People have started to take extended breaks from their routine in the form of mini sabbaticals, adult gap years, or gap months. While it is not a new concept, the COVID-19 pandemic caused many to question their work-life balance, leading to more people seeking ways to step out of their expected routine and recharge. Companies are beginning to offer breaks as a way to address employee burnout with initiatives like the Sabbatical Project, which aims to promote a more humane relationship with work by encouraging extended leaves of absence.
Roshida Dowe took advantage of being laid off by taking a break before looking for her next position. She noticed a lack of support for those wanting extended time off to travel, leading her to become a career-break coach. Along with Stephanie Perry, Dowe launched ExodUS Summit, a platform for Black women interested in developing their plans for location freedom, financial freedom, and/or time freedom. The summit addresses practical issues related to extended travel as well as philosophical topics like the value of rest and breaking free from intergenerational trauma.
Financial constraints can often hinder people from considering extended breaks, but there are creative solutions available. For example, Ashley Graham was able to afford a road trip through the South by staying with friends along the way. Home-exchange websites like HomeExchange, Homelink, and Holiday Swap can also help travelers connect with others interested in trading homes. Eric Rewitzer and Annie Galvin trusted employees to run their art gallery in San Francisco while they spent a summer in France and Ireland, leading to a significant shift in perspective on work-life balance.
Gregory Du Bois has made taking mini sabbaticals throughout his corporate IT career a way of life, negotiating for extended time off each time he changed jobs. He emphasized the importance of taking breaks to recharge and perform at his best, ultimately leading him to a career as a life coach post-retirement. Ultimately, taking extended breaks has become a way for many individuals to step out of the expected routine, recharge, and gain valuable perspective on work-life balance. It is a trend that is becoming more popular as people realize the benefits of taking time away from the routine to focus on personal growth and well-being.
