Almost everyone will have to transition between jobs at some point in their life. The real world is full of change and being prepared for professional transitions will make it much easier to get through them smoothly. Whether you are quitting a job or have been relieved from a position there are a few steps which you can take in advance to better prepare yourself for the transition.
One of the most helpful things to do is create a small savings fund that can be used in case of emergencies. This cushion will allow you to logically move through your transition without panicking about how you will pay your bills. Being able to live for at least a couple of months is the best way to prepare for a situation where you are let go from a job. This will allow you to calmly search for a new position and not have to settle for a less than desirable job in order to be able to afford to pay your bills on time.
It is a good idea not to burn any bridges at your current place of employment as you move forward to new opportunities. You never know when someone from an old employer will be able to help you out with a recommendation or a contact to add to your professional network. This is especially relevant for those who are quitting their current job. While searching for a new position it is best to keep the information to yourself before you have secured a new job. Once you have something lined up it is a good idea to provide your current employer with enough time to compensate for your impending absence. It is a common courtesy to provide two weeks notice before quitting your current position.
As you are transitioning try to focus on the positive aspects of both positions. It is very easy to focus on the negative parts of your current job that you will be happy to leave behind but this can easily cause problems that stem from a negative point of view. Whether it is your interactions with old co-workers and supervisors during an exit interview or interviews with new companies, focusing on the negative aspects of the workplace will create an impression that you would rather avoid while transitioning. Instead focus on the things you have to look forward to and any parts of your old job that you can look back on fondly. It will serve you better in the long run.