still, there are valid times when walking away is the best decision, even if you haven’t lined up your next paycheck. Whether it’s for your mental health, long-term goals, or simply to reclaim your time, here are five situations when leaving a job without another one waiting could be the right move.

1. Your Work Environment Is Harmful

If your job is impacting your mental or physical health—due to burnout, a toxic boss, or workplace bullying—prioritizing your wellbeing may justify an early exit. While it's wise to explore HR support, employee assistance programs, or even a temporary leave first, sometimes the healthiest choice is to walk away. Health isn’t a luxury. If your attempts to fix the situation haven’t worked, quitting without a backup plan is a valid act of self-preservation.

2. Staying Comes with a High Opportunity Cost

Sometimes, the real loss is what you miss out on by staying. If your job is stopping you from pursuing life-changing opportunities—like raising your children, traveling the world, or working on a passion project—then holding on might be the bigger risk. Timing matters. Children grow up, destinations change, and your energy isn’t limitless. If stepping away now allows you to honor your values or bucket-list goals, the payoff could outweigh the pause in employment.

3. You’re Financially and Mentally Prepared for the Gap

The fear of a career gap is real—but it’s not always a dealbreaker. If you’ve built savings, have a supportive partner, or plan to freelance, consult, or volunteer, then you may not feel the pinch. Employment gaps are increasingly common, and hiring managers are more understanding than ever when there’s a strong narrative. If you're already planning your next steps or know what value you’ll add next, the gap might be brief—or even energizing.

4. You’re Clear and Confident About What’s Next

Are you leaving to launch something bigger? Whether you’re planning to consult, start a business, or pursue a more fulfilling path, quitting to free up time and energy can be strategic. Some ventures require full focus or would present a conflict of interest with your current role. If you're confident that your next move aligns with your goals and values, and you're ready to bet on yourself, the clarity you have may be more valuable than short-term job security.

5. You’re Simply Ready for a New Chapter

Not every decision needs a crisis. Sometimes, you’ve grown past your current role. If your job no longer fits who you are or what you want—and you’re at peace with that—it may be time to move on. Resources like income and professional connections can be rebuilt, but your time can’t be reclaimed. If you're done, give yourself permission to be done and direct your time toward what truly matters next.

The Bottom Line: You Don’t Always Need a Net

Leaving a job without another lined up isn’t reckless when it’s intentional. The key is to assess your situation with clarity and honesty. If your health, purpose, or opportunity costs are on the line, stepping away might not just be acceptable—it might be wise.

If you're navigating this decision, take stock of your finances, lean on your network, and reflect on your long-term goals. And remember, you don’t owe anyone an explanation for choosing what’s best for you.

Found this helpful? Share it with someone who’s stuck in a role they’ve outgrown—or drop a comment to share your own experience. You’re not alone in figuring out what comes next.