Leaving a job can feel emotionally complex — but it’s often a healthy and necessary career move. Here’s why guilt shouldn’t hold you back.
Feeling Guilty About Leaving Your Job? You’re Not Alone
Leaving a job — whether you've been in the role for 6 months or 6 years — can stir up a lot of emotion. For many professionals, excitement about the next chapter is accompanied by a very real sense of guilt.
You might feel like you're letting your manager down. You might worry about the impact on your team or your clients. Or you might even question whether you're giving up too soon on your current path.
But here’s the truth: leaving a job for the right reasons is not selfish — it’s smart career management.
In today’s job market, people change roles more frequently than ever. According to recent global data, the average time spent in a job is around 2.5 years. Career moves are no longer seen as disloyal; they’re often a sign of growth, ambition, and self-awareness.
Let’s explore why job-leaving guilt is common — and why it shouldn’t stop you from taking a positive step forward.
1. “I Feel Like I’m Letting My Team Down”
This is one of the most common reasons people hesitate to move on. If you’re close with your team or know they’re understaffed, it can feel like you’re abandoning them.
Why You Shouldn’t Feel Guilty:
A strong team culture is built on mutual support — including support for your career growth. If you’ve been professional, given notice, and offered to help during the handover, you’ve done your part. Your departure may even open up an opportunity for someone else to grow.
Reframe It:
2. “I Feel Like I’m Disappointing My Manager”
Even if your manager has been supportive, you might fear their reaction — or worry they’ll take it personally.
Why You Shouldn’t Feel Guilty:
Good leaders understand that careers are fluid. If you've communicated clearly, respectfully, and provided adequate notice, you’re acting professionally. Your manager’s role is to support your development — even if that path leads you elsewhere.
Reframe It:
3. “What About My Clients?”
If you work in a client-facing role, it’s normal to feel attached to your clients or accounts. You may worry they’ll feel abandoned.
Why You Shouldn’t Feel Guilty:
Clients understand that professionals move on. The best thing you can do is help ensure a smooth transition — introduce your replacement, document important details, and offer support during your notice period.
Reframe It:
4. “Am I Giving Up Too Soon?”
If your role hasn’t worked out as expected, or you’re only a year in, you may fear that leaving too soon looks bad on your CV.
Why You Shouldn’t Feel Guilty:
In many cases, staying in the wrong role for too long is more damaging than a strategic move. If you’re changing roles with a clear purpose — whether it’s to gain new experience, improve your wellbeing, or align better with your values — that’s a responsible decision, not a rash one.
And if you're worried about how to explain your move to future employers? We’ve got interview prep tips to help with that.
Reframe It:
5. “What If I Regret It?”
Fear of the unknown can make even the most exciting opportunities feel daunting.
Why You Shouldn’t Feel Guilty:
Regret is usually linked to uncertainty — not the decision itself. If you’ve made your move based on thoughtful reflection, career goals, and personal needs, that’s a strong foundation. You can always keep in touch with your former employer or revisit the industry later — but forward momentum is important.
Reframe It:
Leaving a Job Is a Step Forward — Not a Step Back
There’s no denying that leaving a job can be emotional. But guilt shouldn’t be the reason you stay.
- You are allowed to prioritise your career growth.
- You are allowed to seek better alignment, purpose, or balance.
- You are allowed to leave — even if things are “fine.”
What matters most is that you leave professionally and respectfully. Communicate openly, prepare for your departure, and keep your network strong.
And if salary is part of your motivation to leave your job, here’s how to approach the expectations conversation with clarity.
Considering a Move? Talk to Mason Alexander
At Mason Alexander, we work with professionals across Technology, Life Sciences, Financial Services, and Legal who are navigating career moves just like yours.
Whether you’re actively job hunting or just exploring your options, we’re here to offer personalised advice and market insights — without pressure.
If a career move is on your mind, you might also find our guide on
mastering your next job interview helpful.
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