the termrevenge quitting(translated as “revenge resignation”) has gained prominence in the job market to describe an increasingly common phenomenon: when professionals resign impulsively, driven by frustration or resentment accumulated in the corporate environment.
According to Virgilio Marques dos Santos, a professional development specialist and founding partner of FM2S Educação e Consultoria (a startup based in Unicamp's Science and Technology Park), this type of decision is generally not motivated by a search for new opportunities, but by a desire to protest or “teach a lesson” to the company.
“While it may feel liberating at the moment, therevenge quittingIt is often an emotional and not a strategic reaction, which generates significant consequences for the professional’s career and financial stability”, he analyzes.
Exhaustion at work has been identified as one of the most common causes of this behavior. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), burnout is already recognized as an occupational phenomenon, which makes many professionals feel that abrupt exit is the only solution to their exhaustion. "This impulsive attitude, often linked to a disconnection from the company's values or even an idealization of 'large layoffs,' irreversibly harms one's career," explains the expert.
He emphasizes that the problem is not the frustration itself, which is legitimate, but the way it is managed. "Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space lies the power to choose the response," he quotes, referring to Viktor Frankl's thought. THErevenge quittingignores this space and results in hasty decisions that do not contribute to professional growth.
Although quitting a job may be a necessary decision in some cases, the specialist warns about the importance of a planned exit. "Sudden ruptures compromise the financial and professional future, especially in times of economic uncertainty," he/she/they states. He emphasizes that the way one leaves a job impacts relationships in the labor market.
"Before making definitive decisions, professionals need to reflect on what is really causing the discomfort. Often, the root of the problem is not the work itself, but specific situations that could possibly be resolved through dialogue," it continues. Thus, seeking an open conversation with leaders or colleagues leads to unexpected solutions, as well as demonstrating maturity and commitment. When departure is inevitable, planning is essential. Ensuring a safe transition, with another opportunity already aligned or financial reserves, helps to avoid regrets.
Furthermore, moments of dissatisfaction also prove to be valuable opportunities for self-development. "It's the ideal moment to seek new learnings, courses, or mentorships, broadening horizons for better opportunities in the future. Letting go of what no longer serves us is important, but the focus should be on the future we want to build, not on revenge," she reflects.
Finally, he quotes Daniel Goleman, author of “Emotional Intelligence“, to reinforce the importance of managing emotions. "Turning frustrations into growth levers and abandoning what no longer makes sense are mature and strategic attitudes, capable of opening new paths in your career. 2025 could be the year you turn adversity into opportunities, with focus and emotional intelligence to build a more promising future," he concludes.
