8 steps to make the best out of your career break

It took me almost two years and all my savings to take a 2 year career break. 3 months have gone and I have an uncomfortable feeling that I am missing the target. Specifically, I am falling into the same overwork traps as before, the only difference is that now I have no salary and no company to blame. The good news is that I have isolated the problem and identified the root.

So how did I deal with it ?

8 steps to make the best out of a career break:

1. Make a shortlist of the must-achieve at any price (e.g. learn Chinese).

2. Assign time slots.

3. Stick to your plan -> do it -> make it real.

4. Shut up the manager’s voice in your head and let it talk every three months at most if you cannot avoid it.

5. Remember daily that it was your decision to take a break and that you worked hard and successfully to earn this break. It’s a reward to be enjoyed.

6. Don’t be afraid.

7. Don't feel guilty.

8. Remember to smile and be thankful.

I hope these simple steps will help those of you facing the same issues or help those asking themselves how it is on the other side of the job market.

Written on 6th December 2013

#CareerBreak #Salary #JobMarket