Leaving your day job doesn’t have to be stressful. It’s crucial to take your time while sharing the news and keep your emotions out of the discussions. Figuring out how to quit can be worrisome, though, especially if you have known your co-workers for a long time. The worst is when you feel bad and want to continue the relationship.

How to Quit Your Job Guide: Here are my best tips to make the departure as smooth as possible.

1. Never be negative. You never know when you might need someone’s help in the future. Who knows, they could be future clients or bosses!

2. People will be jealous. They won’t all be happy for you. They are stuck in a job and want to get out, too, and you are probably leaving them with a lot of work. Be sensitive to that.

3. If possible, have a how-to manual set up that can teach someone how to get up to speed doing your job quickly. Also, offer to train your replacement before you leave.

4. Two weeks notification is all that is required. You don’t need to extend it. Set a firm date for your last date. Don’t put it in your employer’s hands. Be firm. You are in control here. (It’s your life remember!)

5. Not everyone will stay in touch. I recommend letting things settle and reaching out a few months later and asking close co-workers to lunch.

[RELATED: How to transition to a new industry]

How to Handle the Conversation

Don’t feel guilty or like you need to explain yourself.  It’s not personal; it’s business. No matter how irreplaceable you think you are—your boss will find a new “you” to fill your role.

Prepare. But to take it a step further, write down (and practice!) a few talking points to start the conversation. Make sure you say thank you, but keep it short and sweet. Be honest, but say that it was a decision you had to make for yourself, not because of any negative reason. Act excited and unapologetic.

Silence is also golden. Wait for your boss to talk or ask for more. Here are some things you can say:

“I have recognized the need to move on with my career and have found a good next step.”

“I have an opportunity to move into …”

“I hope our paths cross again.”

“Thank you for the opportunities you have provided to me over the last 8 years.”

Did you quit your job? Let us know how it goes in the comments below?