Is it reckless to walk away?

Dear Uncle Gary,

I’m stuck in a job that pays well but drains my soul. Is it reckless to walk away without a backup plan?

Signed, Reckless

Dear Reckless,

You're absolutely right, it’s not just reckless, it’s potentially self-sabotaging. In this economy, walking away without a plan isn’t a bold leap; it’s a blindfolded dive into shallow water. The job market’s unpredictable, and while soul-draining work can feel like a slow death, financial instability can hit harder and faster.

But here’s the nuance: staying doesn’t mean surrendering. It means strategizing. Use the paycheck as fuel, not a prison. Start laying the groundwork now, network, skill up, moonlight, and build your exit ramp brick by brick. The goal isn’t to escape, it’s to evolve.

And don’t let the paycheck trick you into thinking you’re stuck. Money’s important, but so is meaning. You’re allowed to want both.

You just have to be smart about the order in which you chase them.

So yes, keep your ducks in a row. But make sure they’re marching toward something better. Because staying in a draining job forever isn’t noble, it’s just quiet resignation. And you deserve more than that.

Best of luck, Uncle Gary