Time out to tune in: Finding clarity and purpose – Time to explore and to understand what truly matters
Taking a sabbatical allowed me to step out of my comfort zone, travel with purpose, and reconnect with what truly matters—gaining resilience, new perspectives, and a deeper appreciation for life’s simple joys.
When my company announced layoffs about a year ago, I saw it as an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone, slow down, and explore new options.
After several weeks of preparation, I went backpacking through Asia 🎒🌏, not just as a tourist but to immerse myself in the culture. I also aimed to make an impact by engaging in non-profit activities, such as volunteering, which helped me rediscover my teaching skills (below there is an attached image when teaching 👨🏫 English to children in Thailand ).
Immersion, Volunteering, and Adventure During the Sabbatical
During this time, I experienced not only amazing moments and unforgettable memories but also challenging times when I had doubts, missed my loved ones, and felt alone—especially when my health was fragile.
Of course, not everything was about traveling. Once I returned (and recovered), I engaged in several time-consuming personal projects, sought new motivations, enhanced my skills and perspective, discovered new activities, read books, enjoyed the calm, and, most importantly, spent quality time with my family and friends.
Taking a sabbatical was a purposeful and enriching experience that made me more resilient and stronger in so many ways. Stepping away from work after a decade of non-stop working allowed me to take a deep breath, get to know myself better, and appreciate the value of simple things. It’s interesting how, when you slow down or face challenges, the truly important things have space to emerge.
Clarity and Purpose During the Sabbatical
The experience was indescribable—words can’t fully capture its essence. Today, I feel leveled up, and ready for new professional adventures with renewed motivation and fresh ideas.
Sabbatical Activities
– Volunteerings; farming, teaching, building,..
– Discover the culture and travel along Asia
– Van life in the north of Spain
– Sports; Scuba diving, acroyoga, climbing, hiking, surf…
– Resting
– Spending time with the people I love
– Rediscovering the place where I live
– Get closer to nature
– Read books
– Take care of my health
– Study about Accessibility
– Start new abilities such as playing guitar 🎸
– Music festivals
– Improve my language skills
– Write my feelings
– Work on myself through therapy
How long was your sabbatical?
52 Weeks
What Catalyzed your Sabbatical?
Layoff at my former company
What were you most concerned about when contemplating a sabbatical?
– Money (it’ll cost too much!)
– Optics (what will people think of me?!)
– Responsibilities
Did HOW you work change at all, post-sabbatical?
Committed to taking significantly more time off
What kind of work did you return to?
Different company, similar role
Describe any changes you made in your life post-sabbatical:
Living in the countryside, living with less stress.
Why do you think others should (or shouldn’t) take sabbaticals? Are there occasions in life where it’s particularly helpful?
Taking a sabbatical can be an incredibly valuable experience, offering a unique chance to pause and gain perspective on life. It allows you to reset, to step back from daily routines and pressures, giving you space to reflect on your goals and make more thoughtful, informed decisions.Furthermore, it can help you to understand what truly matters and explore new paths, whether it’s a career change, a personal project, or even a shift in lifestyle. A sabbatical is more than just a break—it’s an investment in your well-being and future direction.
You can connect with Oscar Barba Here.Interested in more traveling sabbatical stories? Check out Kristen’s Story.
