3 Things You Should Always Consider Before You Say 'I Quit'

While you might be "happy" in your current position, that doesn't always mean you haven't thought about what new opportunities are out there. In fact, according to a 2016 Med Rep Job Satisfaction Study, 72 percent of medical sales reps are happy at work, but 47 percent said they may leave for a new job this year.

If everyone is so happy, then what's the reason for this trend? Maybe you like the work environment and your colleagues, but not the work itself. Or maybe, you like the work and autonomy, but not the pay. Either way, you may be running circles in a rut. The only way out is to determine if it's the workplace or the work.

So, how do you know when it's time to quit your job?

Here are three questions to ask yourself when deciding whether or not you're in the right job and where to go from there:

1. How is your relationship with management?

Relationships between leadership and management often make employees want to run for the hills, no matter how much they enjoy their relationships with clients and colleagues. However, when positive relationships are initiated and nurtured by management, employees are more likely to enjoy their work and want to stay with a company.

According to new data released earlier this year by Virgin Pulse, nearly 60 percent of the more than 1,000 full-time employees surveyed said their relationship with their employer positively impacts their focus or productivity at work, and 44 percent said it positively impacts their stress levels.

The verdict: If you find yourself tense and miserable every time your boss passes by, it's likely you're not going to find happiness in your current work environment, and the stress may eventually impact your performance and satisfaction in your career. It's time to move on.

You would probably be happier with a new, but similar job that has a better reputation in management. If possible, look for opportunities in the same area or field to keep working with the same or similar clients. In the job search, be sure to focus on finding a work culture that fosters positive relationships between employees and leadership.

2. Do you feel like you still have freedom?

In the example from above, most medical sales reps appreciate the control they have over their schedule. While they are expected to accomplish a lot in a given day, they typically have the freedom to decide how they want to structure their days. The hours can still be long, though, and the travel can put a real strain on work-life balance.

Do you like having more control over your schedule, or would you prefer more predictable and available free time? It comes down to what you value most.

The verdict: If you value the control you have over your schedule, most field sales jobs will offer you this. However, if you're looking for a better balance of time, you may need to start looking for a new type of job altogether.

Compensation in field sales jobs is usually directly related to how hard (and how long) you work, and expectations are high. You may have to sacrifice some money and autonomy, but a new type of job could mean more free time and less stress.

In the job search, set reasonable expectations for finding a job with balance between control and free time. Keep what you value most in mind.

3. What's more important: money or purpose?

Medical sales reps value making a positive impact in their patients' lives, but they often feel like they deserve more money for their work. That job satisfaction study revealed that as salaries increased, job satisfaction also increased.

What is the biggest factor here: love of the job or the money? Or, can they go hand-in-hand? Some would argue they have to because love won't pay the bills.

The verdict: Before you make any drastic decisions, talk to your employer. Have an open conversation about compensation before you actively start looking for new job openings. That may be all it takes to keep you happy with your job and keep your career on track.

In fact, a survey of 71,000 employees by PayScale found that an open and honest discussion around pay was found to be more important than typical measures of employee engagement.

If this conversation is unsuccessful in raising your salary or helping you feel satisfied with your current pay, search for new job opportunities. While searching, focus on the mission and values of the company, and talk money early in the hiring process to be sure you balance your love for your job and financial needs.

Do your research, and prepare to have a range in mind for what you think is a reasonable starting salary. But, don't compromise your values, or you may find yourself back at square one.

Have you ever considered leaving a job you were happy at? What were your reasons, and what did you ultimately do? Leave your comments in the section below.