Thursday 13 December 2012

7 reasons to take a sabbatical – the new British obsession



Between the financial strains, the rush of work and the stress of our many deadlines, day-to-day life can really get us down. That’s why so many people are taking time away from it all to pursue a more rewarding experience on a sabbatical. With this in mind here is a look at 7 of the reasons why sabbaticals are becoming such a popular style of getaway for people right across Britain.

1.   Refresh and recharge

One of the biggest reasons people embark on a sabbatical is to combat the weariness of day-to-day life. When you’re clocking long hours at work, not to mention juggling the other areas of our life, sometimes a break away from it all is the perfect chance to recharge your batteries. 


 


2.   Learn about different cultures

One of the best things you can gain by going on a sabbatical is the chance to learn and understand different cultures. There’s no better way to appreciate a different way of living than by truly immersing yourself in the day-to-day customs of another country. From the villages of Ethiopia to the communities of Cambodia, a sabbatical is the perfect chance to understand the cultures that have always fascinated you. 





3.   Help communities in need

One of the most worthwhile sabbaticals you can embark on is a volunteering expedition to help communities in need. From teaching in Jamaica to social work in Ghana, there are countless different volunteer opportunities available around the world.

For many people, volunteering conjures up ideas of building huts, but with companies like Projects Abroad you are able to use your already established professional skills and expertise within a new environment. For instance, physiotherapists, teachers, social workers and journalists are just some of the in-demand professions currently needed to volunteer in Africa.

4.   Learn about yourself

A volunteering sabbatical is more than just your average holiday. It’s a getaway that challenges you to confront some of the world’s gravest problems, whether that’s child trafficking in Ghana or environmental degradation in Thailand. In the face of such adversity, people learn more about what sort of person they truly are and what sort of values we hold most dear.

5.   Bring skills back to your own workplace

Any old holiday can help you to relax and unwind, but few can enable employees to bring new skills back into the workplace. Sabbaticals however can do exactly that. Whether your area of expertise is in biology or childcare, seeing the challenges faced elsewhere can bring you a new sense of purpose when tackling problems at home. To find out more about how you can learn valuable workplace skills abroad, look online at www.projects-abroad-pro.org.




6.   Develop a fresh perspective

Sabbaticals offer an eye-opening and breathtaking perspective of the world around us. It’s not uncommon to come back with a newfound understanding and appreciation of life, and the motivation to always get the most out of it.

7.   Inspire the people around you

Motivated and positive attitudes are infectious. One of the real plus sides to going on a sabbatical is that your newfound perspective can also inspire the people around you, whether it’s your family, friends or even colleagues.


Resource box
Article exploring the idea of a modern sabbatical
Tips on how to take a sabbatical from work
Tourism and travel advice from one potential sabbatical destination