The Power of Ten - 10 benefits of taking a career break

Taking a career break, whether it's for personal, professional, or health reasons, can offer several potential benefits:

1. Renewed Energy and Motivation: A career break allows you to recharge and replenish your energy levels. It can reignite your passion for work and provide a fresh perspective, leading to increased motivation when you return to your career.

2. Personal Growth and Self-Reflection: During a career break, you have the opportunity to reflect on your life and career goals, assess your values, and gain a deeper understanding of yourself. This introspection can lead to personal growth, improved self-awareness, and clarity about your aspirations.

3. Improved Work-Life Balance: Taking a break can help you achieve a healthier work-life balance. It allows you to focus on personal relationships, hobbies, self-care, and other non-work-related activities that contribute to overall well-being and happiness.

4. Skill Enhancement and Learning Opportunities: Career breaks provide a chance to learn new skills, acquire knowledge in different areas, or pursue personal interests. You can engage in courses, workshops, volunteering, or self-directed learning, expanding your skillset and making you more marketable when you return to work.

5. Exploring New Opportunities: A career break can provide the space and freedom to explore new career paths, industries, or entrepreneurial ventures. It allows you to step out of your comfort zone and consider alternative options that align better with your passions and aspirations.

6. Enhanced Creativity and Problem-Solving: Stepping away from work temporarily can stimulate creativity and foster innovative thinking. Engaging in new experiences, hobbies, or travel can inspire fresh ideas and perspectives, which can be applied to problem-solving when you resume your career.

7. Improved Mental and Physical Health: Taking a break can have a positive impact on your mental and physical well-being. It allows time for rest, stress reduction, and self-care activities. This break from work-related pressures can lead to improved mental health, reduced burnout, and increased overall happiness.

8. Strengthened Relationships: Career breaks provide an opportunity to invest time and energy in nurturing personal relationships. You can spend quality time with family, friends, and loved ones, deepening connections and creating cherished memories.

9. Global Perspective and Cultural Understanding: Traveling or immersing yourself in different cultures during a career break can broaden your worldview and enhance cultural understanding. Exposure to diverse perspectives and experiences can enrich your personal and professional life.

10. Increased Job Satisfaction and Fulfilment: By taking a career break, you can reassess your career choices and make adjustments that align better with your values and passions. This can result in increased job satisfaction and a greater sense of fulfilment when you return to work.

It's important to note that the benefits of a career break may vary based on individual circumstances and goals. Planning, financial considerations, and maintaining open communication with employers or professional networks are essential aspects to consider when taking a career break.

Note about the author: Andrew Hulbert is a multi-award winning entrepreneur, non-exec director, speaker, author, platelet donor and philanthropist. The ‘Power of Ten’ summarises Andrew’s learnings across the last decade and looks to share some of the valuable mistakes, lessons and learnings during that time. For a succinct summary of Andrew’s career you can visit: https://www.iwfmawards.org/previous-winners/winner-outstanding-contribution-to-workplace-and-facilities-management-2022/ . If you’d like to start a conversation, please direct message on LinkedIn.