Why Do People Quit? A Story of Transitions
Why Do People Quit? A Story of Transitions
Every new beginning feels full of promise. A new role, a new project, or a fresh environment often starts with enthusiasm. But underneath that excitement, a journey begins. One that quietly tests endurance, perspective, and belief.
At the heart of this journey is something called the transition curve. It unfolds in four stages. Everyone who starts something new will encounter them, whether they realize it or not.
Stage 1: Hopeful Ignorance
In the beginning, people feel excited. They’re optimistic and ready to take on challenges. But they don’t yet understand what those challenges really are. The horizon looks clear because the clouds haven’t formed yet.
Stage 2: Frustrated Awareness
As time passes, reality sets in. Problems become visible. Progress slows. What once felt easy now seems complex. Confidence dips. The enthusiasm fades, replaced by stress and self-doubt.
Stage 3: The Crisis Point
Then comes the hardest stage. An internal collapse. People start questioning themselves. “Am I good enough?” “Was this a mistake?” Some call it burnout, others a confidence crash. This is where many walk away.
Stage 4: Grounded Optimism
But for those who stay and push through the chaos, something changes. They start to see patterns. They understand what’s hard and why. With that clarity comes strength. They move forward not with naïve optimism but with resilience.
Surviving the Crisis
Those who survive the crisis don’t just endure. They adapt. A few practical strategies can make that possible:
Adopt an infinite mindset Not every journey has a finish line. The goal isn’t to win once. It’s to keep playing. Growth comes from staying in the game, even when it’s tough. (See The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek)
Move your body The first 10 minutes of a run can feel brutal. But the discomfort fades, and the rhythm returns. Exercise resets more than your muscles. It clears your thoughts.
Take breathers A walk, a quiet moment, a silly conversation. These aren’t just escapes. They are recovery tools. Minds need space to reboot just like machines.
The Real Lesson
Quitting isn’t always a failure. But leaving at the crisis point means walking away before the breakthrough. The real learning, the real growth, often lives on the other side of doubt.
Transitions are hard. With patience, perspective, and support, they become the forge where experience is made.