Quitting my Job - 4 months later

It’s been four months since I quit my full-time job without another lined up. A bold move? Sure. A terrifying one? Heck yes. But now that I’ve had time to settle into this new phase of life, I’ve realized how much I’ve learned—not just about myself but the world around me.

At the time, I didn’t have a grand plan. I only knew two things: I was done with my 9-to-6 grind, and I’d eventually move to France. That’s it. No job, no mapped-out timeline. It was just a clue that something needed to change.

Fast forward to now, and here are some of the key lessons this journey has taught me:

1. The Fear Never Goes Away—But You Learn to Live With It
When I first left my job, I feared everything: how I’d pay the bills, what people would think, and how to fill my time. Truthfully, those fears didn’t disappear overnight. But I’ve learned that fear is a constant friend, whether you have a job or not. What changes is how you manage it.

Letting go of the illusion of stability has been liberating in its way. It’s helped me realize that uncertainty isn’t the enemy—it’s an opportunity to grow.

2. I Get Bored Easily, and That’s Okay
One thing I didn’t expect to learn? That I need variety to thrive. Having structure is great, but doing the same thing repeatedly isn’t for me. This break has helped me explore different ways of working and living that align with who I am.

From dabbling in latte art as a barista to painting a massive piece for my partner (that barely fit in my luggage!), I’ve discovered that creativity, not routine, keeps me engaged.

3. Time Is the Greatest Gift
Quitting gave me something I didn’t realize I was craving: time. Time to think, to breathe, to rediscover what I enjoy. Without the endless cycle of meetings and deadlines, I’ve been able to say yes to opportunities I never would have considered before.

Whether it’s mastering the intricacies of milk steaming or revisiting hobbies like painting, having the freedom to explore has been a game-changer.

4. Your Support System Matters More Than You Think
My parents were worried when I told them I was leaving my job. My friends? Some congratulated, others raised an eyebrow. My partner? Completely supportive. This mix of reactions reminded me of the importance of having people who believe in you—even if they don’t always understand your choices.

These people will ground you when things get tough and celebrate with you when they get better. I am lucky for them.

5. Success Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All
Walking away from a conventional career path has taught me that success doesn’t have to look like a high-paying job or a corner office. For me, success now means having the freedom to pursue things I’m passionate about, even if they don’t come with a fancy title or a fat paycheck. I only need enough to live.

Final Thoughts
Quitting my job without a backup plan wasn’t easy, and the journey has been anything but smooth. But four months in, I can say it’s been worth it. I’ve grown in ways I never expected and discovered a version of myself that feels more aligned with who I want to be.

If you’re considering a similar leap, here’s my advice:

• Trust yourself. You know what’s best for you, even if it feels scary.
• Be honest with your loved ones. They may not always agree, but their support will make all the difference.
• Embrace the unknown. It’s where you're forced to learn.

Sometimes, stepping away from what’s familiar is exactly what you need to move forward.