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BouncyWalrus
BouncyWalrus
Stealth

Considering a career break

I have been working for the past 8 years and have had a good career so far with a degree from a great college. However i have been feeling very burnt out recently and I'm losing the motivation to do things on my own.

I am considering taking a break for a few months (3-6). I have good savings and minimal debt. My spouse has a stable job so i may be able to afford it.

I want to use this time to just do nothing for a while, take a few courses and pursue some hobbies. Maybe travel a little bit.

I want to also use this time to figure out how to break the loop of getting to a burnout stage.

Has anyone ever done something like this? What has your experience been like?

21mo ago
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SnoozyWaffle
SnoozyWaffle
Stealth21mo

Just complete my first month of break, I took time off to manage mental and physical health. I think its worth it. I have some savings, and I am hoping I'll get a job when I apply. I have 8 YOE with ~4 as a PM.

BouncyWalrus
BouncyWalrus
Stealth21mo

I am in product also and have a similar breakdown.

Can you elaborate a little on how you came to this decision?

I'm also nervous about the job market out there and wondering if it will be worse when i choose to interview again.

SnoozyWaffle
SnoozyWaffle
Stealth21mo

I'll be honest I was having a hard time being productive, adding value, health was in tatters and self confidence in the dumps. I decided to prioritise these first. Was okay to focus on upskilling and take a break to give myself the space and time to address these things.

The fear of not getting any job is there, but i am ok taking that risk because it would have been terrible for me to stay. I don't have dependents as of now which is helpful. I've realized I'm able to think outside the 9-5 grind too. Got diagnosed with a neurological condition which i have started to manage too. Otherwise it could have been worse.

FloatingTaco
FloatingTaco
Wayfair21mo

I took a break due to personal reasons and also because my health had hit an all time low.
2 months off and i feel better in terms of clarity of thought, creativity and disruptive thinking.
We seriously need to stop the hustle culture and look at slow yet sustainable growth to avoid burning ourselves to make some venture capitalist richer

MagicalDumpling
MagicalDumpling
Stealth21mo

Genuinely glad to see more and more people prioritizing personal space and hood health over the stupid hustle culture.

Dont worry, you will be in a much better shape once you come back. Also, use this time to prioritize things that you want to do.

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