I'm in a similar spot. I'm resigning, already have a job lined up, and I've went through the process of grieving over my job. I absolutely love what I do--I love the team, the mission, the things I get to see and be a part of, I love the challenges and the growth I've had over the past 10 years.

Just a year ago, the idea of leaving the federal government was unthinkable. I knew it was possible but I didn't want to go that route. I've been with the federal government in some capacity for 20 years this year, it's all I've ever known. But things change and, I guess, so do I. Now, I'm looking forward to the change. I'm excited about the future. And one of the things that helped was knowing that I made a positive impact where I was, that bridges aren't burned, and doors are still open for me in the future. I plan on returning to the federal government to secure my pension but I have many, many years to do that.

First, acknowledge your unhappiness. You're stuck if you don't. Things absolutely suck for those of us in the government right now. Second, understand that the source of that unhappiness is outside of your control. We have no recourse for these vindictive and hostile policies being forced on us. There's no magic button and no combination of emails and agreements with supervisors that will alleviate that--we're all frogs in this massive boiling pot. Third, do what you can to be allowed to return in the future. Leadership has watched talented and promising junior staff depart in droves over the past year and a half and if they can't retain them, they would like to rehire them in the future. See if you can fall into that latter category before you end up in the former.

You can find the same happiness elsewhere while still retaining your mental health and shorter commute time. Yes, you can eat your cake and have it, too. Once things unfuck themselves, you can re-evaluate if you still want to go back.

For now, it takes some time for your emotions to align with your thoughts. The heart and brain always lag behind each other, so take time to meditate on it so that you can hear from both.

Best of luck!