Prioritizing before embarking on a sabbatical leave is essential.
Article: Ready for a Getaway? Here's What You Need to Know Before Embarking on a Job Sabbatical
Ready to ditch the daily grind and embark on a worldwide adventure, crank out that long-awaited house project, or simply take a much-needed breather? More and more employees dream of a break from work, but planning and executing a sabbatical isn't always a walk in the park. Here are some tips from the pros on what to consider while planning your escape.
What Exactly is a Sabbatical?
Coach Nina Kuhlmann, who specializes in sabbaticals, defines it as "mindful career time off." A sabbatical is generally a professional hiatus that can serve as a rejuvenating vacation, personal reflection, or educational opportunity. "The intentional aspect is crucial. Before the break, you should consider: What should be different or better after the sabbatical compared to before?" says Kuhlmann. It's worth noting that there's no defined length for a sabbatical, but for Kuhlmann, it typically starts at two months or more.
Finding the Guts to Take the Leap
Overcoming the fear and finding the courage to voice your desires is one of the significant challenges in planning a sabbatical, according to Kuhlmann. She suggests discussing your plans with like-minded individuals and sharing your ideas with supportive people. "In Germany, safety is a big issue. Fear of the unknown or potential change can be present, but it can be calmed," says Kuhlmann.
Visualizing your dream sabbatical or delving into the culture, music, or cuisine of your preferred destination can help you overcome mental blocks. "Imagining and feeling ourselves in our desired sabbatical can help our minds make the leap and create intrinsic motivation," notes the coach.
Models to Consider
Some companies have sabbaticals as part of their corporate culture and offer corresponding time-off programs, making it an easier and more comfortable choice. This option has the advantage of a well-defined financial and insurance framework.
Medium and large corporations may have lifetime accounts where you can save overtime or convert vacation and holiday money into time off. This gives you a clear idea of your accumulated free time, making it easy to plan your sabbatical accordingly.
Another option is a part-time model, where you work for three years and get a paid year off (75% of your salary for four years).
In this arrangement, social security contributions continue to run through the employer during the sabbatical. Unpaid leaves of absence, such as during an unpaid vacation, may be available but usually lack the time to save money, Kuhlmann points out. Those choosing this model should ensure they have sufficient funds for living expenses, health insurance, and other costs.
Talking to Your Employer
"Start by putting yourself in your manager's shoes and ask yourself what benefits they could receive if you're not there for a while," says Kuhlmann. While it may seem bizarre, taking a break can have advantages for the company beyond classic professional development, such as enhancing language skills, gaining new perspectives, or returning full of energy.
Building confidence is crucial, says Kuhlmann. Rather than approaching with a begging attitude, show respect but also assertiveness. Threatening to resign should be used sparingly as a subtle suggestion: "No one likes to be pressured," she explains.
Financing Your Adventure
Finding the funds to finance your sabbatical is often the biggest obstacle when planning a career break. The amount you need depends on the length of your break and your plans during that time.
It's essential to have a clear understanding of your income and expenses before taking a break, advises Kuhlmann. A household budget book or budgeting apps can help you keep track of your finances. To reach your savings goals, consider cutting expenses like streaming services or insurance plans that can be reduced or eliminated. Renting out your home during your travels may also help you earn some extra cash.
Legal Considerations
Employees generally have no legal right to a leave of absence beyond the standard vacation, says labor lawyer Bernhard Kinold. Consent from the employer is therefore fundamental. Key points to consider include the length of the sabbatical and job security.
Attorney Kinold warns against a verbal agreement, noting that the complex legal aspects of sabbaticals require a written contract. Consulting a legal expert may be helpful in drafting the agreement.
Ongoing Expenses and Insurance
Insurance coverage is crucial since health insurance may lapse during your break, depending on the model you choose. Those who take unpaid leave for their sabbatical will likely have to pay their own health and long-term care insurance premiums during this time.
Before heading out, make sure you have a plan for securing your employment-related benefits, including any accumulated working time credit that can be used for your break.
Regardless of your chosen model, potential disruptions such as illness or termination of the employment contract should always be considered in your planning, advises Kinold.
Sources: ntv.de, Anke Dankers, dpa
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During a sabbatical, one might consider indulging in self-development activities such as lifestyle improvements or education, alongside the much-needed relaxation. It's crucial for the employee to discuss their sabbatical plans with their employer, emphasizing potential benefits for both parties and seeking a written agreement to ensure job security.
After the sabbatical, employees should aim to return with fresh perspectives, enhanced language skills, and a renewed sense of energy to contribute positively to their careers, in line with the intentional aspect of a sabbatical as defined by career coach Nina Kuhlmann.
