Thinking about taking a career gap? Here’s how you can take it without any guilt holding you back.
Employment Gap refers to the time period when a person is not employed at any job. It could be for weeks, months, and even years. The corporate industry frowns on the concept of the employment gap. There is a stigma around it that stops many people from taking the leap. But is this stigma legit?
There could be numerous reasons why a person might have to take an employment gap like career burnout, higher studies, medical/personal reasons, childcare, traveling, etc.
An employment gap allows you to detach yourself from the workforce and explore different avenues. It can help you to heal and experience life differently. It gives you the freedom and time to understand if you want to go back to the same career path or look for something new.
It could be for anything from 6 months, a year, or more.
But it is not as easy as it sounds. Most people, even your parents and closest friends, might not understand your decision. They might call you insane for leaving a “well-paid” job without any offer in hand. There will only be a few people willing to stand by you as you take this step. You must brace yourself for the negative comments and remember the reason you decided to take the step in the first place. However, with a proper support system, things can be easier for you.
If executed well, this gap year(s) can be a life-changing experience for you. You might come up with answers you have been looking for and start the new chapter of life soon after.
Reasons to take an employment gap-
1. If you are experiencing career burnout and are mentally and physically stressed at work. Toxic work environments can also contribute to this.
2. You don’t believe your current job is a good fit for you. You wish to take time to explore a new career path.
3. You want to take on the entrepreneurial path and need time to sort your idea, planning, and execution.
4. You want to travel and live through the experiences.
5. You want to take time off for personal reasons, such as caring for children or elderly parents or working on your marriage with your spouse.
…etc.
Here’s how to take an employment gap-
1. Think It Through: Ask yourself why you absolutely need to take a gap. Is it something you can’t work out on long leave or sabbatical? Make a decision after consulting with your trusted friends/mentors.
2. Prepare yourself mentally: Get ready for infinite why and how questions. Also, don’t try to justify your decision to everyone. Focus on what’s coming ahead.
3. Plan out your finances: Cut down your expenses and save at least for the next 12 months or more (for emergencies).
4. Talk to your current manager: Have a one-on-one conversation with your manager to explain your situation. Leave on a good note.
5. Have realistic expectations: Accept that there’s a high chance you might not be able to figure everything out by the end of this gap. Things might happen slowly, but don’t be disappointed.
Many people dread the question of the employment gap, as they prepare to rejoin the workforce. The best thing to do here is, to be honest, and explain the reason in two-three sentences. You can also highlight your learnings during this period and how it helped you as a person.
Remember, there’s nothing wrong with taking a gap between your career. It can give you a much-needed break to put things into perspective and you can get back whenever you are ready. An employment gap is totally normal. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
A little question for all our women readers. Has your assertiveness at work ever been taken as aggression where people asked you to calm down? If yes, then read this blog to know why this happens. You can also check out our other blogs on the website.
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Image credits: freepik