Curious by nature, I'm drawn to open roads and the adventure they provide. No surprise that I left my native US after college, spending the next 30 years working overseas. Granted, it wasn't always stable. I've found myself "in between" jobs on 5 occasions. I would use the time off to do the things I love. As a result, I would move to my next job with new energy and focus.

In retrospect, I needed these breaks. I'd been working in large companies with intensive cultures (Expedia, Microsoft, Samsung), and found myself burning out from late hours and constant stress. In many ways, the career breaks made me "whole" again.

Going further, I found the most rewarding time spent was when I had a clear self-development goal. Whether that be learning Italian, taking golf lessons or getting a wine certification. It required more time, but was ultimately far more fulfilling than a short vacation.

While there's plenty of research on the merits of taking a sabbatical from work, when it comes down to planning a sabbatical, there aren't many resources. You're on your own to piece together a program, with many moving parts and a lack of support at your destination.

In short, I believe in the power of taking time off from work to re-energize. Fortunately, more companies feel the same way, and are putting policies in place. My company is designed to help professionals plan these rewarding but rare opportunities down to the finest detail.

If you're considering a sabbatical, then let's chat!