Stepping Easily Back into the Grind
Extending a transition period helps combat feelings of despair and lethargy during a sabbatical.
Düsseldorf (dpa/tmn) - A career break may seem far removed from work life, but re-entry requires a gentle approach. Sabbatical coach Nina Kuhlmann advises a "transition period" before diving back in. Use this time to reflect on your experiences and discussions, preventing a post-sabbatical slump.
As Kuhlmann puts it, neglecting reflection could lead to a bout of gloom, feeling overwhelmed by the end of the fantastic break and returning to the daily grind.
Embrace Sabbatical Remnants at Work
Small tools can facilitate a smooth transition. Kuhlmann recommends holding onto routines, habits, or rituals cultivated during your sabbatical as a way to maintain that break's impact on your first day back.
Consider adopting a specific morning routine, dedicating time for exercise, or integrating daily meditation. Kuhlmann also suggests scheduling mini-breaks throughout your day to mimic the sabbatical vibe and boost productivity.
Keeping up the Good Habits
- If healthy routines (e.g., exercise, meditation) were adopted during the break, it's crucial to maintain these practices to ease the shift back into work.
- Boost well-being by continuing activities like spending time with loved ones or savoring a good book.
Returnship Opportunities
- Look for returnship programs, resembling internships, which aid in reacquainting with work and enhancing skills.
- discover career returner programs offered by companies like Virgin Media O2 for a smoother transition back into the workforce.
Focus on Personal Development
- Engage in volunteer work to sharpen skills and expand professional connections.
- Enroll in refresher courses or acquire certifications relevant to your desired role for continued learning.
Network and Seek Guidance
- Reach out to specialized recruiting firms and organizations like iRelaunch for assistance re-entering the workforce.
- Leverage college career counselors, even as alumni, for guidance and networking opportunities.
Prepare for the Job Hunt
- Update your resume and LinkedIn profile, emphasizing any relevant activities or skills developed during your career break.
- Engage in interview preparation workshops or practice with friends to boost confidence.
Consider Flexible Work Arrangements
- Seek companies offering flexible work arrangements that cater to balancing work and personal responsibilities.
By incorporating these strategies, you can smoothly return to the workforce while preserving some of the beneficial habits acquired during your sabbatical.
- To ease the shift back into work, it's crucial to maintain healthy routines like exercise and meditation that were adopted during the break.
- Boost well-being by continuing activities like spending time with loved ones or savoring a good book beyond the sabbatical.
- Seek returnship programs, resembling internships, or engage in volunteer work to sharpen skills, expand professional connections, and better prepare for the job hunt.
