6 fantastic reasons to consider a sabbatical
Generation Z, people born between 1997 and 2012, are more likely to take a career break from work than any other generation.
Sabbaticals are an extended break from your job that last long enough for you to fully relax and distance yourself from your work life, often ranging between a month and a year, or sometimes longer.
Recent research found that 34% of Gen Z are planning to take a sabbatical and 29% are looking to take an extended career break, making them the most future-oriented generation when it comes to sabbaticals.
On the other end of the spectrum, only 13% of Gen X employees (those born between 1965 and 1980) are planning to take a sabbatical, and 9% an extended career break.
If you’re contemplating whether the younger generation has the right idea, read on to discover six fantastic reasons why you should consider taking a break from work.
1. You can take the type of sabbatical that works for you
There are several different types of sabbaticals you can take, so it’s important to choose the one that will serve your lifestyle and goals the best.
Working holiday
Some people take a temporary break from their job to pursue a different kind of work, such as volunteering for a charity, founding their own company, or completing a passion project.
The satisfaction of getting to work on something you care deeply about can help you return to your usual career with renewed passion, as well as more confidence, experience, and a sense of independence.
Exploration
Many people go on a sabbatical because they feel like their job is impeding other areas of their life.
It is very common for people to travel during a sabbatical, so they can experience new things and see the world. These kinds of explorations may help people on a journey of self-discovery, so they can return to work relaxed and with a greater sense of satisfaction with life.
Quests
People who choose to take a break from work so they can complete a quest, whether it is something as simple as improving their health or as difficult as completing extra certifications, might be pushed away from their jobs by unsustainable expectations or toxic work environments.
Once they can overcome the burnout and improve themselves in one way or another, they could seek a job which is a better fit for them, or apply for higher-earning jobs with their new qualifications.
2. Stopping work could advance your career
Taking a break from your job seems like it would stall your career, rather than advance it.
However, people who embark on a sabbatical often return with additional skills, confidence, and potentially new networking connections or business experiences that they can apply to their job to advance in their field.
3. Sabbaticals can improve your mental and physical health
Long working hours and stress can take a toll on your mental and physical health.
Working in a high-pressure environment for long periods without ample breaks could lead to you dealing with burnout, which has damaging side effects such as:
Fatigue
Irritability
Feelings of hopelessness and anger
Digestive issues or stomach problems
Avoiding social events and interactions.
While away from work, you can prioritise your wellbeing and focus on exercising more, relaxing, and other healthier lifestyle choices that can boost your mood and wellness.
4. New experiences could help build resilience
Facing the unknown during a sabbatical, whether that is you pursuing a passion project or flying halfway around the world, can help you develop a stronger emotional resilience.
Overcoming challenges and adapting to new environments can teach you to gain new perspectives on the problems you face at work, as well as how to navigate their solutions with ease.
5. Sabbaticals give you the space to strengthen relationships
Work can often take over our lives, and we spend more time trying to beat the next deadline rather than enjoying time with the people who mean the most to us.
Sabbaticals offer you the opportunity to spend more time with your friends and family, so you can build up the crucial social support network you need to thrive.
6. Taking a break from work can improve your performance when you return
No matter how you choose to spend your sabbatical, a break from work provides the opportunity for you to rest and recharge, so you can return to work with more energy and renewed passion.
Plus, all the new experiences and skills you learn throughout your sabbatical can help you to improve the quality of your work and how well you manage your workload.
A financial planner can help you plan for a sabbatical
While it can improve your work performance and overall health, taking a break from work can have serious implications on your short- and long-term financial goals.
For example, you might not be able to contribute as much to your retirement savings, especially if you are part of a workplace pension scheme.
A financial planner can help you continue saving towards your goals so you can make the most of your sabbatical without having to stress about money. Get in touch to find out how we can support you.
Please note: This blog is for general information only and does not constitute financial advice, which should be based on your individual circumstances. The information is aimed at retail clients only.