A dream sabbatical to experience the world using a wheelchair
I am a former Fortune 500 executive, currently on a professional career sabbatical and I’m out to experience the world. My goal is to visit every UN member country – a lifelong dream finally coming true. Oh, and I use a wheelchair!
The newfound confidence I have in myself made my sabbatical all worth it!
Describe any changes you made in your life post-sabbatical:
Complete career change and general improvement in physical and emotional well-being.
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What catalyzed your sabbatical?:
- Someone I knew took one
- Negative event – death of a loved one, health/burnout, job loss, etc.
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List some activities you engaged in during your sabbatical:
I am traveling the world and have since made it a mission to see all 195 countries (a lifelong dream that I never thought I’d actually complete)
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Tell us about your sabbatical:
I was burnt out and struggling with the ethics of corporate America. I decided that my life and morals were not worth the big paycheck and fought my fear to take a year-long sabbatical. I am more confident than ever and have clarity on what I want to do with my future career to feel more impactful. The fear is the worst part; the indescribable rewards are the best part. If you can get through the fear and anxiety, and take the big jump, your life will be better in more ways than I can describe.
Describe the impact of your sabbatical in one sentence:
I am so confident in myself, my relationships, and the path my life is on now.
How long was your sabbatical (in weeks)?
52
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Why do you think others should (or shouldn’t) take sabbaticals? Are there occasions in life where it’s particularly helpful?
Everyone should absolutely take a sabbatical! It is the most life-altering moment I’ve ever had and I am a better person because of it. Of course, it needs to make financial sense, and for me, I was struggling with things in my career, so it was the perfect time. Everyone has a different series of life events, and we all handle them differently, so the right occasion will always be different for everyone. Follow your gut – not your hesitation – and do it when it’s right for you!
Interested in more stories about executives on sabbatical? Check out Justin and Allison’s story here.
