1Slavery may have been abolished years ago but you may not be aware that you yourself are one. If you are forced to work for another against your will, even with pay, then you are considered a slave.You may not be bound with physical chains but with the following thoughts that keep you in slavery:

• False hope of improvement in your status: You do not quit your job because you are still hoping that things could go better if you just hang on a few more months (or years?). You might have deluded yourself in thinking that a rolling stone gathers no moss so maybe, if you stay put, some benefits your boss is enjoying might rub on you. If he ever thought of that, you must be happy in your job now, but are you?

• False pride: You are more concerned with what your boss or colleagues would think of you if you give up your job. “A quitter never wins and a winner never quits” is concocted by losers to manipulate other losers into joining their rank of losers. Do not cling stubbornly to your pride and try to show the world you are not a quitter. It is your life and your future at stake so move on to a better life. Actually, life does not appreciate a proud but foolish loser.

• Quitting may affect your employability: But so will the impression of being a push-over and lacking ambition in life. Your chance of getting hired is greater if the company thinks they are getting a dynamic and motivated worker. You can always explain away satisfactorily the reasons for your numerous employments.

• You are afraid to lose a good income and perks your present company provides: Have you ever wondered why you enjoy such things? Simple, because your company is well aware that you are worth much more than what they give you. Do not be taken in by their “generous” gestures — they are running a business and they want to make sure that every penny they give you counts and more! Do not allow these perks shackle you from seeking better opportunity on your own, where ever tiny effort you exert comes back to you in full and not surrender much of it to your employer.

• You may fail on your own: Life may be full of risks and they are inevitable parts of living meaningful lives. Risks, when taken with1 the proper dose of precautions and careful study are manageable. Do not let the failures of others dictate your own life. Instead of being cowed by them, learn from the setbacks of others. Use them as free and effective lessons that can help you avoid the same pitfalls. Think of the opportunities and assistance available to you. You will not be alone. Seek the support of friends, family members, and qualified advisers to guide you.

• You have already invested a lot in your job: Perhaps so, but you may be investing much more if you stay in your miserable job. The earlier you call it quits, the sooner will you stop wasting more time, money, and emotions in exchange for a happier and more satisfying work condition. Also, how could you ever hope of getting a fair return from your investment in your job if your heart and mind are not in it?

• You love your family: The more reason for you to quit the job that leaves you tired, tense,and grouchy at the end of the day. Are you sure the money you bring home compensates for the peace and love your family is missing whenever you see them at the end of the day? How about the quality time you sacrifice when you work long hours in your job? Set your priorities right.

These thoughts that fill your mind may be the chains that enslave and shackle you to your present job. Cut them and free yourself to move on to a more satisfying job that can make you and your family happier. Stop wasting your time, money, emotions, and energy. Move now!