We’ve all been there. A once-promising job that’s soured to the point where even the thought of waking up and driving to work leaves you shaking with cold sweats. Where it’s impossible to imagine working diligently at your desk for even one more day without exploding in rage at your incompetent and/or abusive boss.

If you’re lucky enough to find an exit strategy – whether to another position or to a temporary career break – it’s tempting to use your resignation as a chance to make your true feelings known to your coworkers, to HR and to your boss. But all the career advice out there recommends that you not burn bridges on your way out the door. Should you follow these recommendations or make a one-time exception to the rule in order to let of a little steam once you’re able to quit your job?

It’s easy to get fired, but quitting your job can be hard. No one wants to get fired, of course, but the process is laid out for you. All you need to do is follow it, happily or not. But when you decide to quit, for whatever reason, well, then things get a bit more complicated.

“Take this job and shove it!” is a great song, but not a recommended method for leaving your old work space. It might feel good, especially if your tenure there was problematic, but that’s short-term thinking. If you leave with a wake of negative feelings behind you, that experience might come back to haunt you. Whether your job was a great learning experience, or a black spot on your resume, leaving that position with class, grace and respect is the proper course of action.

Easier said than done, right? Even if you have the best intentions, it’s possible you’ll step on some toes on your way out the door. So, what can you do to exit without drama? Here are some pointers on how to quit your job professionally.

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