Multiple individuals aspire to take a substantial break from the demands of work. They envisage extended periods away from routine, embracing different lifestyles, and finding ways to recharge from exhaustion. Whether it is a mini-sabbatical, an adult gap year, or just a few gap months, these diverse forms of extended breaks offer a chance to step out of the expected and gain a fresh perspective on life.
One couple, the Kluczyks, decided to take a mini-sabbatical and found it so rejuvenating that they opted for another break in Portland, Maine. Upon their return, they felt more balanced and energised. Similarly, business founder Roshida Dowe recognized the importance of taking a break when she faced burnout. She noticed that American attitudes towards time off greatly differ from those in Europe, where the value of rest and holiday time is prioritized.
For many people, cost is a significant barrier when it comes to taking an extended break from work. However, there are various ways to navigate around this challenge. Stephanie Perry, who co-launched ExodUS Summit, a virtual conference and community for black women, emphasizes the significance of creating a financial, location, or time freedom plan. Dowe echoed this sentiment, stating that many women seek permission to take a sabbatical and yearn for opportunities they may not have been exposed to previously.
One of the alternatives to mitigate the cost of an extended break is housesitting. Perry notes that this practice has allowed her to travel extensively. Similarly, Ashley Graham took a break from work and travelled through the country, staying with friends for free along the way. This approach not only enabled her to connect with her past life but also influenced her decision to relocate to New Orleans.
The positive impact of extended breaks is not exclusive to individuals. Eric Rewitzer and Annie Galvin, owners of a San Francisco art gallery, handed over the reins of their business to employees and spent a summer in France and Ireland. Upon their return, they realized that their life had been out of balance, prompting them to make significant changes.
Gregory Du Bois, now a retired tech professional and life coach, highlights the importance of spiritual regeneration that he consistently experienced when negotiating for extended time off throughout his career. Each time he took a break, he communicated the need to recharge to be able to perform at his best, thereby emphasizing the vital role that extended breaks play in maintaining overall well-being.
Ultimately, the benefits of taking an extended break from work are multifaceted. From preventing burnout and gaining a fresh perspective on life to discovering new opportunities and engaging in spiritual regeneration, these breaks offer an invaluable opportunity for individuals to relax, recharge, and refocus.