Are you currently debating whether to take some time out and see more of the world? Need some convincing that it is the right decision?
Maybe you are working a job you don’t enjoy, want a change of scenery to espcape a routine, or you just have the urge to escape and travel the world, there are so many benefits of taking a career break.
There are also so many things you can do on a career break, from sightseeing, relaxing, taking part in activities to volunteering – the choice is yours!
Check out 10 reasons why I highly recommend taking a career break or sabbatical.
1. Explore the World
The world really is your oyster and there are so many different places you can go. From world famous cities, to lesser known off the beaten track destinations, there places for everywhere. I recently wrote a guide to the best places to visit on a gap year which you might want to read.
2. Reflect
Whatever your reason for considering a taking time out, working a normal 9-5 is hard work and it will be good to take time out to reflect on what you want to do next. Maybe this experience will help you to decide that the career you are in isn’t for you and this time away will help give you the impetus to change direction.
3. Have Fun
Not much compares to travelling, it certainly beats a normal routine working a job with little satisfaction. Everyday can be a new exciting adventure.
4. Learn New Skills
Travel really is one of the best forms of education, you’ll learn so much. You are never too old to learn new skills and time abroad is perfect to add both personal and professional experience. If you are considering a different career so you could take an internship overseas. You might also like to view this article with career break and gap year ideas.
5. Gain Independence
You will be heading out to explore the world without anyone to supervise you. Scary? Or finally the freedom you need?
6. Make Lifelong Friends
You will meet so many people from all walks of life and from all around the world. Some might become the closest friends you’ll ever have. Traveling and sharing amazing experiences with people makes you become close.
7. Create Magical Memories
A career break is the perfect way to create amazing memories, you will see and do stuff you wouldn’t normally be able to do.
8. Never too Old to Travel
Don’t get the misconception that its only school leavers who travel the world, loads of older gappers are also exploring. So many people are in similar situations, fed up of jobs or home, and looking to ignite the spark. you have finished uni this is a time when you will have little or no commitments.
9. Do Something Beneficial
As well as travelling, there are so many rewarding things you can do including volunteering. You could use your skills to help in places like Africa, Asia and South America, teaching, coaching sports, helping communities, contributing to medical efforts or improving conservation efforts.
These positions are rewarding but can be challenging. This is a fantastic opportunity to give back and help people whilst experiencing living abroad. Joining volunteer programs is an amazing way to help and especially if you are passionate about people, wildlife and the environment.
International participants are needed in countries like Thailand, Mexico, Kenya, South Africa and Cambodia all year round. These programs are a wonderful opportunity to help.
10. No Regrets
Life is too short to have any regrets, the only way you will know if you like it will be by booking a tour or trip abroad.
How to Plan a Career Break
You could research a trip independently and book everything by yourself, or go with a travel company who can help you to book experiences around the world. Websites I recommend include:
• One World 365 – A travel directory with thousands of ideas.
• Gap Year World – Find companies offering gap year and career break travel opportunities.
• Book My TEFL Course – Get qualified to teach English abroad.
• Seasonal Jobs Abroad – Find temporary and short term work around the globe.
