Resignation is one of the most under-discussed leadership topics. Why? Someday, at some point, more frequently than anyone will admit, every leader thinks about leaving—often with fantasies about going to an organization/church/team that's more _________ (fill in the blank).

Because people generally contemplate such change at times of high emotional volatility, few seek or receive objective input. Most who consider quitting seek support for their decision and for their rationale; they rarely seek unbiased wisdom, and few people offer it. After all, who wants to convince a friend to stay in a position when there's a chance it might make him or her miserable?

But that's not helpful. Sometimes resigning is a good idea, other times it isn't.

Distinguishing between those two requires some difficult self-introspection. As you work through this article, know that I:

A) Think about resigning, B) Usually decide to stay, C) Have made the decision to resign (more ...