Its not always about whether your direct boss wants you gone. I've seen the decision made from higher up in the org and/or HR based primarily (if not entirely)

Its not always about whether your direct boss wants you gone. I've seen the decision made from higher up in the org and/or HR based primarily (if not entirely) on compensation. The company needs you gone either because they want to backfill with a lower salaried hire, or you are in line for a large stock vestment.