‘I’ve worked 41 hours over three days at my Big 4 audit job, and now they want me to work Sundays as well. Should I resign without having another job lined up?’

Deciding whether to leave your job without securing another offer is a significant decision that requires thoughtful consideration of various factors. Here’s a detailed approach to help you weigh your options:
Assess Your Work-Life Balance: Working such long hours with the expectation of additional work on Sundays can severely impact your work-life balance. Reflect on whether the demands of this job align with your personal and professional goals. Consider how the quality of your life might change if you continue under such conditions.
Evaluate Job Satisfaction: Consider your overall satisfaction with your role at the Big 4 firm. Are there aspects of the job that you enjoy or opportunities that might resist the current pressures, such as future promotions or skills that would be beneficial in the long term?
Financial Stability: Assess your financial situation to determine if you can afford to leave without another job. This will depend on your savings, potential support from family or others, and any obligations you might have. A well-cushioned financial state would afford you more flexibility in making your decision.
Job Market Considerations: Reflect on the current job market and the demand for your skills. If your expertise is in high demand, your risk is lower, as you may find a new opportunity relatively quickly. Conversely, if opportunities are scarce or you’re looking to pivot industries, further caution may be necessary.
Impact on Career Path: Consider how this decision might influence your long-term career trajectory. Sometimes enduring a challenging position may eventually lead to more fulfilling roles, but this isn’t always the case. Evaluate whether the experience and contacts gained at your current job could be instrumental for your future career growth.
Seek a Temporary Balance: Before making your decision, you might explore the possibility of negotiating with your current employer for more manageable hours or additional support. Sometimes employers are open to changes but need to be prompted by their employees’ feedback.
Mental and Physical Health: Consider the impact of your job on your health. No job is worth jeopardizing your well-being over. If the stress and hours are taking a toll, it might be worth prioritizing your health over immediate job security.

Ultimately, while leaving without another job may be a risk, it might be a necessary step for your long-term happiness and well-being if the situation is unmanageable. Weighing these considerations carefully will help you to make a decision that best supports your personal and professional future.

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