3 of the Greatest Fears of a Sabbatical . . .

 And Why You Should Ignore Them

“Are you serious?”

“Eight months off work?!” 

“Can you go back to your job afterward?”

These are some of the comments I heard when I began telling people I was going to take a sabbatical from my position as Vice President of IT in a Cyber Security Startup in late 2019.

Some people were shocked, and even my supportive colleagues were unsure how it would all work.

As I am in Spain writing this from a Co-Living and Co Working Center, I wanted to demystify some of the fears that can prevent us from taking some life-changing breaks.

 I’ve identified three common fears that keep people from even thinking about taking a sabbatical, let alone planning one.

Fear #1: “If I’m Not Moving Up, I’m on the Way Out”

 The first fear I’ve observed comes from the idea that if a person is not seeking their next opportunity or preparing for their next role, something is wrong with their career.

Your career is either moving forward or not successful; that’s the conventional thinking here.

The truth is in the fast-paced world of high-tech startups and hyper-growth companies, sabbaticals can be a game changer.

Sabbaticals can provide an opportunity for rest, recovery and reflection that is essential to continue improving.

Time away allows us to digest all that has happened and allow our experiences to become wisdom. This time also allows for the physical, mental and emotional healing we all need from an intense career.

Fear #2: “If I leave my job, there won’t be another job or opportunity when I return!”

The second fear people fall into is the belief there won’t be a job or opportunity when they return. They’ll get back from their sabbatical and find themselves unemployed for an uncomfortably long period of time. Again, this is not true.   

Recruiters I spoke to have said sabbaticals in tech are very common and are not an impediment to getting a job afterwards.

The demand for people with relevant technical skill sets is consistently very high, and with a detailed plan, you’ll have ample time to start up conversations and find your next opportunity when it is time.

Fear #3: “If I take off a few months, my skills won’t be sharp!”

This third fear arises from the idea that time away from the work force causes your skills to diminish.

If you’re not constantly working, this thinking goes, you’ll lose your edge. 

Again, not true.

 In six to twelve months you can’t lose your knowledge, skills, and abilities that make you a solid employee. Also, a sabbatical is a perfect time to re-tool and discover new technologies you would not have in a job.

Make learning new skills a part of your plan. A sabbatical is a time to sharpen your edge and come back stronger than before. 

Don’t let false expectations prevent you from doing something that can positively impact your career.

Start planning when you should take your sabbatical today.

If you have any questions on Sabbatical Planning - Hit Reply and ask them!

5 Must Do Things When You Are on a Sabbatical from Tech

Taking a sabbatical from your tech career, whether by choice or circumstance, can be a valuable opportunity.

Embrace this time as something done for you, not to you.

Here are five essential activities to make the most of your sabbatical.

1. Synthesize and Reflect by Writing

Often, we move too fast to record our experiences and lessons. This is the time to slow down and reflect.

Daily Journal Practice: Spend 30 to 60 minutes writing about your career, lessons learned, people met, and valuable stories. Write without editing; just let your thoughts flow. After 30-40 days, it becomes a rewarding habit.

Create a Life Plan: Read Living Forward and draft your life plan. It clarifies how you want to navigate the second half of your life.

2. Implement Impact Rituals and Routines

Leaving corporate life can disrupt your routine. Establishing new, healthy rituals can bring structure and balance.

• Start-Up Routine: Incorporate meditation and journaling into your morning.

• Daily Exercise: Schedule workouts at times when your body feels ready.

• Strolling: Take two 30-minute walks daily without a specific purpose, just to let your mind wander.

• Pre-Sleep Routine: Disconnect from electronics an hour before bed, lower lights, read, and relax.

3. Start a Hobby You Love

Engaging in a hobby can be both relaxing and fulfilling.

For example, baking became a joy for me and my family during my sabbatical in 2019.

Choose a hobby that relaxes you, isn't related to your vocation, uses a different part of your brain, and benefits others.

4. Create Space for Downtime

Adjusting from an executive pace to a slower rhythm can be challenging but beneficial.

Embrace Downtime: Activities like nature walks, playing games with kids, sipping coffee while thinking, leisurely bike rides, and laying in a hammock can help your brain recover and boost creativity.

5. Spend Face-to-Face Time with Loved Ones

Don't suffer regret by not spending time with loved ones.

Use this opportunity to reconnect.

Regular Meetups: Arrange coffee dates, dinners, and trips to visit people you care about. Engage in deep, meaningful conversations.

Reflect on Your Legacy

As you enjoy your sabbatical, think beyond your resume and consider your legacy. Teaching, leading, and giving to others can scale your impact and support your main vocation.

TLDR:

• Reflect on your career and experiences through journaling.

• Establish healthy routines and rituals.

• Engage in hobbies that refresh you and benefit your family.

• Embrace downtime to boost creativity and mental recovery.

• Reconnect with loved ones and strengthen relationships.

Following these steps, you can transform your sabbatical into a period of personal growth, relaxation, and meaningful connection.

Tech Equity and Money Talk is a weekly podcast showing you how to work for tech equity as a wealth-building strategy and meet your financial goals.

063 🎙️ Understanding Debt & Credit Funds with Michael Episcope

Again, Michael Episcope is joining me to discuss an area of his expertise: Debt and Credit Funds.

With the recent proliferation of debt and credit funds, I wanted to get some insights into what red flags to look for and signs of success.

If you don’t know what a debt or credit fund is, we cover that too. Check it out, now! 👇️ 

When you are ready, there are 3 Ways I can Help You:

1.) Get started on your learning - 🎧️ Follow our Podcast

2.) Watch our Videos - 📺️ Subscribe to our Channel

2.) Build a Career or Money Strategy 🧠 Book a 1:1 coaching session

Disclaimer: This newsletter is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or career advice. Always consult with qualified professionals before making any decisions based on the information provided.