Should You Go for a Career Break?

Taking a career break can sometimes be a daunting prospect. It’s the equivalent of a gap year in the world of students. Yet it’s really not uncommon. In fact, according to Linkedin data, 62% of employees worldwide have used a career break in their lives. Should you take the plunge and take some time away from your job, or stay firmly rooted in the comfortable routine of your current life? Well, why not? A career break is the perfect opportunity to shake up your life and have a little fun in the process.

1. Benefits of Taking a Career Break

Taking a career break can be hugely beneficial for your personal growth and professional development. It can provide you with the opportunity to explore new interests, develop new skills and take on new challenges. It can also give you time to think about your career goals and objectives and to reassess your career path. Taking a break can also reduce stress, improve your mental health and give you the space to relax and recharge both physically and mentally. In addition, a career break can give you the freedom to travel, to work abroad and to explore new cultures, all of which can help to broaden your horizons and enhance your career prospects.

2. Ways to Make a Career Break Work

Taking a career break can be a great way to reignite your love for your job and gain valuable experience. If you are considering a career break, there are a few things you should consider. First, plan out how you will fund your break. Will you use savings or take out a loan? It’s important to have a financial plan in place before you start. Additionally, you need to decide what you will do on your break in a same way as a student in a gap year would. Will it be a once-in-a-lifetime trip or a short-term volunteering project? Either way, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Finally, make sure you keep your resume and skills up to date while on the break so that you are ready to jump back into the job market when you return.

3. Pros & Cons of Taking a Break

Taking a career break can be a great way to recharge, reflect and explore new opportunities, however it’s not always the right decision for everyone. It’s important to weigh up the pros and cons before making a decision. On the plus side, taking a career break can give you the time and space to gain perspective, explore new interests, develop new skills and learn more about yourself. On the downside, there’s a risk of being left behind in your field, having to start from scratch if you decide to return, and taking a financial hit if you’re not able to get back into the workforce. Ultimately, it’s a personal decision and only you can decide if taking a career break is the right move for you.

Besides, you’d better be ready for job interview questions about the reasons that led you to take a career break, and you’ll definitely need to explain what you got out of your career break in your resume.

4. Financial Considerations

It’s important to consider the financial implications of taking a career break. Depending on your situation, you may have to take a pay cut or use up some of your savings. If you have a family, you’ll also need to consider additional costs, such as childcare if you plan to go back to work after your break. It’s a good idea to plan your finances carefully and make sure you have enough to cover your expenses while you’re away. Consider talking to a financial advisor to help you make the right decisions.

5. Alternatives to Taking a Break

If you’re not ready to take a full career break, there are some alternatives you could consider. You may be able to negotiate reduced or flexible hours with your current employer, which may give you enough time to pursue some of your other interests. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, taking some time out for yourself can be beneficial – even a day or a weekend away from work can make a world of difference. Alternatively, you could look into taking a sabbatical, which allows you to take a longer break from your job, but with the security of being able to resume from the same job afterwards. Whichever alternative you choose, it’s important to make sure you have the necessary support to make it work for you.

6. Assessing Your Motivations

Taking a career break can be a great way to re-energize yourself and gain a new perspective on your career. Before committing to a career break, it is important to assess your motivations. If you are feeling overwhelmed and burned out, a career break can be a great way to re-establish a healthy work-life balance. If you are simply bored, a career break might not be the best solution. Be honest with yourself about why you want a career break – is it because you need a break or want a break? Knowing your motivations can help you determine if a career break will be right for you.