7 Tips for Writing a Personal Reason Resignation Letter 2023

Have you finally decided to leave your current job to seek greener pastures? You may be changing careers or looking for a new post that lets you manage stress better. Whatever your motivation, writing and submitting a personal reason resignation letter can provide closure and formally kick off a new phase in your professional journey.

A personal resignation letter is a formal way of saying you want to leave your job for personal reasons. These reasons could be family stuff, moving to a new place, health issues, or other things that make it hard to keep doing your job. It could also be because you found a better job. 

Crafting a well-written resignation letter is a skill worth mastering as you embark on a new chapter in your career. It serves as a formal communication to your employer, reflecting your professionalism and ensuring a smooth transition. 

According to JobStreet's Decoding the Digital Challenge report, 73% of digital workers are eager job changers, seeing themselves in a different company every two or three years. Why? Businesses are fast-tracking innovation and automation, causing tech workers to be constantly in demand and have strong negotiation power.

In this guide, we will discuss the art of writing a good resignation letter. We will also be providing expert tips, compelling examples, and invaluable etiquette advice.

• Reasons for Writing a Resignation Letter
• When to write a personal reason resignation letter
• 7 Tips for Writing a Personal Reason Resignation Letter
• How to format a resignation letter due to personal reasons
• What to say in a resignation letter: Dos and don'ts
• Examples of resignation letters for personal reasons
• Tips for handing in a resignation letter
• Conclusion
• FAQs

Reasons for Writing a Resignation Letter

The JobStreet report also states that aside from career advancement, almost 50% of digital workers resign to look for new challenges, while 36% feel underappreciated at work. According to the Future of Recruitment report, work-life balance is a priority consideration for 69% of employees. All these makeup personal reasons that can push workers to leave their jobs. Here are other possible causes:

Health issues

If your health problems are compromising your job performance, you must resign so you can focus on your well-being and seek medical intervention. On the other hand, your job may be the main culprit for your health issues. In this situation, it's reasonable for you to let go of your role to protect your overall health, including mental wellness.

Family reasons

Family plays an essential role in our lives as Filipinos. Family issues may require your physical presence, time, and attention to resolve. Examples of family matters that may push you to resign are attending to the needs of a sick loved one, the need to spend more time with family, and caring for a newborn. 

Personal growth and development

If you value constant growth and development in your professional life, and your current job isn't offering such opportunities, you may feel the need to resign. Or you're leaving because you've found another prospect that aligns better with your career goals. Exploring other options can boost your skills and knowledge, resulting in personal and professional satisfaction.

Relocation

Moving to a new place can be stressful, leading to major adjustments. Leaving behind a familiar routine and environment, moving your belongings, and finding a new house can eat into your time and energy, which may impact your work. Also, relocating may require finding a new job with better proximity.

Burnout

If you've already taken proactive steps to address work burnout and it persists, resigning can give you the much-needed time and opportunity to focus on your health. Burnouts involve emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion that can lead to multiple health issues. These also impact your professional relationships and how you function in the workplace.

Other personal reasons are pursuing higher education, ethical and moral conflicts, retirement, etc.

When to write a personal reason resignation letter

There is a suitable time for writing your resignation letter. But first, you must address it to the proper person–typically your direct supervisor or manager–and CC the HR manager and relevant superiors. If you need to know to whom to address your letter, consult your HR manager or company handbook. 

To know when to hand over your resignation letter, follow these tips:

Consider the timing

You're probably raring to leave your job, but if you want to maintain good relations with your boss and colleagues, you should only go after you've finished your deliverables. If your company has seasonal work, like a food business that's extra busy during the holidays, consider postponing your resignation to a later date. Your manager will surely appreciate your thoughtfulness in delaying the submission, making it easier for them to handle your departure. 

Also, think about how your resignation can impact your current situation. You may anticipate a considerable expense soon, which tells you that now may not be a good time to resign. Or you need more time to look for a job replacement. Whatever your circumstances, you may need to wait some time until you are ready to quit.

Give a proper notice period

Article 285 of the Philippine Labor Code states, "An employee may terminate without just cause the employee-employer relationship by serving a written notice on the employer at least one (1) month in advance." You can be liable for damages if you fail to notify your employer at least 30 days before leaving the company. However, the Labor Code also says that you don't have to give a resignation letter to leave if you:

• Received serious insults from your employer or their representative
• Experienced inhumane and unbearable treatment from your employer or their representative
• You or your family are victims of crime or offense committed by your employer or their representative
• Other causes similar to the above

Finish work responsibilities before leaving

Highlight your professionalism and show respect for the company by completing all your pending tasks before quitting. This way, your manager and colleagues have time to make adjustments, ensuring a smooth transition. Leaving while on good terms with your boss also reflects positively on you, especially in the eyes of your future employer. You can even ask your boss for a recommendation letter or list them as a reference for upcoming job offers. Accomplishing your work obligations also ensures that you keep your end of the employee contract, protecting you from legal complications.

7 Tips for Writing a Personal Reason Resignation Letter

Writing an effective resignation letter involves strong written communication skills. Ensure that your message, including your intention and reasons for departure, is clear, leaving no room for misinterpretation. Remember that your resignation  letter will be kept on file, so exert effort in crafting it to leave a good last impression on your employer. Here are more pointers to help you write a strong resignation letter:

1. Keep it brief and professional

Avoid winding explanations and unimportant details in your letter. Keep it down to a page, outlining critical information like your reason for leaving and your last day at work. Write concisely, with brief sentences that are direct to the point. Before submitting your letter, check it several times for typos and errors. All these steps highlight your professionalism and respect for your employer.

2. Provide context without oversharing

Your manager and workmates need to understand why you're leaving. But keep your explanation brief by editing out personal or sensitive details. Avoid injecting too much emotion in your personal resignation letter; stick to the facts by stating your reason for resigning. Another way to do this is by focusing on the future; say how your resignation will fulfill your personal and professional plans.

3. Express gratitude

Including a thank-you statement displays your appreciation for the opportunities given by the company. Acknowledging the organization's support and guidance is a powerful part of your professional achievements. You can also relay your gratitude to your boss and colleagues. These steps allow you to maintain positive connections with the company, which boosts your reputation and marketability.

4. Offer to help with the transition

Show your reliability by offering to do your part in smoothly transferring your tasks and responsibilities. Be specific about how you want to help–mentoring your replacement, collating notes, or organizing files for a more straightforward handover. You can even ask your manager for their specific needs, so you can best contribute to the transition. Inform them when you're free to help them, so they can schedule this process based on your availability.

5. Avoid negativity or criticism

“Never burn bridges” is a wise piece of advice you can follow by writing your resignation letter on a positive note. This helps you improve your professional reputation while maintaining healthy relationships with former co-workers and superiors. Keep your resignation letter friendly; only state necessary details and avoid subjective comments. If incidents urge you to resign, keep them off the page; you don't want your harsh words to be included in your employment file.

6. Use a respectful and polite tone

Keep your tone respectful and professional from the start until the finish. Begin with a polite salutation using your superior's complete name and position. Demonstrate your sincerity in all your letter's parts–in conveying your gratitude, reason for resignation, and positive outlook for the future. Close your message with a polite statement, wishing your company and teammates well.

7. Suggest a solution

Are you willing to stay in the company if you and your employer can settle on a mutually-beneficial arrangement? If so, you can negotiate a scheme that lets you continue working for the organization while addressing your reason for leaving. After identifying this issue, state your recommendation by giving specific details on implementation and its possible benefits. This way, you show genuine concern for and commitment to the company.

How to format a resignation letter due to personal reasons

Turning in a properly formatted resignation letter emphasizes your attention to detail and respect for your employer's time. A well-crafted letter is easy to read and understand, showing that you took the time to organize your thoughts and present them clearly and concisely. Ensure that your letter includes these elements:

• Date and contact information
• Salutation and opening paragraph
• Main body paragraph(s)
• Closing paragraph and next steps
• Closing salutation and signature

What to say in a resignation letter: Dos and don'ts

Elevate your resignation letter by following these fundamental dos and avoiding critical don'ts:

Dos:

• Be professional, concise, and positive in your language and tone.
• Communicate your intentions. Include your departure date and willingness to assist with the transition.
• Customize your letter to suit your specific circumstances. Remember to maintain a respectful tone throughout.
• Proofread your letter for grammatical accuracy and coherence.Examples of resignation letters for personal reasons

Don'ts:

• Avoid being negative, emotional, or critical in your resignation letter.
• Refrain from including unnecessary details or overly specific reasons for leaving.
• Do not burn bridges or jeopardize future references by being disrespectful or unprofessional.

Examples of resignation letters for personal reasons

Don't know how to start penning a professional yet sincere resignation letter? Browse through our sample letters to learn how.

Sample #1: Due to family reasons

Juana dela Cruz

8 Bughaw Street

Quezon City, 0001

[email protected]

[Date]

Mr. Erik Villarama

Marketing Head

Great Company, Inc.

Paco, Manilla

Dear Mr. Mabini,

I am writing to inform you of my resignation from my post as Marketing Assistant at Great Company, Inc., effective [date].

Due to a family emergency, I must devote more time and attention to my responsibilities at home. This is why I must step down from my position.

I want to express my gratitude for the opportunities the company has given me in the past two years. My superiors' guidance and my colleagues' support have allowed me to consistently meet my monthly targets while letting the marketing team increase the company's revenue. I am proud of the work that we have accomplished together.

To ensure a smooth transition before I leave, I am happy to assist in training my replacement anytime in the next two weeks. Please let me know how I can best help the company with the resignation process to prepare for my departure.

Thank you again for the opportunity to work at Great Company, Inc. I will cherish the memories and experiences I gained here.

Sincerely,

Juana de la Cruz

Sample #2: Due to burnout

Juana dela Cruz

8 Bughaw Street

Quezon City, 0001

[email protected]

[Date]

Mr. Erik Villarama

Marketing Head

Great Company, Inc.

Paco, Manilla

Dear Mr. Mabini,

After much deliberation, I have decided to tender my resignation as Marketing Assistant at Great Company, Inc., effective [date].

Over the past few months, my stress and exhaustion levels have increased, making me unfocused and unmotivated at work. Because of burnout, my physical and mental health have been compromised. I have tried my best to manage my symptoms to function at my best, but my hospital confinement two weeks ago has made it clear that I need to step down and focus on my well-being.

Working in this company has given me opportunities for career growth, collaboration, increased knowledge, and valuable friendships. I am grateful for my managers and co-workers who have made my stay fruitful and productive. 

I'm prepared to make this transition smooth by transferring my responsibilities to other team members, but please let me know how else I can best help you.

It has been an honor working for Great Company, Inc. I wish the company and all its members well in the future.

Sincerely,

Juana de la Cruz

Sample #3: Due to retirement

Erik Villarama

1 Luntian Street

Quezon City, 0001

[email protected]

[Date]

Ms. Rachel Dario

Chief Marketing Officer

Great Company, Inc.

Dear Ms. Dario,

I am writing to inform you of my intention to retire from my position as Marketing Head at Great Company, Inc., effective [date].

Working in your team for the past eight years has been a privilege, but now, it is time for me to move on to the next chapter of my life. I will forever cherish my achievements and experiences working with such talented and dedicated employees, which have made my stay productive and memorable.

I want to express my sincere gratitude to you, my colleagues, and team members who have inspired me to do my best. The lessons I have learned at Great Company, Inc. will always have a special place in my heart.

As I transition into retirement, I'd be glad to set a schedule to prepare my replacement for future responsibilities. 

Thank you for the opportunity to be part of your team. I wish you and the company continued success.

Sincerely,

Erik Villarama

Tips for handing in a resignation letter

Knowing when and how to deliver your letter is just as crucial now that you know how to write a simple resignation letter from start to end. Consider the following tips for a successful transition:

• Determine the appropriate time to give your notice. Tip: Base this on your employment contract and the company's needs.
• Provide the recommended notice period. It ranges between two weeks to a month, to allow for a smooth transition.
• Choose the right time and place to have a conversation with your supervisor. This helps in ensuring clarity and understanding.
• Be prepared for potential reactions. Through it all, maintain professionalism and grace in handling any negative responses.

Conclusion

Submitting a resignation letter is not a mere requirement; it is a formal way to close your employment and a reflection of your professionalism. With a thoughtfully penned letter, you can vacate your position on a positive note, letting you leave fond memories and a favorable impression of yourself. It also encourages a stress-free handover, which you and your employer benefit from. By keeping your resignation letter concise, clear, and respectful, you maintain and boost your reputation, preparing yourself for future career opportunities.

All set to write an impactful resignation letter? Ensure you have a job replacement waiting in the wings by exploring JobStreet or downloading the JobStreet app on Google Play or the App Store to create or update your profile. #SEEKBetter jobs by using our Career Tools and visiting our Career Advice page. 

FAQs

1. Should I explain my personal reasons for resigning in detail?
   ⁠No, you don't have to. You can state your specific personal reason for resigning without going into details. Still, you must provide ample context for your manager to understand why you're leaving your job. Remember to keep your letter positive; avoid criticizing the company, boss, or co-worker. Doing so will put you in a bad light, tarnishing your reputation.
   ⁠
2. Should I speak to my employer before submitting a formal resignation letter?
   ⁠Yes, it's recommended that you speak to your direct supervisor before submitting your resignation. This prepares them for your departure and lets you personally explain your intention. This way, your manager can ask questions to understand better why you are leaving. When you let your boss know about your decision beforehand, you prevent misunderstandings that may result from you handing over your letter without any warning.
   ⁠
3. How should I handle my remaining work responsibilities after resigning?
   ⁠Set a schedule that will allow you to complete your remaining tasks before you leave. Share this workflow with your boss so they know about your deadlines and level of commitment. This ensures that everyone is on the same page about your pending responsibilities. To help you finish your duties on time, prioritize them according to urgency and importance.
   ⁠
4. Can I rescind my resignation if I change my mind?
   ⁠Yes, it is possible, but you must quickly inform your boss about your change of heart. Also, remember that their decision may depend on your contract and company policies, making it challenging for you to resume your position. This is why it's essential to spend time on self-reflection before resigning. Rescinding your resignation may indicate a lack of self-awareness and decision-making skills.
   ⁠
5. How can I maintain a positive relationship with my employer and colleagues after resigning?
   ⁠Being considerate of your boss and colleagues is always an excellent strategy to maintain good ties with them. Imagine the impact of your resignation–which tasks will you leave behind? What can you do to help your team adjust to your departure? When you give enough notice, write a professional resignation letter, and assist in the transition, you show others that you are responsible and mindful of your actions. This lets you leave on good terms, leaving a positive impression on your workmates.