KintsugiBlack's journey

I've been working at a small business for ten years, and I've built a good relationship with the owners, especially one who has been supportive during tough times in my life. However, the company is struggling and has recently lost a major client, which has led to layoffs and pay cuts among the owners. I'm now the only employee left besides them, and I feel that there’s no opportunity for growth here. I'm contemplating looking for a new job, but I'm unsure when to inform my employer. I want to avoid burning bridges, especially since I value my reputation and the friendships I've formed. My wife is encouraging me to seek new opportunities, but I’m worried about how my current employer, particularly my friend, will react. I’ve been in a similar situation before where leaving led to strained relationships, and I want to handle this delicately. I've received some advice from others suggesting that I should wait until I have a new job offer before notifying my current employer. They mentioned that revealing my job search could lead to an uncomfortable work environment or even jeopardize my current position. I’m leaning towards keeping my search quiet until I secure something new, but it’s a tough decision given my long tenure and personal connections at the company.