Best examples of resignation letters for personal reasons
Job-hopping has become a common trend in the workplace today. In 2022 alone, about 30% of Malaysians were reported to already be job-searching midway through the year. Though workers across all demographics job-hop, the trend is strongest amongst Millennials, who have come to be called the “job-hopping generation”.
This new group of employees value enrichment and learning more than tenure at a position. They are also willing to leverage the constantly evolving job market to achieve these goals. However, there can be many more reasons an individual leaves their job, ranging from new job prospects to personal circumstances. If you’re planning to leave, be candid with your employer about your circumstances to prevent misunderstandings.
(Read more: The Pros and Cons of Job-Hopping and How It Affects Your Career)
The most professional way to inform your employer that you intend to leave your job for personal reasons is by submitting a resignation letter. This is a formal document that informs your employer or supervisor about your decision to quit your post. The letter should include the employee's name, job title, resignation effective date, and a brief explanation of the personal reasons for resigning.
Read on for common personal reasons for resignations, as well as sample resignation letters to help you broach the topic with your employer.
- Reasons behind writing a resignation letter for personal reasons
- When to write a personal reason resignation letter
- Tips for writing a personal reason resignation letter
- How to format a personal reason resignation letter
- Common mistakes to avoid
- Resigation letter etiquette
- Things to consider before submitting the letter
- Examples of personal reason resignation letters
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Reasons behind writing a resignation letter for personal reasons
Health issues
Illness often prompts personal resignations. While companies may offer certain benefits such as Medical Leave or Hospitalisation Leave, sometimes the health issue may become too complex resulting in the employee resigning.
This may happen when their condition requires lengthy rest periods, treatment, or surgery not compatible with full-time work or their current job scope. Mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and stress can also significantly impact an employee's job performance. A break from work or resignation may be necessary for the employee to fully focus on treatment and recovery.
Family reasons
Childcare responsibilities. The employee might resign to take care of a child or children full-time, be it their own child, grandchild, relative, or ward. This could be due to insufficient affordable and accessible childcare service, or because the employee wishes to actively participate in the child's upbringing.
Elderly care responsibilities. The employee might resign to care for an ageing family member, such as a parent or grandparent, who requires full-time care and support.
Family emergencies. The employee may need to resign because of sudden family crises, such as serious illness or a family member’s death.
Pursuing further education
Employees might seek new skills and knowledge to perform better or explore new career paths. This is where pursuing further education, such as a Master's or Doctorate, may be necessary to advance in their career or to qualify for a higher-paying position. In some cases, a competitive job market may even require them to hold certain degrees or certifications in order to even be considered for a specific position.
In some situations, employers might offer flexible work arrangements, such as part-time or remote work, to retain their skilled and experienced employees while accommodating their education goals.
(Read more: 6 Steps to Build a Personal Development Plan for Career Success)
Relocation
One of the most common reasons why someone might resign is to relocate for a new job opportunity. For instance, an employee might get a new job offer in a different city or state that better aligns with their career goals or provides superior compensation and benefits. In these cases, resignation is necessary for a smooth transition to the new job.
Some employees might resign to relocate for other personal reasons, such as a desire to live in a different country or region, or to experience a new culture. Here, resignation becomes necessary to pursue one's personal interests and achieve work-life balance.
Personal growth and development
Resignation for personal growth and development is a decision many employees make at some point in their careers. It can motivate individuals to improve their skills, knowledge, and overall well-being.
Some might also resign for personal reasons, like pursuing a new hobby or interest, or focusing on personal relationships and family commitments. Resignation might be required to achieve work-life balance and to better prioritise personal and family responsibilities.
Burnout
Ever felt completely drained, physically and mentally, from chronic work stress? That's burnout, and it can seriously mess with your personal and professional life, possibly even pushing you towards resignation.
Here's a sobering fact: in early 2022, a whopping 58% of the Malaysian workforce reported burnout. It's not just a workplace issue; burnout can lead to serious health problems like heart disease, depression, and anxiety. Resigning might become a necessary step to bounce back from burnout and get the right treatment or support for related health issues.
Now, let's talk about tough stuff - ethical or moral conflicts at work. It happens when your values clash with your job or your employer's values. Resigning in such situations is no easy call, but sometimes, it's the only way to keep your integrity intact and stick to your moral principles.
And, it's not uncommon for some of you to resign because you feel your ethics or morals don't sync up with your employer or organization. Maybe the company's mission or culture just doesn't align with your values.
Retirement
Retirement is a common reason for resignation. It marks the point when individuals decide to end their career or professional activities, typically after reaching a specific age or financial security level. Retirement can be a positive decision for those who have worked for a long time and wish to pursue other interests, spend more time with family, or simply enjoy their golden years.
Some people choose to retire once they have achieved financial security and no longer need to work. This might be the result of sound financial planning or a pension or retirement plan providing sufficient income to live comfortably.
When to write a personal reason resignation letter
Timing is crucial when writing a personal reason resignation letter. Here are some guidelines on when to write one:
- Plan ahead. Planning is essential when considering resigning due to personal reasons. It gives both you and your employer adequate time as a common courtesy.
This includes allowing yourself sufficient time for decision-making and to prepare for the transition. You might want to discuss your situation with a trusted friend, family member, or mentor to get their feedback and support.
- Inform your employer promptly. Once you have decided to resign, you must notify your employer. The sooner you do so, the better. This enables your employer to begin planning for your departure and to arrange for a replacement if necessary.
- Choose the right moment. Pick a suitable time and place to deliver your resignation letter that respects both parties. Avoid handing in the letter during your employer’s busy or stressful times, such as in the middle of a major project or staff shortage. Choose a time when your employer can give your resignation the attention it warrants.
Tips for writing a personal reason resignation letter
Keep it concise. A resignation letter should be brief and straightforward. It must clearly state your intent to resign and provide a reason for your departure. Avoid being overly personal or emotional in your letter.
Be candid and direct. When writing a personal reason resignation letter, it is essential to be truthful and direct about your reasons for leaving. This helps your employer understand your decision and maintain a positive relationship with you (if you wish them to).
Express gratitude. Expressing gratitude to your employer and colleagues for the opportunities and experiences you’ve had is important. It helps you depart on good terms and maintain cordial future relationships.
Assist in transition. If possible, offer to help in the transition period by training your replacement or wrapping up any pending projects before you leave. This displays your commitment to a smooth transition and can help maintain a positive relationship with your employer.
Proofread and edit. Carefully proofread your resignation letter and correct any errors or mistakes before sending it. A well-written and error-free resignation letter can leave a positive impression on your employer and colleagues.
How to format a personal reason resignation letter
Use this handy checklist to prepare a well-structured and professional resignation letter:
- Header. Your letter should start with your contact information, including your name, address, phone number, and email address. Skip a line, then add the date.
- Employer's Information. Below the date, include your employer's contact details, including their name, title, company name, and address.
- Salutation. Begin your letter with a professional salutation such as "Dear [Employer's Name]," or "To Whom It May Concern."
- Opening Paragraph. In the opening paragraph, state your intention to resign and include your last work day. You can also express gratitude for the opportunities you’ve had while working for the company.
- Reason for Resignation. In the following paragraph, explain your reason for resigning. Be honest and direct, but keep it brief and professional.
- Closing Paragraph. Conclude your letter on a positive note, thanking your employer for the work opportunity and expressing appreciation for your colleagues. exit interview
Common mistakes to avoid
Here are common mistakes to avoid when drafting your formal resignation letter:
- Grammatical errors: Proofread your resignation letter to ensure it's free from grammatical errors. Mistakes in spelling, punctuation, or grammar can affect your professionalism.
- Being too vague or too specific: Avoid being too vague, or your current employer might get confused about your intentions. Being too specific lengthens your letter and makes it harder to read. So strike the right balance and keep the letter concise.
- Burning bridges: Maintain a respectful and positive tone throughout your resignation letter. Avoid venting frustrations, blaming others, or being overly critical of the company in your letter. This might hurt your future career prospects or references from your current employer.
Resignation letter etiquette
Here is some basic etiquette to follow when handling your resignation:
Informing colleagues and supervisors: As a sign of respect, inform your colleagues, managers, or team members personally about your decision to resign. This helps to maintain your professional relationships.
Saying goodbye to co-workers: Take the time to say goodbye to your co-workers. Express your appreciation for their support and collaboration either privately, during a farewell gathering, or through a thoughtful email.
Maintaining professionalism until the last day: Even after submitting your formal notification, maintain professionalism in your interactions until your last day. To leave a good impression, fulfil your responsibilities and document any outstanding tasks.
Things to consider before submitting the letter
- Gather the relevant documents: Compile the important documents or materials that you need to hand over to your manager. This includes project files, access to Google Docs, or any other relevant information that your replacement needs to know.
- Create a handover plan: Create a handover plan that outlines how you intend to transfer your responsibilities to your replacement or colleagues. This demonstrates your commitment to a seamless and pleasant transition.
- Prepare for a potential exit interview: Some workplaces organise an exit interview for employees when they leave. In this interview, they ask about your experiences, feedback, and suggestions. Approach the interview with professionalism and prepare to give constructive feedback.
Examples of personal reason resignation letters
Health-related resignation letter sample
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Employer's Name]
[Employer's Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to inform you of my resignation from my position as [Your Position] effective [Last Day of Work]. Unfortunately, I have been experiencing some serious health issues that necessitate my complete focus and medical care.
This decision wasn’t made lightly, but I have concluded that it is in my best interest to concentrate on my health and take the necessary time to recover. I cherished my time at [Company Name] and am grateful for the opportunities I have had.
I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition during my remaining time and will provide assistance in finding and training a suitable replacement. Please let me know how best I can facilitate this process.
I appreciate your understanding and support during this challenging time and am deeply thankful for everything you and the company have provided me. I look forward to hearing about your continued success.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Family reasons resignation letter sample
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Employer's Name]
[Employer's Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to tender my resignation from my position as [Your Position] at [Company Name], effective [Last Day of Work]. Regrettably, I must leave due to personal family circumstances that require my immediate and undivided attention.
Although it is difficult to leave a job and team that I truly enjoy, I believe it is essential for my family's well-being that I make them my primary focus. I remain committed to ensuring a smooth transition during my remaining time here and will provide assistance in finding and training a suitable replacement.
I appreciate your understanding and support during this complex time. Your mentorship and the team’s camaraderie have made my tenure here truly valuable, and I will remember my time at [Company Name] fondly..
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Pursuing further education resignation letter sample
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Employer's Name]
[Employer's Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to inform you of my resignation from my position as [Your Position] at [Company Name], effective [Last Day of Work]. I have been accepted into a [Programme Name] programme and have decided to further my education.
This decision was not an easy one to make, but I believe it is a necessary step for my personal and professional growth. My tenure at [Company name] has been instrumental in shaping my career, and I am grateful for the experience and knowledge I have gained here.
I remain committed to ensuring a smooth transition during my remaining time here and will provide assistance in finding and training a suitable replacement. Please let me know how I can best facilitate this process.
Thank you for your understanding and support. I appreciate all that you and the company have done for me, and I look forward to applying these experiences to my further studies.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Relocation resignation letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Employer's Name]
[Employer's Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to inform you of my resignation from my position as [Your Position] at [Company Name], effective [Last Day of Work]. I have accepted an opportunity in [Country/City/State] and will be relocating shortly.
While it is difficult to leave a team and company I appreciate so much, I believe this relocation is a necessary step for my personal and professional advancement. I will commit to making the transition as smooth as possible and will assist in finding and training a suitable replacement.
Thank you for your understanding and support during this transition. I am grateful for the opportunities and experience [Company Name] has provided me..
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Personal growth and development resignation letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Employer's Name]
[Employer's Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to inform you of my resignation from my position as [Your Position] at [Company Name], effective [Last Day of Work]. I have decided to take some time to focus on my personal growth and development, necessitating my departure from the current role.
I have greatly valued my time with [Company Name] and appreciate the experiences and knowledge I have gained. I believe that this decision is in my best interest at this time. Your guidance and the team’s support during my tenure have been invaluable.
I am committed to assisting in as smooth a transition as possible for everyone involved. Please let me know of any outstanding tasks or projects that I can help complete before my departure.
Thank you for your understanding, and I wish [Company Name] continued success in its future endeavours.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Burnout resignation letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Employer's Name]
[Employer's Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to tender my resignation from my position as [Your Position] at [Company Name], effective [Last Day of Work]. After careful thought and consideration, I have determined that my current state of burnout necessitates an immediate change.
My time at the company has been fulfilling, and I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that I have had during my tenure. Unfortunately, my current workload has become too much for me to manage effectively, and it has begun to impact my physical and mental health. I believe it is in my best interest to take some time off and focus on my recovery.
I want to thank you for your support and understanding during this difficult time. I am willing to assist in ensuring a smooth transition for my replacement. Please let me know how best I can facilitate this process.
Thank you again for the support and encouragement that you have provided throughout my time at the company.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Ethical or moral conflicts resignation letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Employer's Name]
[Employer's Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to formally resign from my position as [Your Position] at [Company Name], effective [Last Day of Work]. Regrettably, recent changes at the company have put me in a position where I feel I must choose between my job and my personal ethics. It has become increasingly clear to me that I cannot continue to work for the company in good conscience due to ethical or moral conflicts.
It is important to me that my personal values align with the company's values, and unfortunately, this is no longer the case. I cannot continue to support decisions or actions that go against my moral principles. I believe it is in both my and the company’s best interests that I resign from my position. Please understand that this decision has not been taken lightly, and it is with a heavy heart that I must leave.
I would like to thank you for the opportunities and experiences that I have gained during my time at the company. I respect [Company Name] and the team, and it has been a privilege to work alongside such talented and dedicated colleagues. In my remaining time here, I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition and am willing to assist in finding and training a replacement.
Please let me know if there are any final tasks or projects that you would like me to complete before my last day. I appreciate your understanding and respect my decision. I wish [Company Name] and all its employees the best in their future endeavours.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Retirement resignation letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Employer's Name]
[Employer's Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to inform you that I have decided to retire from my position as [Your Position] at [Company Name], effective [Last Day of Work]. This marks the close of a fulfilling career, and I am grateful for the opportunities, experiences, and relationships I have built during my tenure here.
Your guidance and support, along with the broader team’s, have made my time at the company a truly rewarding experience. I am proud of what we have achieved together, and I hope that my contributions have positively impacted the company.
In my remaining time here, I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition. I will be happy to assist in passing on my responsibilities to my successor and wrapping up any remaining projects.
Thank you again for the support and the opportunities that [Company Name] has provided me. I wish you and the entire team continued success in the future.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Conclusion
Writing a personal reason resignation letter can often be a difficult and emotional process. However, it is crucial to approach it with professionalism and respect. Ensure that your letter is clear, concise, and honest, while also expressing gratitude for the opportunities and experiences you’ve gained in your job.
By following the tips and samples provided, you can craft a well-written and respectful resignation letter that truly reflects your professionalism and commitment to your career.
Stay updated with our Career Advice page. You can also download JobStreet’s app, available on the App Store and Google Play, to stay one step ahead in your career progression.
FAQs
- What should I include in a personal reason resignation letter?
When writing a personal reason resignation letter, ensure that you include elements that clearly communicate your intentions while maintaining a respectful and professional tone:Reason for Resignation: Begin your letter by stating that you are resigning from your position and include the reason why you are leaving. While honesty is key, avoid going into extensive detail about personal or sensitive matters.
Gratitude: Thank your employer for the opportunity to work at the company and for any experience or skills you gained during your tenure.
Notice Period: Inform your employer of your last working day and offer a reasonable notice period, allowing for a smooth transition. Typically, two weeks' notice is standard, but it can vary depending on your contract and the circumstances of your resignation.
Assistance: Show your willingness to help with the transition by providing a plan to complete your work before you leave.
Contact Information. Share your contact information for further discussion if necessary.
Signature. Finally, sign your letter and include your typed name underneath.
- How much notice should I give when resigning for personal reasons?
When resigning for personal reasons, you should consider giving your employer a reasonable notice period to allow for a smooth transition.
In most cases, it is customary to give at least two weeks' notice when resigning from a job, but it can vary depending on your contract and the circumstances surrounding your resignation. This gives your employer enough time to make necessary arrangements for your replacement or to reassign your responsibilities to other employees.
If your role is high-level or your skills are specialised and hard to replace, consider providing a longer notice period.
- Should I explain my personal reasons for resigning in detail?
The level of detail you provide about your personal reasons for resigning in your resignation letter is up to your discretion. It is typically not necessary to provide a detailed explanation, and you can keep your reasons brief and professional.
You can say that you are resigning for personal reasons and provide a general explanation, such as "to pursue other opportunities" or "to focus on my health and well-being." If you feel comfortable, you can also provide additional context or details that you feel are relevant, such as a family situation or a medical issue.
However, your resignation letter should stay professional. Avoid too much personal information or negative comments about your employer or colleagues. The goal is to resign gracefully and maintain positive relationships.
- Should I speak to my employer before submitting a resignation letter?
It is usually a good idea to speak to your employer before submitting a resignation letter, particularly if you are on friendly terms with your manager or if you have been with the company for a long time. This helps prevent misunderstandings about your decision to resign and allows for a more detailed discussion about your reasons for leaving.
- How should I handle my remaining work responsibilities after resigning?
After resigning from your job, it is important to handle your remaining work responsibilities professionally and responsibly. Here are some tips for a smooth transition:Provide notice: Give your employer adequate notice of your resignation, as per your employment contract or company policy. This allows your employer time to find a replacement and ensures a smooth handover.
Complete outstanding work: Finish any outstanding projects or tasks to the best of your ability before your last day of work. This will help ensure a smooth transition and prevent any disruption to the company's operations.
Organise your work: Organise your work files and documents, so that they are easy for your successor to access and understand.
Provide clear instructions: Give clear and concise instructions on how to complete any ongoing projects or tasks, including any deadlines or requirements. This will help ensure that your successor can pick up where you left off and complete the work to the expected standards.
Maintain professionalism. Continue to work professionally and courteously with your colleagues and managers until your last day. This ensures you leave on good terms and maintain positive relationships.
- Can I rescind my resignation if I change my mind?
In most cases, it is possible to rescind your resignation if you change your mind. However, it depends on your employer's policies and the circumstances of your resignation.
If you have not yet left your job, it may be easier to rescind your resignation. Speak with your supervisor or HR representative as soon as you change your mind. Depending on the company policy, you may need to provide a formal rescission letter.
If you have already left your job, it may be more difficult to rescind your resignation. Your employer may have already filled your position or made other staffing changes that would make it difficult for them to rehire you. However, it's still worth contacting your former employer to discuss the possibility of returning.
- Should I mention my reasons for resigning in my exit interview?
Whether or not you should mention your reasons for resigning in your exit interview depends on your personal circumstances and relationship with your employer. Consider the following:
Legal implications: In some cases, sharing certain reasons for resigning may have legal implications. For example, if you experienced discrimination or harassment, consider speaking with an employment lawyer first.
Future employment: If you plan to use your employer as a reference or work in the same industry in the future, be careful about how you phrase your reasons for resigning. It's possible that negative feedback could harm your professional reputation.
Constructive feedback: An exit interview can be an opportunity to provide constructive feedback about areas for improvement. If there were issues that led to your resignation, providing your feedback could help the organisation.
Personal preferences: Ultimately, whether or not you share your reasons for resigning in an exit interview comes down to personal preference. If you feel that it's important to share your perspective, and you're comfortable doing so, you can do it. If you'd prefer to keep your reasons to yourself, that's also fine.
- How can I maintain a positive relationship with my employer and colleagues after resigning?
Maintaining a positive relationship with your employer and colleagues after resigning can be beneficial for your professional reputation and future career prospects. Here are some tips to help:Provide adequate notice: Give your employer and colleagues enough notice of your resignation. This helps them prepare for your departure, ensures a smooth transition, and demonstrates your professionalism.
Finish strong: Work hard and complete your outstanding tasks to the best of your ability before you leave. This shows commitment to your work until the end and leaves a positive impression.
Express gratitude: Thank your employer and colleagues for the opportunities and experiences you gained while working with them. This shows your appreciation for your time at the organisation and leaves a positive impression.
Offer assistance: Show willingness to help with the transition by training your replacement or providing guidance on ongoing projects. This demonstrates your commitment to the organisation’s continued success of the organisation and eases the transition for your colleagues.
Keep in touch: If you have positive relationships with your employer and colleagues, consider keeping in touch after you leave. Be friendly and show that you care. This can help you maintain professional connections and potentially benefit your future career prospects.
