[hn_throwaway_99]

I think the takeaway, though, is that being too cautious is dangerous, too, because there is so much upside to leaving a job you don't like.

Lesson I've certainly learned: No need to burn bridges, but waiting for the "perfect time" to leave a tech job (e.g. all projects wrapped up, other job fully lined up, etc.) is a futile exercise. Just be considerate with 2 weeks notice, say you want to explore other opportunities or whatever, and move on.