Embracing the Unexpected: My 12-Month Sabbatical

In 2021, I faced a challenge that many high achievers dread: burnout. This wasn’t just the need for a short break; it was a full-blown, hit-the-wall moment that compelled me to step away from my 17-year career as a Financial Adviser. Leaving a job I loved was really difficult, compounded by the guilt of needing to support my family, with two kids in university both living in one of the world's most expensive cities, Sydney. But what unfolded over the next 12 months was a journey of self-discovery, growth, and renewal that changed my life in unexpected ways.

The Power of Slowing Down

For the first time in two decades, I had space—lots of it. Initially, this newfound freedom felt unsettling. I had been operating at two speeds: fast and faster. But as the days unfolded, I began to embrace the power of slowing down. I introduced a simple yet profound ritual into my mornings: a 15-minute meditation. This practice became my anchor, helping me reconnect with myself and find clarity. 

Gone were the days of gulping down coffee while rushing out the door. Instead, I started savoring my morning brew while sitting outside in the sunshine and just enjoying the moment. I realized that slowing down allowed me to be more present, a concept foreign to my previous life of constant multitasking. This newfound stillness helped me listen to my inner voice, understand my true desires, and recognize the critical importance of rest and recovery. Slowing down, paradoxically, became my secret to speeding up my internal growth and healing.

Rediscovering Physical Strength

In my late 40s, I felt the urge to regain my physical strength. The gym, once an intimidating and boring place, became my new challenge. I hired a personal trainer to help me navigate this unfamiliar territory. Committing to just two days a week, I found having a PT kept me accountable and motivated. The variety in workouts kept boredom at bay, and I enjoyed the challenge of pushing my physical limits.

This journey into resistance training not only built my strength but also shattered preconceived notions about what I could or couldn’t do. It reminded me of the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone and trying new things. The experience was empowering, making me feel the strongest I had in years and instilling a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Indulging My Love of Learning

One of the most exciting aspects of my sabbatical was diving back into learning. I decided to pursue a certification in health and mental fitness coaching. This decision was born from a long-standing passion for health and wellbeing that had been growing alongside my financial career. I was already devouring books, podcasts, and conversations about wellness, but formalizing this interest into a new career path was exhilarating.

The coursework and new connections I made with like-minded individuals in the health coaching community were invigorating. I felt a renewed sense of purpose, growth, and empowerment. The science of lifestyle medicine was fascinating and I found myself eager to apply this knowledge through the power of coaching to help others. My strength of curiosity, was reignited! This path not only healed me but also offered a way to support others in avoiding the pitfalls of burnout.

Reflecting and Moving Forward

My sabbatical was unplanned, born from necessity, but it turned into a period of profound transformation. The lessons I learned about slowing down, building strength, and indulging in learning have set me on a new path. I reconnected with myself, healed, and discovered new passions that aligned with my core values.

This year off wasn’t just a break; it was a journey that redefined my life. It taught me the importance of listening to my body, embracing new challenges, and continuously seeking knowledge. If you were given a year off, what would you indulge in? What passions or interests would you explore? Sometimes, the most unplanned detours lead to the most fulfilling destinations.

Take a moment to think about it. Embrace the unexpected, and you might just find a new, more meaningful direction for your life.