In today’s competitive job market, more and more professionals seek extended time away from work to recharge, pursue personal interests, or spend time with family. But if you’re considering an extended leave, how do you choose between a career break and a sabbatical? While they share some common ground, there are some key differences between these two types of work leaves.
What is a Career Break?
A career break is when someone takes an extended period away from their career, usually between one to two years. Career breaks are typically used to pursue other goals and priorities before returning to work. Common reasons for career breaks include travel, volunteering, spending time raising children, continuing education, or simply taking time to decompress from an exhausting career.
The key thing defining a career break is that it involves leaving your job entirely for a significant time. This time is usually unpaid and does not come with any guarantee that your job will be waiting for you when you return. However, some choose career breaks, knowing they have skills that will allow them to shift back into the workforce.
What is a Sabbatical?
A sabbatical also involves taking significant time off from work, usually shorter than a career break. Sabbaticals typically last anywhere from three months to a year. Rather than resigning permanently, employees on sabbatical take an extended leave to return to the same job.
Sabbaticals may be paid or unpaid, depending on the company’s benefits policy. Paid sabbaticals are viewed as an employee retention tool, allowing high performers to avoid burnout by taking time for rest and renewal. Sabbaticals sometimes allow employees to pursue educational opportunities or passion projects outside their day-to-day responsibilities.
Comparing the Differences
While career breaks and sabbaticals both provide valuable opportunities to step off the daily work treadmill, there are some key differences:
- Length of time: Sabbaticals are shorter, usually under one year, while career breaks may last one to two years.
- Job security: Those on sabbatical have a job waiting for them upon return, while career breaks involve voluntarily resigning without those guarantees.
- Pay: Sabbaticals may be paid if offered under an employer’s policy, while career breaks typically involve leaving behind your salary and benefits.
- Purpose: Career breaks allow sweeping life changes, while sabbaticals are intended for temporary respite from a longer-term career.
Maximizing Work-Life Balance with BrioHR
In the fast-paced modern job market, many professionals are exploring the benefits of extended leaves from work, such as career breaks and sabbaticals, to rejuvenate, pursue personal passions, or enjoy quality time with family. But the dilemma often lies in choosing between a career break or a sabbatical, each offering unique advantages and considerations.
