Understanding Career Breaks: A Leap of Faith or Necessity?

Career breaks are often misunderstood. They range from transitions due to injury or personal health issues to periods dedicated to self-discovery and re-evaluation. This article explores the experiences of two individuals who took career breaks, the reasons behind their decisions, and the long-term benefits they found.

Transitioning from Social Services to Customer Service

Let's start with the story of an individual who worked in social services but faced a career-ending injury. While social services required physical stamina, their accident led to torn muscles and significant knee injuries, making it impossible for them to continue in that field. They needed to lift at least 70 pounds and wear a brace while lifting over 50 pounds. Despite the physical challenges, they found inspiration in a different direction.

Through extensive research and exploration, the individual decided to shift their career focus to customer service. They explored several roles, including tech support for Apple products, Turbo Tax, and various phone, internet, and cable companies. Each role offered unique experiences, and they documented their likes and dislikes, creating a job wish list.

They actively sought out job opportunities through LinkedIn and various job search apps. They attended multiple job fairs, regularly interviewing to gain insights into different professions. This process helped them refine their job preferences and set clear boundaries for their ideal work environment.

The Stress of a Career Break Down Personal Reevaluation

Another individual, at the age of 30, took a career break due to stress and overwork. This break was not just about the job but about mental and physical well-being. They embarked on an adventure to the East, eventually reaching the Pacific Ocean. Although this journey was both enlightening and financially draining, it brought them to a pivotal realization.

The experience of being targeted for being a "nice guy" and the subsequent financial stress led them to question their career path. They had always dreamed of becoming an educator, and this break allowed them to re-evaluate their true passions. Eventually, they pivoted from accounting to education, a field they had yearned to enter but never had the courage to pursue.

Lessons Learned and Future Prospects

Both stories highlight the importance of re-evaluating career choices, especially when faced with physical limitations or significant stress. Career breaks offer an opportunity for self-reflection, skill enhancement, and discovering new passions. For others considering similar paths, here are some key takeaways:

Self-Assessment: Evaluate your strengths, weaknesses, and preferences. Create a clear job wish list based on these factors. Research: Utilize online platforms and job fairs to explore different industries and roles. This can provide insights that might not be available through traditional job search methods. Networking: Engage with professionals in your desired field. Networking can provide invaluable guidance and mentorship. Regret Mitigation: Always keep the option to return to a previous field if the new one doesn't seem like a good fit. Many people work part-time in new fields while building their full-time careers. Mental Well-being: Prioritize your mental and physical health. If stress or burnout is overwhelming, consider taking a break before making significant career changes.

In conclusion, career breaks can be a challenging but ultimately rewarding journey. With careful planning, self-reflection, and a willingness to adapt, these breaks can lead to personal and professional growth, as demonstrated by the experiences shared in this article.