Should I talk to him about it and find something that works for both of us and the put it in writing and have us both sign it, just so that I'm covered?

Absolutely. That's the best way to do it.

If he refuses to sign anything, send him a letter saying that this is a confirmation the two of you have agreed to a mutual termination of the lease.

You never answered where this is. The landlord may or may not have the right to terminate the lease early to retake possession. Though the odds are he does.

I agree with Lisa, you try to work it out, but if you can't, then you give him 30 days written notice. If he does come after you in court, the most you can lose is one month's rent.