There might be a time in your life when a job and money seem less important than quality of life. Perhaps it’s time to take some extended leave. But will it damage your career?
You probably know someone who has taken some time off from their job to travel, to write a book or pursue a lifelong dream. Wouldn’t it be nice to have some time off from work and finish that two year old project that you once started but have no time for now?
When should you to consider extended leave
If the hustle and bustle of your working life is getting you down, perhaps it’s time to take a break to gain some perspective and explore your options.
Perhaps you have a burning desire to achieve something else apart from work. It’s that feeling that just won’t quit until you do something about it. Perhaps taking leave will buy you some time to make that dream a reality.
In some situations, it may be just what the doctor ordered to ensure your physical and mental health and well being.
If it is unpaid leave, do you have enough savings to sustain you and your family, including cost of living and incidentals? It’s also important to work out exactly what is motivating you to take extended leave to ensure that you don’t waste the time you are taking off.
Things to do while on extended leave
Make a to-do list of tasks you want to accomplish and keep checking on your progress from time to time. This will certainly keep you focussed on your goals. There are many things that you could do with some time off; here are some ideas to add to your own list.
- Join a social group in your local community
- Make contact with old friends and colleagues
- Start a new hobby
- Do some volunteer work
- Commence an exercise program
- Do a cooking class and release the masterchef in you
- Go on a holiday and travel the world
- Undertake a new course for pleasure or to extend your education
- Write a book
- Go to art class
- Renovate the house
- Spend some time with the family and just chill
A few points to consider
There is always a risk of isolating yourself when you are away from your normal work life, so even if you are travelling, keep in touch with colleagues, friends and family. Facebook is great for keeping in touch and connecting with others.
Be somewhat flexible about your return to work and ensure your employer is aware that you can be contacted if need be.
Ensure that if you do something to help your career while on extended leave, that it goes into your CV.
Taking extended leave will not be detrimental to your career. It may even be beneficial. If you’re entitled to annual leave, why not use it to improve your personal or professional life, explore your interests or simply have an opportunity to re-energise.
Best of all, enjoy yourself
Leah Gibbs is the Founder and Business Manager of Lifestyle Careers.
Lifestyle Careers is an online recruitment job board. Our niche and specific focus is the advertising of flexible employment and work at home positions. It is designed for professionals wanting to balance their work and personal life.
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