How can you make the most of your sabbatical or professional development leave?

1 Define your goals

Before you apply for a sabbatical or professional development leave, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and why. What are your short-term and long-term objectives? How do they align with your personal and professional interests, values, and aspirations? How do they contribute to your academic field, your institution, and your community? Write down your goals and make them SMART: specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.

2 Plan your activities

Once you have your goals, you need to map out how you will accomplish them. What activities will you engage in during your sabbatical or professional development leave? How will they help you reach your goals? How will you allocate your time, resources, and budget? Who will you collaborate with or learn from? How will you document and communicate your progress and outcomes? Create a detailed plan that outlines your actions, milestones, deliverables, and indicators of success.

3 Manage your expectations

A sabbatical or professional development leave is not a vacation or a break from work. It is a focused and intensive period of learning and development that requires commitment, discipline, and flexibility. You may encounter challenges, setbacks, or changes along the way that may affect your plans and goals. You may also have to balance your personal and professional obligations and relationships while you are away. Be realistic and adaptable about what you can achieve and how you can cope with the demands and opportunities of your sabbatical or professional development leave.

4 Seek feedback and support

A sabbatical or professional development leave is not a solo endeavor. You can benefit from the feedback and support of others who can help you improve your work, overcome difficulties, or expand your network. Seek out mentors, peers, experts, or stakeholders who can offer you guidance, advice, or collaboration. Share your ideas, questions, or challenges with them and listen to their perspectives and suggestions. Be open to constructive criticism and new opportunities for learning and growth.

5 Evaluate your impact

A sabbatical or professional development leave is not an end in itself. It is a means to an end that should have a positive impact on your career and your field. How will you measure and demonstrate the value and outcomes of your sabbatical or professional development leave? How will you apply what you have learned or created to your teaching, research, or service? How will you disseminate your findings, products, or insights to your colleagues, students, or wider audience? Develop a strategy for assessing and communicating the impact of your sabbatical or professional development leave.

6 Celebrate your achievements

A sabbatical or professional development leave is a rewarding and enriching experience that deserves recognition and celebration. What have you accomplished and learned during your sabbatical or professional development leave? How have you grown as a scholar, educator, or leader? How have you contributed to your field, your institution, or your community? Acknowledge your achievements and thank those who have supported you along the way. Celebrate your success and share your stories and lessons with others.