---
title: "Deciding whether to quit"
description: "Four steps at a true roadblock."
canonical: https://tomsharman.com/bookshelf/known/deciding-whether-to-quit/
updated: 2026-11-03
---

# Deciding whether to quit

> Four steps at a true roadblock.

Mark Schaefer's framework, from KNOWN, pp. 155 to 172.

Framework 18 of 19 from [KNOWN](https://tomsharman.com/bookshelf/known/index.md) by Mark Schaefer. Category: Lead generation.

## The steps

1. **Look at momentum.** Check whether positive things are still happening.
2. **Take a break.** Tell your audience you need time off.
3. **Talk to others.** Seek honest feedback with an open mind.
4. **Assess your grit.** Check love of the work, capacity to practise, purpose and hope.

## Where it comes from

From chapter: CHAPTER 10 Pivots and Grit, pp. 155–172

## The animation

24 seconds, 4:5, no sound.

- MP4: https://tomsharman-downloads-006143767029.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com/downloads/bookshelf/known/deciding-whether-to-quit.mp4
- MP4, dark: https://tomsharman-downloads-006143767029.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com/downloads/bookshelf/known/deciding-whether-to-quit-dark.mp4
- Still: https://tomsharman-downloads-006143767029.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com/downloads/bookshelf/known/deciding-whether-to-quit.png
- Still, dark: https://tomsharman-downloads-006143767029.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com/downloads/bookshelf/known/deciding-whether-to-quit-dark.png