Revenge Quitting in 2025: Why Your Exit Strategy Might Need a Reality Check

Are you among the many Americans believed to be harboring fantasies of dramatically quitting your job this year? If so, it appears 2025 has other plans. The big "revenge quitting" wave some were predicting hasn’t materialized, and career experts have some eye-opening insights for frustrated professionals. 

First, let’s get real about the job market. Despite widespread workplace frustration (engagement levels hit a shocking 10-year low in December), workers aren't actually jumping ship. Why? Because the job market isn’t conducive to job hopping like it was after the onset of COVID-19, also known as “The Great Reshuffling.” In other words, while it may feel easy to work up the nerve to quit, finding better work can be challenging in today’s economy.

Indeed Hiring Lab data shows job postings are slowly declining, and employers are hiring at rates near decade lows.

It’s no surprise nearly one-third of job seekers are experiencing serious career anxiety, but the tight job market doesn’t have to be a dead end—it could be a detour with hidden potential. That’s right: this is your moment to get strategic, not discouraged. 

Career Coach Karla Aljanabi advises job seekers to proactively create opportunities instead of passively waiting for them. Her strategy involves using this time to become irresistibly marketable. 

"Revenge quitting might feel satisfying in the moment, but it can put your career and finances at risk,” Aljanabi explains. “Instead of making a reactive decision, give yourself at least a month to plan a strategic exit. Build leverage by strengthening your skills, expanding your network, and exploring new opportunities while you're still employed. I always recommend securing a new role before resigning or, at a minimum, having four months of savings to support your transition. A well-planned exit puts you in control and sets you up for long-term success."

Melissa Doman, MA, an organizational psychologist, offers another powerful perspective: "When your current role isn't providing fulfillment, it's time to get intentional about creating purpose." Her advice? Don't sit and simmer. Doman points to the PERMA model developed by psychologist Martin Seligman. She suggests actively seeking meaning through positive emotions, meaningful relationships, and personal accomplishments, both inside and outside of work.

And if nothing else, remember this season of feeling stuck isn’t forever. Who holds power between employers and employees has appeared to be cyclical. It comes and goes, and when one side has it, they tend to see how far that power can stretch. This, in turn, means that when the pendulum shifts, there will likely be a large rebound.

💥 Are you experiencing career frustration? 🤔 How are you maintaining professional resilience? 💼

Let us know what you think in the comments. ✍️

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Networking Mistakes to Avoid

While the current job market remains challenging, you can position yourself strategically. Avoid common networking pitfalls and connect with professionals who can advocate for you in this competitive landscape.

Podcast hosts Gina and Jenn examine common networking missteps that could keep you from landing the job you want.

Other Stories You Might Have Missed

🧩 Hiring Challenges in 2025: The Growing Disconnect Between Employers and Job Seekers

🏝️➡️💼 From Paradise to Pressure: Dealing with Post-Vacation Blues

🎯 Skills-First Hiring: What It Is and Why It’s Important Now

How to Thrive in the Multigenerational Workplace

Hot tip: Indeed offers free live and on-demand webinars with job search advice through our Job Search Academy.

Register here for our April 17 webinar featuring advice from career and professional etiquette coaches for making a good impression and a positive impact in a multigenerational workplace.

Keep the Conversation Going

👋 That's all for this issue. Have you ever quit in a way you later regretted? Sound off in the comments. 📢

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