Take a Break
Before you take the next step in your career
I spoke at a women's career network about unconventional career paths a few weeks ago. I was amazed how many, primarily young women, had already changed careers. Some had not only changed jobs more than five times but had also changed careers. I was delighted about this, as frequent career changes are becoming standard.
But the young women didn’t rest between two careers. Instead, they did further training or founded a company.
The time between two jobs or careers is an excellent opportunity to recharge your batteries and do what you've always wanted.
What about you? What would you do between the two careers?
I'm writing this article for a good reason: I quit my job and fortunately will be starting a new one in September. I would love to start my new job immediately, but I need the time to reset and get new inspiration. All my jobs have required creativity, finding suitable solutions, and exploring new avenues. And with working 12 hours a day, that's not possible. I was always busy - also in my spare time.
I am lucky to have the opportunity for a five-month sabbatical - a garden leave period paid by my previous employer. But this is not widespread.
Typically, transitioning to a new job occurs either while unemployed or still working, presenting challenges. Negotiating time off before starting is possible and beneficial, offering a chance to prioritize personal needs and financial considerations.
Your steps to increase your chances of taking time out:
Assessing business needs and providing ample notice is crucial to requesting time off.
Financial factors such as social security coverage, bonuses, and personal obligations like family events or moving should be considered.
Adequate time to relax and recharge is essential for starting a new job with energy and focus. Negotiating for sufficient time off demonstrates a commitment to well-being and sets a positive tone for the new role.
Additionally, budgeting time to ramp up before starting ensures a smooth transition. While a month is often the peak duration for requested time off, negotiating for more may be possible, emphasizing the importance of open communication and compromise in the negotiation process.
When starting the time out, don’t waste your time watching Netflix - RELAX
At the beginning of my sabbatical, I realized I had forgotten how to relax. It took me a while to identify what I needed to recharge.
Can you instantly list the things that relax you?
After a while, I (re)-found the relaxing moments:
Watching the birds in my garden
Lying in bed and reading a book
Leaving the phone in the corner and forgetting where it is
Dancing while nobody is watching me
Doing yoga exercises that come naturally with the flow
Writing a story or a blog fluently out of my mind
Preparing a meal with vegetables I just got from the ToGoodToGo bag
Most of these moments happen in silence. I am with myself.
Your task:
Write your list now because otherwise, you cannot remember what's good for you when stressed out.
Breaks are essential to calm down and find inspiration for the next step in your career.
After one month of relaxation, I am ready for the next step: education and traveling. I am practicing Spanish for my 2-month road trip through the Iberian peninsula. I've had this plan for a long time: just set off and stay wherever I like.
