Tips for Dropping Out of Cubicle Nation

You've had enough of working in a cubicle. You have a dream career in mind, and taking customer service calls for a department store is in no way part of said dream. By all means, work on finding a way to fulfill your dream. But before you do, here are some tips on the right way to leave your job (and Cubicle Nation) behind.

Have a Plan

As tempting as it may be to quit your job on a whim, I advise against such quick action. You need to have a plan before you clear all the Polaroids and action figures from your cubicle. Don't just have an idea of what you'd like to do when you leave your job. Outline your next steps first, whether they are to start your own business, find a job in an industry you care about, or (if you've won the lottery) go whale-watching in Cancun. Lack of planning will leave you feeling lost when the exhilaration of leaving your job wears off. The cubicle may feel like a prison, but its evils are consistent. The same annoying coworkers, tedious reports, and pointless meetings will always exist. Take advantage of this consistency (you're already used to it) while you decide exactly what you will do when you leave your job.

Save Your Pennies

This step goes hand-in-hand with having a plan. It should be taken before you quit your job, if at all possible. Despite your high hopes for the laundromat/tea room you plan to build, you need to have some money to pay the bills while you're getting the business off the ground. Ideally, you should save six months worth of rent/mortgage, bills, and living expenses before you leave Cubicle Nation behind. This safety net will prevent your having to do the "Do I pay my phone bill or buy groceries" dance.

Be Nice

There is someone you'd love to tell off before you quit your job. It might be your boss, or a co-worker that snaps her gum incessantly, or the mail room guy that invites you to church every time he drops off your mail. As much as you'd like to give him a piece of your mind, don't. A few seconds' catharsis is not worth the contacts you will lose. Your boss may be able to help you promote your new business venture. The gum-snapper may know someone that could become a client. The church guy might know a lot about the field where you'll start your new career. Burning bridges will only hurt you.

Also important is giving your cubicle job's management as much notice of your leaving as they require to be on good terms. If times get tight, you may need to pick up part-time work. Your old company may be a place you can pick up a few hours.

Kill Your Television

Your television is a huge time-sapper. You may not think so now, but when you leave your cubicle job, you're going to have a lot more time on your hands. You should be using that time to implement your plan. The television, as well as the internet, your friends and family, and that great book you're reading, will seem to be conspiring against the successful realization of your career dreams. Unplug the TV. Disconnect the internet (unless your new business venture is internet-based). Explain to your friends and family that you need a certain amount of time to work each day, even if you are at home. Your time is precious. It is the key to your mental and monetary feeling of success.

Wear Pants

When you leave your cubicle job, especially in the early stages of your new career, you may be tempted to "take it easy." You'll want to take lots of breaks. You may think doing your work in the St. Patrick's Day boxers you got in college is acceptable. Resist these urges. Lots of breaks will take away from your precious time. Wear your work clothes. They may not be as comfortable as your undies, but they will add a feeling of professionalism to your work, giving you more incentive to complete your appointed tasks.