Life's Pause: Taking a Sabbatical
Prepping for a break from work: Essential considerations before embarking on a sabbatical
Tired of the daily grind? Dreaming of traveling the world, focusing on personal projects, or just taking a much-needed break? You're not alone. Many workers fantasize about taking a break from their jobs, but planning a sabbatical can often seem daunting. Here's a lowdown on what to consider when you're ready to pop the sabbatical question.
What's a Sabbatical, You Ask?
Nina Kuhlmann, a career coach specializing in sabbaticals, defines it as a "deliberate professional hiatus." Typically, a sabbatical involves a well-earned rest, personal reflection, or educational pursuits, all while stepping away from work duties. Kuhlmann believes the "conscious" aspect is crucial – it's essential to know what you want to achieve after your break. And as for the duration, two months or more is her sweet spot.
Finding the Guts to Go for It
One of the most significant hurdles in planning a sabbatical is finding the courage to voice your desires, according to Kuhlmann. Start by sharing your ideas with trusted folks, as German culture cherishes security. Fear of the unknown or change might lurk, but it can be eased.
Imagining your dream sabbatical and embracing it can help. Delve into your preferred travel destination—its culture, music, food, and more. This mental exercise helps fire up your motivation and prepare you for the adventure ahead.
Models, Models, Models
Some companies appreciate sabbaticals and offer structured time-off programs. This model offers a clear financial and insurance framework. Large or medium-sized companies may have a lifetime account—overtime or vacation pay can be saved and converted into time off. Part-time models, where you work 75% for three years and have a year off, are another option. With these models, social security contributions continue via your employer during your time off.
Unpaid leaves, like taking an unpaid vacation, are possible, but often require advance preparation and savings for living expenses and insurance.
Talking Sabbatical to Your Boss
"Understand your boss's perspective and highlight the benefits of your break," advises Kuhlmann. A sabbatical isn't just about professional development, it's also about personal growth, introducing new perspectives, and boosting energy upon return.
Rather than use a begging tone, approach with self-assuredness. Avoid threatening to resign during negotiations—no one appreciates pressure.
Financing Your Sabbatical Adventure
Affording a sabbatical can be tricky. The costs depend on your chosen model and plans during the break. Developing financial awareness is key. Tracking income and expenses in a household book or using relevant apps helps. Cutting back on miscellaneous expenses—like streaming services or insurance—may help reach savings goals faster. Subletting your apartment during an extended break abroad can also be a money-saver.
Legal Matters
Employees have no legal claim to leave beyond regular vacation. The employer's consent is a prerequisite, and the duration of the sabbatical needs to be clarified. Short breaks of less than three months require different arrangements. It's essential to put all agreements in writing to avoid misunderstandings.
Insurance coverage is vital. Health insurance might lapse during the sabbatical, depending on the chosen model. Employees using their accumulated time credit for the break should ensure their saved time is secure against the risk of employer insolvency. And don't forget to consider disruptions such as long-term illness or premature termination of the employment contract in your plans.
By addressing these points, you can ensure a successful sabbatical that's both refreshing and strategic for your career.
[1] Forbes: The Unconventional Case for Taking a Sabbatical (forbes.com)
[2] Glassdoor: How to Ask Your Boss for a Sabbatical (glassdoor.com)
[3] Harvard Business Review: The New Rules of Taking a Career Break (hbr.org)
[4] The Balance Careers: 12 Steps to Plan Your Sabbatical (thebalancecareers.com)
[5] Monster: How to Take a Sabbatical and Return to Work (monster.com)
During your sabbatical, you might find solace in embracing a new home-and-garden lifestyle, tending to your personal space and nurturing your well-being. Upon your return, you could share your acquired skills and experiences, enriching the workplace environment.
Or, after a rejuvenating sabbatical, you could immerse yourself in diverse home-and-garden, travel, and culture scenes, expanding your horizon and gaining perspectives that could fuel your future endeavors.
