Leaving your job should not be done overnight.

1.  Make an exit plan: Consider talking to an experienced friend who can provide guidance. Write the steps that you need to take. Leave as a professional.

2. Clean up your online content: If you have Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and blogs, make sure your content does not create suspicious behaviors or promote any political affiliation. Employers will search for you.

3. Check your driving record: if you have any points, take some classes to remove them.

4. Check your credit score: if you have any debt collections, get them paid or make arrangements, to show that you are attempting to fix your financial problems.

5. Check your urine: If you’ve been using drugs, stop. Employers will drug test new candidates.

6. Get a background check: you may have an issue that you are not aware of.

7. Finish any training you have pending: Employers want to see that you are motivated to get better.

8. Get Certified: Complete any certifications that are needed for the new job: A+, MOS, CCNA, etc.

9. Resume: Make several resume styles and have them evaluated by friends and a professional.

10. References: Update your references, after your resumes are completed, distribute copies to your references and keep them updated.

11. Research your job and the company you will be applying to: Employers will ask you questions about Job specifics, the company, and its mission.

12. Get one or two months of income saved up: That means either you get a part-time job or start saving. If you have money saved up for retirement, like 401k, don’t use that.

13. Fix your relationships at work: This may take a while. They will always be haters, but leave with a clean slate and stay positive.

14. Leave on good terms: Train your successor and never talk bad about anybody. You don’t need to.

15. Get balanced: Your resume should reflect: Experience, Education, Certifications, and Motivation.