Leaving a job is never easy. One keeps weighing the pros and cons before taking the final plunge. Even with a dream job in-hand, it becomes difficult to sever the cord one has formed with the organization and peers over the days one has spent there.

First and foremost, make sure that you have really decided to quit. Then, proceed with the following steps:
1. Be loyal to yourself. It doesn’t matter how much your employer or colleagues have done for you up to now, what matters is what you really want. No one is indispensable, really.
2. Provide 3 iron-clad reasons to quit. More than 3 reasons will only weaken your case and your stand.
3. Practice quitting. Practice with your friends, advisers or family so that you are able to convey the message sans emotions, firmly and with authority.
4. Manifest your reason to leave. Do something which conveys the message to your colleagues and management that you are on your way out. For example, exercise and sell all of your vested stock options, take your favorite knickknacks out of the office or give up your parking space.
5. Set up a time to speak to your boss. A one-on-one meeting is always better in such a scenario, but if it is not possible, then do it electronically. Draft and present your resignation letter with details such as date of resignation, your positive feelings about the organization and your willingness to ensure a smooth transition.
6. Go through the stages of acceptance. Once you have handed over the letter to your manager, give him time to absorb the content. Both of you may have to go through the stages of acceptance: shock, denial, pain, anger, bargaining, depression, and finally acceptance.

Stay calm through the entire process and depart on a positive note.

Adapted from Peter DiGiammarino‘s article How to leave a job you love and not get pulled back in.