Now that 2024 has wrapped up and we’re already a few weeks into 2025, I’d like to share a chapter of my life I haven’t discussed publicly before: last year, I spent nine months on a self-imposed career break. For someone who had been working almost nonstop for nine years—sometimes more than 40 hours a week—it was both a bold decision and a transformative experience. This sabbatical significantly boosted my life satisfaction without derailing my career. If anything, it enhanced it.
I hope my story provides insight into the possibilities and pitfalls of taking an intentional break from work.
Background
Before joining Google, I’d technically never been employed in the classic sense. Since 2014, I’ve been self-employed, offering consulting and software development services—generally for one or two clients at a time. In 2024, however, I decided to step back from external obligations entirely. Instead, I focused on personal projects and goals that I’d long dreamed of pursuing but never found the time or energy for.
Key Opportunities During My Break
- Landed My Dream Job at Google
For the longest time, I felt I never had enough time to properly prepare for a Google recruitment process. During my break, I dedicated myself to interview prep. I applied, interviewed, and—joyfully—succeeded. - Built an MVP for My Startup Idea
I’d been dreaming of a project for three years, but never found the bandwidth to really work on it. Thanks to recent AI advancements, my development pace increased beyond what I ever thought possible. - Rediscovered My Love for Programming
After years of doing the same type of work, I wasn’t exactly “burned out”, but my passion was fading. This break changed that. I found myself coding just for fun, and my excitement for software development returned in full force. - Returned to Competitive Programming
I dived back into contests like Everybody Codes, Potyczki Algorytmiczne, and CodeForces. I even revisited my favorite math book, Concrete Mathematics by Ronald L. Graham, Donald E. Knuth, and Oren Patashnik. - Focused on Health and Fitness
I finally managed to bench-press 1.2× my body weight—a personal milestone I’m quite proud of. - Reconnected with Loved Ones
By stepping away from constant professional obligations, I had the emotional bandwidth and time to deepen relationships with family and friends. This was an invaluable aspect of my sabbatical, providing balance and perspective. - Embraced Personal Growth
I became more relaxed and self-aware, crossing off items on my personal “Someday/Maybe” list—then creating and completing brand-new ones. Having the freedom to explore interests without a traditional work schedule was profoundly liberating.
Risks and Challenges
Of course, taking a career break wasn’t without its risks:
- Financial Planning
Living off savings for nine months can be stressful without careful budgeting and the right life circumstances. I was fortunate to have savings and a lifestyle that allowed me to go without income for a while. - Maintaining Skills
Time without client projects could have dulled my technical skills. Staying active through personal projects and competitive programming was crucial to keep my edge. - Job Search Stigma
Some employers still see résumé gaps as red flags. Luckily, others recognize the value of productive time off. - Social Pressure
Although my loved ones were supportive, they also worried. Reassuring them required patience and confidence in my decision.
Literature That Helped
- The 100-Year Life by Lynda Gratton
This book expanded my perspective on multi-stage careers. It gave me the confidence to treat my sabbatical as a springboard for long-term career health, rather than a setback. - Getting Things Done by David Allen
I first read it eight years ago and revisited it during my break. It helped me organize my goals, stay effective, and manage the stress of “not doing” some things while being fully committed to others.
Key Takeaways
- Work-Life Balance is Personal
For some, it means strict 40-hour workweeks. For others, it’s cycles of intense work followed by extended breaks. Both are valid if they align with your personal and professional needs. - Career Breaks Can Be Productive
I found new perspectives, sharpened my skills, and landed a role at Google. The break didn’t derail my career—in many ways, it enhanced it. - Planning is Crucial
Financial stability and a clear vision of what you want to accomplish during your break can make all the difference.
Final Thoughts
I’m not suggesting everyone should take a lengthy career break—but my own experience underscores how fulfilling and career-enhancing such a pause can be when approached thoughtfully. It reignited my passion for software development, helped me secure a dream role, and enriched my personal life in ways traditional work rhythms often don’t allow.
Have you ever considered taking a career break?
What would you work on if you had several months solely dedicated to personal and professional growth?
I’d love to hear your perspectives or any similar experiences you’ve had. Also, feel free to comment or reach out directly if you have questions! Here’s to continuously shaping our careers in ways that make us happier, healthier, and more fulfilled!
This article was originally published on my LinkedIn on January 21, 2025. See the original post here.