Introduction: Armando’s Sabbatical Journey
Armando, facing work-related burnout and personal life challenges, decided to take a sabbatical—a break from professional activities to recharge and tackle daily responsibilities. Initially planning for six months, an unexpected event extended his leave to 1.2 years.
Key Steps for a Successful Sabbatical
- Determine Time Away: Clearly outline how long you intend to be away from the workforce, as financial considerations are crucial. A sabbatical is typically envisioned as a one-year period, but it can be adjusted based on individual needs. Six months is the standard duration, as per Indeed, a human capital company.
- Create a Realistic Budget: List your fixed expenses (mortgage, rent, utilities) and variable costs (entertainment, clothing). To maximize savings, eliminate non-essential expenses like frequent dining out.
- Review Your Bank Account: Assess your current savings and determine if it’s sufficient for the planned duration and estimated expenses. Ideally, have more savings than required to handle unforeseen expenses and extend your sabbatical if needed.
- Secure Healthcare Coverage: If you’ve resigned from your job and no longer have access to institutions like IMSS or ISSSTE, consider obtaining a major medical insurance policy to avoid being unprotected.
Impact of a Sabbatical on Your Career
Ideally, take a leave of absence from your job, but most people choose to resign. This allows time to return with a refreshed mind and start job hunting.
However, there may be consequences upon your return. Itzel Orozco, a labor coach, explains, “Unfortunately, there are still effects. There’s a loss of currency and uncertainty about how to return. Significant changes may have occurred in your sector or specialty, which could negatively impact you.”
Orozco notes that salary-wise, you might not find higher compensation, but at least equal pay. However, with rapid technological advancements—especially AI—there’s a risk of negative effects within a year.
The real impact, according to Orozco, depends on how you communicate with your employer. Explaining that you needed the time for a critical situation and that it was necessary can be more favorable than admitting you couldn’t find work or knew how to start.
What to Do After a Sabbatical
Orozco advises reconnecting with old contacts and establishing new ones, enhancing your visibility in your field through networking. Stay updated on new tools and technologies and refine your job search strategies, including seeking assistance from specialists, mentors, or coaches.
“A job seeker who actively seeks the right help has a better chance of landing their desired role,” Orozco emphasizes.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: How long should my sabbatical be? A: Typically, a one-year sabbatical is planned, but it can be adjusted based on individual needs. Six months is a common standard.
- Q: How do I create a realistic budget? A: List your fixed and variable expenses. Eliminate non-essential costs to maximize savings.
- Q: What if I don’t have enough savings? A: Ideally, save more than required to cover unforeseen expenses and extend your sabbatical if necessary.
- Q: How will my career be affected by a sabbatical? A: There might be consequences, such as changes in your sector or specialty. Communicate the necessity of your sabbatical effectively to minimize negative impacts.
- Q: What should I do after my sabbatical? A: Reconnect with contacts, stay updated on new tools and technologies, and refine your job search strategies.
