Most conventional wisdom states that, when switching jobs, you should keep your current job until you have a new job offer. However, I find that I would really like to leave sooner rather than later, and enjoy (as I am under no financial pressure) a break between jobs.
Some of my reasons to leave early are as follows:
I'm finding it difficult to interview & technical screen and "put my best foot forward" in my job search process while I am still working at my current employer. In particular, some of my potential employers would require me to relocate (which I would be happy to do), but I find it awkward to take holiday hours to do an in person interview with them. (See also: Is it considered acceptable to take vacation time for job searching?).
Even if I am not able to find a job quickly, my field allows for contract / freelancing work, which I have entertained, since I prefer to be my own boss as well. (Future question: how do I transition from a salaried job to contract / freelancing work)
I would like to give my two weeks notice now, but most advice tells me to continue working. Despite this advice, my gut tells me that I should quit sooner. What are the key reasons to stay rather than leave now? What are some other potential benefits to leaving early?
(Similar: Why is quitting without having a new job lined up seen so negatively by employers?)