How to approach leaving job already?

[FizzyColaBottles7]

I started a new job in May. I’m really enjoying it and the team, the support etc is really good. I’m settling in really well.

My boyfriend has just received an offer linked to his sports apprenticeship, to play overseas for 6 months, from October. The opportunity looks INCREDIBLE. They have offered accommodation for him and a travelling partner, and my boyfriend has very excitedly asked me to go with him.

We’ve always wanted to travel in this area so it seems like a no-brainer. I just can’t say no to it - for me, saying no isn’t an option. I am seriously excited and think I need to grab this opportunity whilst we’re still young!

We’re like children all giddy when talking about it.

However, all I can think about is my job. I feel awful for them employing me, just for me to leave a few months later. I’d end up putting them in an awful position and even more understaffed than they already are. I have a caseload and have just started working through it.
I honestly don’t know how to tell them and I’m so worried about ripping that band aid off.
I’d love to work here on my return next year but I know this is a huge ask.

How do I approach this?

You can get another job, but not an opportunity like that. Absolutely go for it!

I'd go for it, like is too short.

If you love the job you can ask them if they'd consider unpaid leave/ allow you to reapply when you are back, but expec them to say no (esp given you've not been there long).

Just be totally honest with your manager! That you have an amazing opportunity and you love working there, but it's too good to miss.

A job is a job. When you look back in five years, you won't even remember handing your notice in. But you will remember your amazing six months!

Good luck!

I’m absolutely ready to go for it, I’m just feeling so nervous about it. I feel silly even worrying about everyone else when I should be thinking of myself!
I work in healthcare and have a caseload. I feel guilty when my manager is booking meetings etc in advance and I know I won’t be there.

I just don’t know how to word it!

You’re all right though, it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity

Life is too short, go for it, just be really honest with your manager and that way perhaps there may be an opportunity for you to come back or at least if something came up be considered for interview.

But take the opportunity!!

Ask for a sabbatical, so you can have a job when you get back. If you can gain experience, do additional training relevant to your job, do some research (especially into how your job works in a different setting) then all the better. You may find they can fill your job temporarily on a secondment basis.

Just tell them exactly that! Nobody would be mad at you for turning such an opportunity down.

Good luck, I'm very jealous!