Telling your boss that you’re quitting to travel, as opposed to going to another company requires some unique wording. No matter what you think about your job, it’s a good idea to make sure you don’t burn any bridges when you let them know you’re leaving to travel.  If you word it correctly, it can be an easy and friendly transition for you and the company.

Below I have some essential tips and specific examples to make sure you and the company you work for are as happy as possible with your decision to travel.

▪   Attitude – Even if your boss doesn’t remember what you say, they will remember your attitude. Don’t quit when you’re angry.

▪   You want to show your professionalism, sincerity, and maturity.

▪   Even if you cant stand your boss and hate the company, do not show it when you leave your job. It could hurt your chances with other jobs in the future, and you never know where you may come across you boss in the future.

▪   Mindset! Honest, but not too honest – Whatever you say when leaving, tell the truth, but you don’t have to share everything. You don’t have an obligation to tell them where you’re going.

▪   Professionalism – When your being professional about your decision, they will have more respect for you.

▪   Show concern for the company and its well being. They can make it difficult for you if you don’t show concern and care.

▪   Check company policy and make sure they require a 2 weeks notice. Some companies require more. If it is two weeks, it typically a good idea to give them 3 weeks notice (more on this below).

▪   Don’t discuss with anyone at your job. Your boss should be the first to know (more on this below).

▪   A Letter of resignation is suggested. A short letter thanking them for everything and explaining that you are moving on.

Now, lets work on some specific examples. How to tell your boss your leaving to travel the world!

▪   Ask your boss for a one on one conversation/meeting. Make sure you schedule it when he/she is in a good mood. i.e. Friday afternoon as opposed to Monday morning.

▪   Make sure you are confident, but not arrogant. Be on the same level with your boss.

▪   Don’t get too scared.

Phrases to use in three steps:

Step 1. Announce you are leaving (you don’t have to be clever):

Boss: What would you like to discuss?

You:   “I wanted you to be the first person I tell the news to.” Look your boss in the eye and sit up strait and show sincerity. This will make them feel important (because they are).

Boss: Ok

You:   “I have made a decision to move on from the company to pursue my goal of traveling abroad” 

Or

“I’ve decided to peruse my own interest and passion for travel and at this point in my life it’s the best option for me”

Or

“I have come across an opportunity to travel that I cant afford to pass up” (This is the one I chose)

Step 2. Gauge their reaction and see what they say. They may ask:

Boss: Why?

You have already answered, but it’s a natural proceeding question. You will show gratitude with a slight sense of regret (wish i could stay, but cant). At this point you can elaborate with:

You:    “I feel its the best option for me in my life at this point, as it has been a goal of mine for some time and it will allow me to grow as a person.”

There are many ways to elaborate, but basically you want to make sure you don’t imply the company is the reason you’re leaving. It’s that you have found something that you love and want to pursue.

Step 3.

▪   Explain that you do enjoy your job, then:

You:   “Here’s my letter of resignation. It’s my two weeks resignation, but I’m happy to work that extra week to make sure the transition goes smoothly” (shows concern and respect).

Also, feel free to suggest people in the company that can take over your projects (if this applies). This shows you have given it some serious thought and concern for him directly as your projects are now going to fall upon your boss to delegate.

Don’t go off and tell all your coworkers after the meeting. Ask your boss if you should hold off from tell your coworkers that you’re leaving.

That wraps it up! If you follow these steps and tips for telling your boss that you are going to TRAVEL THE WORD (as everyone should!), you will be able to leave with a clear conscience and the ability to use them for a reverence in the future.

…AND you never had to use the word, “quit”!!!

The book that inspired me to take this plunge and help plan of my departure, is:

This was a life changer for me and I highly recommend it to everyone.