I’ve always prided myself on doing my own thing, being a maverick. My self-perception isn’t totally delusional. I suppose what I don’t like acknowledging is that I’m very slow to change course. Even if something doesn’t seem to be working, I’m more likely to “give it more time” than I’m to cut bait. I suppose I’m always hoping that additional time would provide me with the wisdom, skills or insight to solve the problem. In the alternative the additional time may render the problem moot, so I don’t have to do anything.
I used to revel in the fact that I wasn’t a quitter, but as I’ve matured, I learned that sometimes the smartest thing that you can do is quit. I’ve stayed in relationships long past their expiration dates based on some misguided ideas about loyalty. I’ve also worked on projects that paid too little and demanded too much of my time and energy. I was afraid to turn down these soul draining endeavors because I was unclear when the next income opportunity would appear.
Generally it was fear that motivated my stick-to-it attitude. My prevailing thought usually was that if I tossed this guy or this gig another may not materialize and even if it did who’s to say it would be substantially better. So whether it was personal or professional, I often grew resentful when I felt that I was chained to an unhappy situation (despite the fact that I placed the shackles around my own feet).
Marketing guru, Seth Godin wrote an entire book on quitting called, The Dip. He says, “What really sets superstars apart from everyone else is the ability to escape dead ends quickly, while staying focused and motivated when it really counts.”
So following up on Tricia’s question, I gave myself permission to end a project. Financially this project was a loser and the subject matter did not fit into my current professional portfolio. I did feel compelled to slog on for a variety of reasons that had little to do with my own interests or needs. I’ve made my decision and I’m sure the other parties will not be pleased. I can live with that especially since I am sure they’ll find another writer who will love the work.
I don’t quite feel relieved, but I think that this is simply another small step toward creating a work and a personal life that is authentic. Happiness is a journey. Part of that quest involves trusting your own instincts and your own ability to do better next time.
So when do you quit? When something feels bad and improving the situation is damn near impossible.
