Quitting has a bad rap, but sometimes it’s the smartest move, especially if you can’t give something your all. Let me share a story about a friend who chose to take it easier for a while.
I’ve really gotten into playing softball on Saturdays during the pandemic. It’s a lively group mostly in their 20s and 30s. Everyone’s competitive, sliding into bases, diving for balls—the works. And yep, they even keep stats.
Now, I’m in my mid-40s with two young kids, so I’m just there to have a good time without winding up injured. If I push too hard, it’s tough to play with my kids later, which is way more important to me than making a spectacular catch. I usually give about 75% effort, which keeps me in the top half of the players without risking a trip to the ER.
Despite this, some of the younger guys occasionally call me out for not pushing harder, which feels off. But, you know, sports and trash talk go hand in hand. Among the regulars, one guy is 26 and loves his post-game beers, and we never really click. Another is 37, living with roommates, and his mood can flip in an instant. For them, Saturday softball is serious business.
Then there’s another guy, 38, who used to hassle me a lot. Over time, we actually became buddies. He used to swear he’d always play hard, even after having kids. That changed when he slid into second base one game and messed up his knee. After that, he couldn’t run at full speed, and eventually, he stopped playing for a while, especially after his baby arrived.
This friend always gave me a hard time for not going all out. But after his injury and becoming a dad, he finally saw my point of view. He’s back to playing now, but he’s lost a step and doesn’t dive into the games like before. He still talks big, though, even blaming others for his own mistakes on the field!
Seeing him step back made me think about other times when quitting something might actually be the smarter choice. Like with my finance job back in 2012, my heart wasn’t in it anymore. So I stepped down to let someone else, who was really eager and motivated, take over. It felt right to quit rather than just coast along for a paycheck in a cutthroat field.
And if you do decide to quit, try to negotiate a severance. It gives you a financial cushion and makes the transition smoother without burning bridges.
Sometimes, stepping back from something can also be a form of self-respect. Like watching a sports legend who doesn’t retire on top—it’s tough seeing them struggle past their prime. Quitting at the right time can help preserve your legacy instead of overstaying your welcome.
And let’s not forget, quitting can free you from unrealistic expectations. Like the blogger who won after winning an award but couldn’t handle the pressure and expectations that followed. She quit blogging regularly, avoiding the stress while still retaining her title.
In business, selling your company can be a form of quitting too. It lets someone else who’s more passionate take over, benefiting everyone involved, including the customers.
Even personal relationships can reach a point where quitting, like getting a divorce, is healthier than sticking it out in a harmful situation. It’s tough, but sometimes it’s necessary for everyone’s well-being.
Lastly, sometimes quitting your pursuit of money for a simpler, happier life can be rewarding. After I left my finance job, I focused on building my blog, which let me live on less while doing something I loved.
Quitting isn’t just giving up—it can be a strategic choice that leads to better health, happiness, or new opportunities. Sometimes, you’ve got to quit something to start something even better.
