What? A break? Oh, like a couple of days to do a project or two around the house, get caught up on medical appointments or have lunch with a friend before delving into the next job?
If that's your concept of a "break between jobs", perhaps you'll consider a different plan.
Those of you who have read my blogs know that I am a proponent of time off as a way to renew energy, reduce stress and increase productivity. The fact is, Americans work too much. Unlike Europeans, we "live to work", rather than the other way around. Our fevered pace of life and work has us stretched to the max with all of the emotional and physical consequences that accompany a stressful life.
Given our frenetic lifestyles, it's a minor miracle that anyone finds the time in his or her busy life to look for a new job, let alone determine a new career path. To complicate matters, if your job is stressful, or you are among the numbers of Americans experiencing burnout, you have even less energy to devote to a transition.
While some career counselors advise against leaving a job before having another lined up, that is not my view. At times it's not only a good idea, but also essential to a person's wellbeing and ability to envision new options to take time off between jobs—even without another in sight.
Allowing yourself the rest you need and time for activities that renew your spirit can restore your energy and help with clarity and focus in your job search. Conversely, pushing yourself to move forward from a place of weariness or exhaustion is likely to further cloud your thinking and hinder your process.
I realize that taking time off is not an option for everyone. But, if you can find a way to manage it financially, why not consider the idea of time off and create an intentional transition to your next job?
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With all do respect taking a break between jobs, PLEASE!!! You must be from a different planet. I would bet that 99.99% of the people in the real world can not afford to "Take a break". It would be great and what a stress release idea before you start your new job. But no Mrs. Poppins, not all is "Music" to our ears. We have to eat, pay the rent feed the kids and cat, and so on. Next time between jobs I think I will join the Peace Corps.
I anticipated this blog would elicit a comment or two about the practicality of the idea of taking time off. However, this option is a veritable one for some, and I wanted to speak to it.
Posted by BarbaraOkay, I'm ready! I have NO money saved at all. Almost all my bills are due. I have 5 cats to care for, but I HATE my job and I can't think anymore. I have no family or friends to help with finances either. And no I don't have another job lined up...but, I'm going on faith and taking a break. Thanks for the suggestion!
Posted by SallieKeep in mind that the Career Center on Lancaster Street (if you are in Portland, ME) has free services to people in the job market, including job postings and workshops. Their "Unemployed Professionals" group meets on Tuesdays from 8:30-noon and is a great way to network and learn job search tips.
I hope your break gives you what you need to shift to a job you enjoy!
Posted by BarbaraMany are experiencing burnout after working many years in their jobs and the best thing to do is to take a short leave in order to feel better. Our body needs a few calm days from time to time.
dordor77@netvision.net.il
I have been contemplating quitting my job without another because of burnout and the lack of time to focus on figuring out what it is that I really want to do. However I've always been told that you shouldn't leave a job without another one. I'm glad I saw this article. I'm going to figure out if there's a way I can afford some down time.
Posted by SandySandy, I hope it works out for you to take a break. Be ready with an explanation for the break if you're asked by a prospective employer.
Needing some R&R is a good reason.
A "leave of absence" is probably a more practical suggestion. If you are not aware of your company's policies regarding personal leaves, ask your human resources manager. Many companies allow a 3-6 month leave but do not advertise this information.
Posted by TraceyGood suggestion, Tracey, providing a person is open to returning to their employer. There are many possibilities once a person decides to opt for this option of a break.
Posted by BarbaraThis concept should create additional incentive to live within one's means. You enable yourself far more flexibility when you have paid yourself first and saved for this type of opportunity. Of course this never applies to everyone, but if you can cut back on daily spending this can be your reward!
Posted by CSI'm taking the chance!!! I am so burned out at my job (I work in corrections) that I fear for my health. My plan... use my 401 money to supplement my income until I find something else. I don't care if I have to clean toilets - when it's time to go - it's time to go!!!!!!!
Posted by Nancy17 months ago I was at wit's end. I began a plan to leave at the end of June 07 (right around the corner). I have saved and saved, working extra odd jobs here and there as needed to cushion the unexpected financial situations. I am on my way to being able to take a break. I have allowed for 6-8 months off, though knowing myself I won't last that long with free time. I do have a job interview next week, but feel a "they need me more than I need them" attitude, which has propelled me into the top 2 for the position. Strange! If offered the job at the wage I require (which is new to me as well...as I've never allowed myself to require a wage before) I will only accept the job if they let me begin in August so I can travel the whole month of July. If not, it isn't the job for me. My resume will be honest, explaining how I planned my time off and willingly let my work contract expire with no desire to renew. I have nothing to hide and have found that the more honest I am about everything at my jobs, the further I seem to advance. I even list a job I walked out on and I explain WHY in interviews. I have never interviewed and NOT received a job. Obviously that streak can't last forever, but I must be doing something right...or something refreshing. I applaud this article, and any naysayers out there just must not want it bad enough. Where there is a will, there is a way. I'm proof! p.s. all the while that I have been saving for this time off, I also have been paying off all of my college/other debt. I am almost debt free and I am 29 years old.
Posted by Jess B
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