Hey there, my friend!
In the varied adventures of Juli doing stuff — around this time last year, I quit my job. No notice, no backup plan, and only two clients in my business. And here’s why I strongly advise my clients NOT to do the same.
1. “I Owe, I Owe, So Off to Work I Go.”
The reality of life in the U.S. is that most of us are in debt. A lot of it. Nearly half of U.S. households believe they’re just one or two paychecks away from losing their housing. A 2024 Bank of America report found that at least 20% of all U.S. households — regardless of income level — spend 90% or more of their income on necessities, relying on credit for emergencies.
I’ve been fortunate to live in a fully paid-for home and drive a paid-off car. My “stuff” may not be the newest or flashiest, but it’s mine — free and clear. If you have debt, do not quit your job.
2. “I Have a Family to Support.”
Providing for a family is expensive. And when you factor in extracurricular activities, trips, and unexpected costs, it can be very expensive.
As a single mom raising twins, I always kept at least one job. I limited them to one school-sponsored activity each, yet still found myself scrambling to cover trips and recital fees. Now that they’re grown and able to support themselves, I have more flexibility.
Many of my clients, however, have people who depend on them — children, partners, elderly parents. If that’s you, do not quit your job without a solid plan.
3. “I Need the Health Insurance.”
For many, health insurance, life insurance, and retirement benefits are tied to employment. Cornell’s Scheinman Institute reports that 100 million Americans — 1 in 3 adults — are burdened with medical debt. And that includes those with insurance.
Years ago, I took a job at Yale University because they covered 100% of health costs. My daughter had developmental challenges that required specialist care, and without that coverage, I wouldn’t have been able to afford her treatment. The urgent care and ER visits that come with parenting could have crushed me financially.
Now, my kids are grown and can get their own insurance. But if you rely on your job for healthcare, do not quit without a plan.
The Bottom Line: Don’t Quit Without a Safety Plan
Whether through AI consulting or coaching, I help my clients make their lives calmer, easier, and more sunshine-filled. Stressing over money and medical bills does the opposite. If your job feels unbearable, safety planning is always an option. Just don’t quit with no backup plan like I did.
I didn’t realize how much my own resignation affected me — until I rewatched the video.
For years, I followed intuitive nudges (or, let’s be honest, intuitive bops on the head) that didn’t always make sense at the time. Move nearly 1,000 miles away to rural South Carolina. Hold onto an old car even when I could afford a new one. Take this job. Leave that job.
Every choice — though seemingly random — was positioning me for freedom. I am grateful for the preparation. And for trusting the process.
If you’re feeling stuck but aren’t sure how to transition safely, I offer a free 30-minute guided meditation and safety planning session. Together, we’ll create a plan to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Juli Nixon 