
When It’s Okay to Quit (And When it’s Not)
Posted on: January 13,2025
The second Friday of January is often called Quitters Day—the day many people abandon their New Year’s resolutions. Last week, we talked about setting goals, and now we’re telling you it’s okay to quit? Well, maybe not quit—but adjust. For Marine Corps spouses, whose lives are already shaped by the unpredictability of military life, knowing when to quit or adjust a goal is crucial.
Here’s when it might be okay to quit or pivot:
- When the goal wasn’t the right fit: Maybe you committed to finishing a degree this year, but an unexpected PCS (Permanent Change of Station) derailed your plan. If the timing or circumstances don’t work, it’s okay to reassess and pursue something more achievable in your current environment.
- When systems need to come first: Let’s say you set a goal to start a side business, but you’re struggling to balance work, home, and deployments. Instead of giving up, focus on building systems like time management strategies or asking for support before diving into the business.
- When it compromises your well-being: If staying up late to study for a certification means you’re losing sleep and it’s affecting your health, it’s time to pause. Similarly, if working towards a financial goal is putting too much strain on your family budget, it might be time to pivot or extend your timeline.
- When the goal needs adjusting: Perhaps you planned to complete a fitness challenge but realized halfway through that your body needs a gentler approach. Adjusting the goal to focus on consistency rather than intensity is a win, not a failure.
- When priorities shift: A dual active-duty spouse might set a goal to train for a marathon but get tasked with additional duties. If mission requirements take precedence, it’s okay to delay or scale back. Flexibility is key in the military lifestyle.
When is it not okay to quit? Don’t give up because of a bad moment. Maybe you missed a workout because your spouse had duty or the kids were sick. Perhaps you didn’t get the job you wanted. These setbacks don’t mean the goal isn’t worth pursuing. Take a pause if needed—call it “taking a knee”—but keep moving forward when you’re ready.
Here are five books to help guide your journey:
- Atomic Habits by James Clear
- Grit by Angela Duckworth
- The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
- Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins
- Dare to Lead by Brené Brown
Marine Corps life is full of challenges, but it also builds resilience. Adjusting your goals doesn’t mean you’re quitting—it means you’re adapting. Keep striving, even when the path changes.
About the Author:

Marta Sullivan is a veteran and spouse of an active-duty Marine. She is passionate about programs and initiatives that support and promote the well-being, quality of life, professional development, and economic opportunity of military spouses, veterans, and their families. She currently serves as the Director of Engagement and Outreach at the Marine Corps Association.