The conversation I just had was big indeed—slightly!

Only slightly because it wasn’t the really big conversation that I see on the horizon; the one on which I formally submit my resignation letter.

“I don’t see myself here long-term”

Those were precisely the words I used in the conversation I just had with my boss earlier today.

I approached her and stated that I would not be resigning quite yet, meaning I don’t have an exact date, but I will be at some point in the near future. I told her that it was nothing related to the job specifically, rather I’m at a point in my life where I want to take some time off of work to focus on my dissertation (and travel)…Didn’t tell her the last piece!

I wasn’t surprised at how understanding she was, given the way she’s treated me in the short time she’s been my boss. She heard me out, made me feel valid, and was fully supportive, even though she knows that having to search for someone to replace me is going to be a pain. 

For this, I am incredibly grateful – I understand not everyone will have a similar experience.

Utter Sense of Relief

Surely, I did not have to tell my boss this far in advance (roughly two months).

But I did so for several reasons: one, I wanted to be upfront with her about what I was feeling so she wasn’t blindsided. We have monthly check-ins and I felt if it would be disingenuous I told her everything was okay with no mention of at least some of what I was experiencing. W

The second reason is the sense of relief that it would bring me. Not that I can completely slack off on my job now, but the stakes are lower. She knows I’m leaving and because of that, I don’t think the stakes are as high. Now I can use that extra mental space and time to pursue other endeavors without feeling guilty.

The last reason is simply because this makes things real! Telling her this is happening puts some “teeth” on the plan. I already know it’s real—I have my flight to Buenos Aires and Airbnb booked!—but something about letting my boss know I would be leaving soon made it much more concrete. 

Elated and Grateful

I’m not just happy. I’m elated!

I walked away from the conversation feeling amazing and honestly don’t think it could have gone any better!

For all of this, I feel a deep sense of gratitude. I was supported by my boss, my plans are taking greater shape, and I’m beginning to carve this path for myself that I have such a good feeling about. Still don’t know exactly where it will lead, but the uncertainty is exactly what I’m most excited about.

Brave

I believe part of the reason why I have such a positive perception of this conversation is that I was brave enough to have it. I know people spend months and years trying to work up the courage to quit their job and often hold themselves back because of fear.

Trust me, that fear is real and valid.

But to push through it is incredibly empowering. And you’ll love yourself more because of it.

What would it look like for you to be brave, whatever that means for your specific situation?

Have you been contemplating quitting your job?

I challenge you to think about the worst thing that could happen if you do. This exercise comes up again and again in all that 

 I’m reading, and for good reason: putting to paper all your worst fears and negative imaginations allows you to see that, in reality, they’re not so bad. 

Having the (slightly) big, and eventually Big, conversation with your boss is all easier said than done. 

But start small and work your way up to that.

Who in your life can you tell about your plans? Whether it’s quitting your job to travel or changing career paths, who can you share some of your thoughts with that will make the ideas just a tad more real?

You can start with me….

Feel free to reach out on the “Get in Touch” tab at the top of the site, or write a comment below.

‘Till Next Time Travel Friends!