Jillian Johnsrud is at the forefront of a new retirement approach, where people can take multiple breaks from their 9-5 jobs to focus on things that matter to them, rather than following the traditional three-stage journey of school, work, and retirement. She defines a mini-retirement as a month or longer away from work to focus on meaningful activities. These breaks can be transformative, allowing individuals to relax, explore new interests, and even work on side projects or start a business.
Jillian’s own journey began with a low-paying job and $55,000 in student loan debt, leading her to explore the concept of mini-retirements during a year off. Through speaking engagements, courses, coaching, and her Retire Often podcast, she has taught thousands of people how to strategically plan and take these career breaks. By stepping away from the traditional path, individuals can experience personal, financial, and professional growth in unexpected ways.
Taking a mini-retirement requires careful planning in terms of how to spend the time, negotiating time off with employers, and managing finances. Setting intentions for the break, crafting a compelling story for employers, and creating a budget are essential steps in preparing for a successful mini-retirement. While passive income can be helpful in financing future breaks, it is not a requirement for taking an initial mini-retirement and can be explored as individuals gain confidence in this lifestyle.
One of the biggest misconceptions about mini-retirements is that they are not feasible for individuals with important roles in their organizations. In reality, having a critical position can make it easier to secure time off, as it may be more challenging to replace someone in such a role. Similarly, entrepreneurs can also benefit from taking sabbaticals, as it can lead to a more streamlined business and renewed energy upon their return. By dispelling these misconceptions, more people can feel empowered to pursue mini-retirements as a way to rejuvenate their careers and lives.
Rather than aiming for early retirement, Jillian advocates for the concept of retiring often, taking regular breaks to reassess one’s career and personal goals. Mini-retirements can be a way to explore new opportunities, switch fields, or start a business, adding variety and fulfillment to one’s work life. By incorporating these breaks into their routine, individuals can lead a more balanced life, focusing on family, hobbies, travel, and personal growth. Through her podcast and coaching, Jillian continues to inspire others to embrace the idea of retire-often and discover the benefits of taking intentional career breaks.
