Dreaming of a Sabbatical: How to keep working and stay healthy
Long days and a combination of lockdown and a stress-induced pandemic have given way to the new burnout
Make a structure that works for you and stick to it
Unless you’re a doctor, that email at 7pm can wait
Accessorise your workstation with objects that make you happy, make it a pleasant space
Don’t burn your bridges
Rather than in the great exit where many of us find ourselves, we can find joy in modifying the minuscule daily tasks to create a less abrupt solution for relief. Instead of quitting your job cold turkey, try for instance to clock out of work and be finished. Really finished. Don’t go back for that email; if it’s after hours, be decisive on how you spend your free time, just as much as your work time.
One wise manager said: “If you’re not a doctor and no one’s dying, then the email can wait”. This advice comes with a disclaimer ‒ it should be taken only after hours, of course. If you’re feeling burnt out, try to modify your hours to find a structure that works for you. When your hours are finished, turn off the computer and pursue your hobbies and interests. Go for a walk, learn a new language, create a dream vacation board ‒ look for things that make you happy. Surround yourself with a pleasant workspace and make sure to take proper breaks.
We are all guilty of eating at our desks or working extra hours to make the boss happy. Whilst these are good intentions, our internal system does have a breaking point, and replenishing it can help you endure burnout.
Evaluate your goals
Follow the S.M.A.R.T. goals system. The acronym means each goal should be Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-Bound. Accomplishing goals involves implementing and executing clear objectives. Set for yourself tangible goals that you know you have the potential to attain. If you realise your goals are maybe too ambitious or burdensome, it may be prudent to evaluate more attainable objectives.
This doesn’t mean you’re underperforming, in fact having a realistic goal means you aren’t going to exhaust your resources or focus on the wrong things. Running a startup is like commanding an enormous ship; you may want to make it through difficult waters to get to your goal, but is that going to be good for the entire crew and boat? Look at your map, resources, time, and admirably navigate your course.
You’re going to go through obstacles that will test your potential. Your commitment to your team is just as valuable as your employees’ commitment to you. Look for daily strategies that make you and your team inspired and loyal. Endure fatigue with a team you can rely on.
And don’t forget about the body, focus on exercise and personal health just as much as your project objectives. A healthy mind also comes from a healthy approach to a general wellbeing.
Take time for yourself
If you do decide to take a sabbatical, make sure you don’t burn all your bridges. Do remain in contact with your network because let’s face it, you will probably have to return to your project or team, and you want to keep your colleagues on your side just in case.
Make use of your sabbatical time by volunteering or writing a book or just rest your mind so that you’re fresh when you’re back. Life tends to come in phases, there’s a time to rest and a time to work. Make the most of your life by setting goals for yourself, find a balance between work and fun, and try to be open with your colleagues or fellow startuppers who may be more helpful than you think.
