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Diny Davis (she/her/hers), Low Entropy Volunteer Writer

“Starting over is the opportunity to come back better than before.” – Ryan Kahn

Taking a career break can often feel like a journey to nowhere. Yet, the concept isn’t as modern as we might think. The idea of stepping back from one’s career for personal growth or for personal reasons has been around for many years. Today, we’re going to get a clear picture on some common misconceptions about career breaks, and dive into why this could be just what you need for a fulfilling life and career comeback.

Firstly, a career break isn’t simply an extended vacation. It’s a deliberate pause in your professional life to focus on personal development, well-being, or to pursue passions and interests that you’re normally too busy to explore. Yes, there are misconceptions surrounding it—that it’s career suicide, a sign of professional indecision, or a luxury only the financially sound can afford. However, when planned and executed well, a career break can be a powerful tool for personal and professional growth.

In an age of constant connectivity, more people are recognizing the value of getting disconnected to find a meaning to their life’s direction. There are reasons why someone takes a break from their career.

 Self-Discovery and Reflection:

• Unplugging from Routine: Taking a step back from the daily chores gives you the space to breathe, think, and see the bigger picture. It’s about taking a break from the normal routine to gain new perspectives.
• Rediscovering Passions and Interests: With time on your hands, you can pursue interests and passions you’ve left untouched. Whether it’s travelling, writing, painting or walking trials, reliving these passions can be incredibly fulfilling.
• Evaluating Personal and Career Goals: A career break allows you to assess your professional journey. Are you on the path you want to be? What truly matters to you? This period can be transformative in setting a new beginning.

Health and Well-Being:

• Reducing Stress and Burnout: Continuous work without adequate breaks can lead to burnout. Time off helps you recharge, contributing to better mental and physical health.
• Adopting Healthier Lifestyle Choices: Without the restrictions of an 8-5 schedule, you have the opportunity to focus on your health, be it through regular exercise, better eating habits, or sufficient sleep.

 

• The Impact of Rest on Mental Health: Rest isn’t just physical. A career break can provide the mental rest needed to lessen stress, leading to improved overall well-being.

Setting Clear Objectives:

• Identifying What You Want to Achieve: Reflect on what you wish to gain from this break. Clear objectives will guide your activities and ensure you make the most of this time.
• Setting Realistic Goals and Timelines: Be realistic about what you can achieve within your break. Setting timelines will help you to use this break productively. 
• Preparing a Personal Development Plan: A structured plan can keep you on track. Include milestones to achieve, skills to learn, and experiences you wish to gain.

Navigating the Return to Work:

• Assessing Your Career Path: Upon return, it’s essential to evaluate the current career path and how your break supports your goals. This may mean a career shift or a reaffirmation of your chosen path.
• Marketing Your Career Break: Showcasing your narrative about your break is really important. Emphasize the skills acquired, experiences gained, and how these enhance your professional profile.
• Restore into the Workforce: Flexibility and patience are the keys. It might take time to readapt or find the right opportunity. Seek support, whether through mentors or professional networks, and embrace the changes with an open mind.

CONCLUSION

A career break, far from being a professional setback, can mark the beginning of a more fulfilling personal and professional journey. It’s an investment in yourself that can lead to enhanced creativity, renewed passion, and a clearer sense of direction. A career break is not a time-out, but a time for personal and professional growth, exploration, and setting the stage for future successes.

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Diny Davis is an aspiring author who is passionate about fitness and a strong believer in the close connection between physical and mental health. She is a journalism, psychology and literature graduate, a loving wife and a caring mother who maintains a balance in her work and personal life while giving emphasis to self-care.