Knowing when to quit comes with better understanding of our emotions and our needs. In the TED talk below, Sarah Weiner, a multi-entrepreneur, sheds light on the importance of quitting.
 

 

 

The psychology of quitting

A creative brain often tends to experiment with different choices in life. The right-brain oriented people try to innovate and reinvent themselves continuously.

On the other hand, the left-brained ones, who are more analytical and methodical in thinking, feel intimidated with change. They are afraid to try new things because they often associate themselves with their older identity.

 

When to quit or change your direction
Magesh suggests four points to consider that can help decide the right time to quit.

 

1. Are you justifying different spheres of life?

“A good life requires meeting several goals. But, if you are investing your entire time for one single goal with an inability to justify other goals, it should be a red flag for you,”she says.

 

2. Do you feel psychological stress followed by physical symptoms?

“It first starts with psychological symptoms such as persistent toxic stress, and lack of energy. These are followed by palpitations, sweating and mild body pains. Listen to your body keenly and check for these,” she adds.

 

3. What are you getting in return?

“You can put your effort in various forms—be it time, finances or hard work. If things don’t seem to reap any results or returns, it’s time to call it quits!” she says.

 

4. Having a balanced life equation?

“Imagine you have a joint bank account. How would you feel if you always deposit and have another nominee simply withdrawing! Vulnerable, right? Life presents us with situations where you keep on giving. At some point you may break down. So, quit when you feel that the other person or situation is withdrawing a lot from you.

 

So, what should you do?

1. Set boundaries.
2. Keep life in line with your priorities and goals.
3. Don’t ignore your intuition. It is a strong sign.
4. Meditate and think in peace to form a better understanding of yourself.
5. Take time and ask questions before taking up something new.
6. Look at the long-term picture rather than the short term.
7. Avoid getting too attached to anything. The longer you stay, the more trapped you feel.

 

 

3 Interesting Reads On Quitting
Are you all set and have made up your mind to try something new? But, looking for a dose of inspiration? These 3 books can give you more insights on why quitting is alright.

1. Mastering the Art of Quitting: Why It Matters in Life, Love, and Work (By Alan B. Bernstein)
2. The Dip: A Little Book That Teaches You When To Quit (By by Seth Godin)
3. Unhooked-How To Quit Anything (By Frederick Woolverton and Susan Shapiro)