Embracing the Power of Pause: My Sabbatical Journey
Today, I want to share a deeply personal and transformative experience that has reshaped my approach to leadership and life. As many of you know, leading a sustainable social enterprise is a journey filled with both triumphs and challenges. In our recent podcast episode, I delved into the significance of taking a sabbatical—a concept that has profoundly impacted my well-being and effectiveness as a leader.
The Catalyst for Change
The idea of a sabbatical came to me after a series of intense events, including a merger in my company and a family member's surgery. These experiences left me grappling with persistent fatigue and fear, the "two quiet killers of leadership" that we discussed in a previous episode. Recognizing the need for a break, I decided to take two months off from public engagements, including Zoom meetings and recordings, to prioritize my personal well-being.
Redefining Routine
During my sabbatical, I made a conscious effort to disrupt my habitual patterns. I changed my daily routes, engaged in new activities, and took on additional household responsibilities while caring for my husband post-surgery. These changes provided a sense of fulfillment and helped me break free from the monotony of my routine.
Emotional and Mental Shifts
Emotionally, the decision to take a sabbatical was challenging. I questioned whether I should continue my work and grappled with the fear of losing momentum. However, this period of reflection reaffirmed my commitment to my calling. I learned to let go of attachment to outcomes, understanding that while I can control my actions, I cannot dictate others' responses. This realization brought a newfound sense of freedom and energy.
Mentally, I experienced moments of fog and difficulty concentrating, reminiscent of past health challenges. However, practicing gratitude and appreciation helped me maintain a positive mindset. I also realized the importance of a gradual transition back into work, rather than an abrupt return to previous routines.
Practical Tips for Taking a Sabbatical
For those contemplating a sabbatical, here are some practical tips that helped me:
- Identify Essential Tasks: Determine the minimum essential tasks required to keep your enterprise operational.
- Delegate Responsibilities: Trust your team and delegate responsibilities to ensure continuity.
- Flexible Start and End Dates: Establish flexible start and end dates for your sabbatical to accommodate unforeseen circumstances.
- Gradual Re-engagement: Ease back into work gradually to avoid overwhelming yourself.
Reflections and Gratitude
Looking back, there are a few things I would do differently in future sabbaticals. I would refrain from outreach efforts during the break and not feel guilty about asking others to wait for responses. I am immensely grateful for the support I received during my time away, which allowed me to experience positive changes post-sabbatical, including improved boundaries with technology, clarity regarding priorities, and increased energy and focus.
The Importance of Self-Care
As social entrepreneurs, our work is driven by passion and purpose. However, it is crucial to recognize the importance of self-care. Taking time for rest and reflection can lead to greater effectiveness and fulfillment in our work. If you are contemplating a pause or sabbatical, I encourage you to reach out for support. Remember, taking time for yourself is not a sign of weakness but a testament to your commitment to sustainable leadership.
Thank you for being part of this journey with me. Let’s continue to support each other in creating impactful and sustainable social enterprises.
You can watch or simply listen to the full episode here: https://www.trishabaileyphd.com/ep-57
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