Simply put: yep! Here are a few ways to ensure you're resigning for the right reasons.

Resigning from your first real job is not a decision to be made lightly, which is why you absolutely have to have to have to have to consider the short- and long-term consequences before making the decision. Just remember, you're not the only working professional that struggles with knowing when to resign from your job.

Internships are supposed to help you grow as a professional and team member. Quitting as an intern is a decision that needs to be well thought out and planned so that you will be able to do it professionally to best avoid burning any bridges behind you. Think about it, this is probably your first real-world job and you’ll have be extra careful that you’re better off afterwards - you still need great references.

Our first tip is: Don’t suffer in silence. Especially not for long periods at a time. It can be detrimental to both your sanity and your health. Take the time to assess the situation very carefully and then talk it over with a family member or friend. If there are other interns too, ask them if they share your feelings.

If you do decide to leave your internship make sure that you do so in a professional manner. First try to see things from the other perspective. It may change how you view the problem. If you’re convinced it’s really not you just being lazy or unreasonable, chat to your manager about your concerns. If you feel you’ve exhausted all other means of improving your situation, you may hand in your resignation if:

-       your personal values are being compromised;

-       you feel threatened or unsafe at your internship;

-       the company is involved in illegal practices or unethical behaviour;

-       you aren’t learning anything nor gaining valuable experience and they aren’t exposing you to your industry at all;

-       or you’ve got a better internship or job offer lined up.

If you are feeling uncomfortable with what is going on, it may be time to quit your internship. Maybe it is all in your head. Or maybe you really are in a crappy environment.

If the situation is compromising your safety or physical or mental health, then it’s best to let your supervisor know why you feel that you need to leave the internship immediately. Whatever you do, do not use any of exit strategies.

What would make you leave an internship? Let us know in the comments below.