Recession is good time for a sabbatical

Instead of enjoying the success of his movie Dev D, Abhay Deol chose to head to the US to pursue a course in metal work and carpentry. iTALK tells you how it might be a good idea to head off on a journey of self-discovery, especially during this recession

Haven't we all shot imaginary darts of envy at those who head off to travel the world, or zero in on a foreign university to pursue a fancy degree. Well, hold those arrows, and start planning your own sabbatical. And even though the economic gloomu00a0 is casting a dark pallor on everything, this could be the best time for you to take off on a rejuvenation trip.

What is a sabbatical?

The word sabbatical is derived from the Greek word Sabbatikos and from the Hebrew Sabbath. It refers to an extended absence from your career to take a break or achieve a particular goal, like writing a book, travelling or studying further.

Our hectic schedules let us lose sight of what we really wanted out of life. In such cases, a sabbatical helps you focus and narrow down on the real goals of your life. Even with the onset of recession,u00a0 a sabbatical is a good idea, if you use it constructively. And if you are one of the unlucky few who've lost their jobs, drop the sulk, and make the most of your time off.

Seema Hingorrany, Clinical Psychologist and Corporate Trainer says anyone can take a hiatus provided they don't waste it worrying about their future and feeling depressed. "If you are stressed, it makes perfect sense to take a sabbatical since your productivity has hit am all time low. But be sure to measure the situation before taking a decision." Hingorrany says a hiatus is a perfect opportunity to sort out jumbled thoughts. The main purpose of a sabbatical is to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. "It enhances your memory and boosts concentration," she says.

Meditate, upgrade your skills

During your break, make sure you don't while away time. Meditate, learn new skills, take up a hobby, check out job websites and network with people. These seemingly simple activities boost your cognitive skills. "Even baking a cake is a great idea, since it releases feel-good endorphins that lead to creative de-stressing," says Hingorrany.

You can use the time to upgrade your skills for future interviews. Hingorrany feels it's easier to ask for a paid sabbatical now, than a few decades ago. "People know what they want and are articulate about it. They share a friendlier relationship with their bosses, who realise that productivity suffers if an employee is unhappy."

It is essential to figure out why you need the hiatus and what are you going to do during the break, before you take one. Consider your finances as well. Will you be able to manage without the monthly cheque?

Make sure you don't treat your sabbatical like a long holiday from work. During a long break, your mind is still at work trying to plan vacations and family excursions. Inu00a0 the case of a sabbatical, you should give your mind and body a rest, indulging in self-discovery and introspection.

During a sabbatical, don't stop networking

Here are some must dos and dont's when on a sabbatical:
>>Do not sit and moan over your troubles; it will leave you depressed.
>>Don't be out of touch with your firm; you never know when you might need a job again.
>>Socialise, network.
>>Take up a hobby class or sport that you would never find the time for, otherwise.
>>Don't be a control freak. You are on a break, it's okay to do things at your own pace.
>>Keep a daily journal.

Companies do not view breaks favourably

Preeti Swamy Khare, Consultant, Maars Private Limited, a people consulting company based in Mumbai
Company heads aren't going to be excited to see a break on your CV. Those who are retrenched are not considered as employees on a sabbatical, by most firms.

If you use your sabbatical constructively, there are lesser chances that your next employer will be put off. But you need to convince him about the reasons behind your break. At the time of hiring, employers will consider your work experience and educational qualifications. If you have those in place, you won't have a tough time.

During your break, indulge in activities that concern your work. In conservative industries, it sounds better if you took a break to pursue education than learn yoga.

They took a sabbatical and...

She found it tough getting a job again

Charmi Rijhwani Manager with a travel agency
I used to work for a travel agency and took a year-long sabbatical when I was expecting my son. When I was ready to get back to working full-time, I started looking out, but realised I was up against a wall. It was hard finding the profile I wanted. It was only after four months that I got a freelancing job with an agency. I'd suggest you think twice before
taking a break.

After a year, whenu00a0 I started looking again, it was tough landing the sort of profile I wanted

She's studying hard to pursue an MBA

Rhea Angom, Student
I quit my job as a client servicing executive since my qualifications did not match the profile I was given. I had a degree in Literature, and I realised that I needed to study further. Better skills andu00a0 higher education help get a better job. I have spent the last year studying, attending classes, and applying to various colleges. At times, it gets frustrating that I don't have a steady job, but it's something you need to deal with positively. It helps that I have financial assistance and am only 23.

I quit my job as a client servicing executive since my qualifications did not match the job

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