Career breaks allow individuals to explore passion projects that would otherwise be difficult to fit into a normal work schedule, while simultaneously giving them time to focus on family goals and find balance between their professional life and home life.
However, it is essential that any career break be carefully planned - this involves budgeting for expenses and having a back up plan should something unexpected arise.
1. Don’t Let Yourself Go
Career breaks can be an excellent way to refuel, gain perspective and figure out your next move. Whether you're feeling trapped by your current position, needing better work-life balance or have reached the pinnacle of your career ladder, taking a time out can make all the difference in how successful your future becomes.
Use your break to travel, volunteer or gain new skills. Employers will see it as a positive trait that you managed your time well and are determined - something which your break can show them!
Always budget for living expenses and discuss any investments that might need converting into cash with your financial adviser if possible - this will enable you to return to work confidently and without an overwhelming deficit in your finances.
2. Take Care of Yourself
A career break can provide the opportunity to take some time away from work and focus on other parts of your life that may have been neglected, such as hobbies, family obligations or caring for parents or siblings.
Take time out for yourself to recharge and expand your skillset. Doing so can give your work renewed energy and enthusiasm as well as an opportunity to sharpen and broaden them.
If you intend to return to the workforce after taking an extended break, taking courses or volunteering in your field could make you an asset when returning and may even lead to new job opportunities. Don't neglect the importance of monitoring finances closely: unexpected expenses will arise and it's essential that you don't risk running out of cash before your break is up.
3. Don’t Forget About Your Career
Retaking a break doesn't necessarily have to mean leaving your career altogether, though. Take this time as an opportunity to evaluate your goals, acquire new skills, and discover hidden passions you didn't get to explore while working full-time.
When making the decision to return to work, ensure you plan and communicate your plans clearly to your employer. Choose a time when they won't be as stressed out by this move and be forthcoming when explaining why you are taking time off.
Be sure to explain how your break will benefit your career when returning. This will demonstrate your desire and dedication to further advance in your profession and convince employers that you won't stop climbing the career ladder anytime soon!
4. Make a Plan
Planning a career break involves considering both your wants and needs carefully. For instance, if you plan to leave an employer that offers health, life or other types of insurance policies during your break period, ensure that plans have been put in place to cover those costs during that time.
If your break will include working on something you are passionate about and can turn into a business, take steps now to set it up on return - such as professional training classes or creating a website to showcase it.
Establish a savings plan for the duration of your break and plan to manage any debt that accumulates during this time. A set financial goal can serve as an effective motivator, making saving easier once it comes time to relaunch your career.
5. Be Flexible
When taking a career break for something like travel or caring for family, having an action plan in place to maintain healthy work-life balance and show that this time-off from professional goals won't erode their progress is essential.
Retraining may also offer the chance to expand your network and gain experience you couldn't gain at your previous job, making your transition back into work much smoother - or possibly leading to finding a new one altogether!
An effective career break demonstrates your strength and discipline that employers will find impressive. While employers may hesitate to grant permission, there are multiple reasons they should say "yes".
