This week a client told me a story that’s all too familiar.
The first time they had a terrible boss they stuck it out for over two years. They kept telling themselves:
- It’ll get better.
- I just need to work harder.
- Maybe I’m overreacting.
But they weren’t. They were miserable. Eventually, they hit their breaking point and left.
The next time? It took about a year before they realised the same thing was happening again. A little faster, but still too long.
Now? They give it six months—tops. Sometimes less, if it’s really bad. Because they’ve learned that waiting and hoping doesn’t change anything.
How Do You Know When It’s Time to Move On?
It’s not always obvious at first. Some managers are bad from day one. Others start off okay, but then things shift. A restructure. A new leadership team. Projects that never materialise.
Here’s what my client learned to watch out for:
- The shifting goalposts. Expectations are unclear, and you’re constantly second-guessing what’s expected.
- The dangle of false hope.“There’s a big opportunity coming for you!” But it never happens.
- The manager who’s just as stuck as you. They might want to help, but they can’t. The real problem is higher up.
- The waiting game.“We’re just waiting on senior management to decide.” And waiting. And waiting…
- The energy drain. You wake up dreading work, but you tell yourself just a little longer…
If you see these signs, it’s time to stop waiting and start making a plan.
The 6-Month Rule
My client now has a simple rule: give it six months.
- First, have the conversation. If there’s a chance to fix things, give it a shot.
- Then, set the clock. Six months. No improvement? Move on.
- And watch out for the bait. If promises keep getting pushed back, that’s your answer.
This isn’t about making rash decisions—it’s about protecting your time, energy, and career.
What’s the Cost of Staying?
Bad managers, toxic workplaces, and endless uncertainty take their toll. You lose confidence. Motivation. Time. And sometimes, by the time you leave, you’re so drained that it takes months to recover.
That’s why my client now acts faster. Because life’s too short to wait around, hoping things will change.
So, what about you? How long is too long?
Photo by Mike
