The power of taking time off!

#mentalhealth #selfcare #newjob #recruitment

The Power of Taking Time Off: Embrace the Benefits of a Break Between Jobs

In the fast-paced world we live in, the transition between leaving one job and starting a new one often feels like a whirlwind. The temptation to jump right into the next opportunity can be strong, driven by the desire to maintain momentum and avoid gaps in our CV. However, there is value in taking time off to recharge, relax, and focus on yourself before diving into the next chapter of your career.

One month of dedicated self-care can do wonders for your overall well-being and set you up for success in your new role. Here are some of the benefits I experienced by embracing this opportunity:

1. Mental Clarity: Taking a break from the daily grind allows your mind to decompress and recharge. It gives you the space to reflect on your past experiences, gain perspective, and reassess your career goals. By disconnecting from work-related stress, you can restore your energy and enter your new job with a fresh mindset and clarity.
2. Personal Growth: This hiatus provides an excellent chance to engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfilment. Take up a hobby, travel, read, or simply spend quality time with loved ones. For me, it gave me time to re-engage with my art and illustration work. I had time to travel home to Ireland and be with family. I also travelled from Ireland to Portugal on a last-minute break with the lads (something I couldn’t do if I didn’t give myself this time). I would recommend that you use this time to explore your passions and invest in quality time with those close to you.
3. ?Balance and Well-being: Continuously working without breaks can lead to burnout and an imbalance in life. Taking time off allows you to restore harmony between work and personal life. Use this opportunity to prioritise self-care practices such as exercise, meditation, or indulging in activities that promote relaxation. I used the time to leisurely stroll around the rivers in Norwich, go paddle boarding, enjoy a game of tag rugby, and discover new hidden gems to eat and enjoy a cheeky summer beer in my new home. By prioritising your well-being, you lay the foundation for long-term success and happiness in life.
4. ?Increased Job Satisfaction: Taking time off between jobs allows you to carefully select the right opportunity for your next career move. It gives you the freedom to evaluate job offers, company cultures, and align your values with your future workplace. By approaching your job search from a place of calm and self-assurance, you are more likely to find a position that truly resonates with your aspirations. For me, I didn’t know where I was going after I left LMA Recruitment, but towards the end of my time off, I found what I think is the right home in Dnevo Partners. Their stance on personal development and work life balance, allowing me to work as easily in Norwich as I did in London, was just what I needed.

In a world that glorifies being busy, working those extra hours, and going that extra mile, remember to apply those buzzwords to yourself before applying them to anything else. You will be glad you did! Taking a month to unwind and prioritise self-care may seem counterintuitive. However, this intentional break is an investment in your overall well-being, personal growth, and future success. Embrace the benefits of stepping back and enjoying time for yourself before embarking on the next phase of your career journey.

Remember, your career is a marathon, not a sprint. Taking time off to chill and focus on yourself can be the key to finding the balance and fulfilment you seek in both your personal and professional.

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