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Dealing with career breaks is something that many people face during the course of their working lives. While they are mostly expected, sometimes they can be unexpected. However, they can become opportunities for growth and reinvention.
If you are not sure how to use a career break productively, then this post is for you. We explore some of the strategies you can use to make the most of the time you have away from your regular job.
Create a positive mindset
For some people, a career break can be a strength surprise. Not having any income coming every month feels like a real shock. However, the key change in mindset is to acknowledge that this is a strategic pause in income that allows you to look for other opportunities.
Usually, you’ll find that doing something else provides much greater returns on your investment than working a regular job. It’s just a question of finding out what that activity is. If you can follow in the footsteps of people who have been successful before, then that can really help you.
Seek new business opportunities
The next step is to think about seeking new business opportunities. Sometimes, it can be helpful to go to a franchise consultant. These professionals can tell you how to get started with a new business venture without having to start a brand for yourself. You can also look to work in partnerships with other companies or perhaps just work as an independent contractor in your particular industry. If you do want to start up a new brand by yourself, then gather people around you who can help you find individuals with the skills and knowledge you need to thrive.
Prioritize your self-care
A career break is also an opportunity to get back on track with your health and self-care. You can take the time you need to prepare healthy food and get your exercise daily. Looking after yourself can make you feel reinvigorated after many years in a career. You can get your energy back and improve your wellbeing dramatically.
Become a freelancer or a volunteer
If you’ve never been a freelancer or a volunteer, you can try that too. You could either start a personal project or join a course that you’ve always believed in but never had time to engage with properly. When you start volunteering for things, it gives you a sense of purpose that you didn’t have before. It can also give you opportunities for paid work if you can move up higher in organisations.
Start networking
Taking a career break is ironically a very good time to start networking. You have more energy and space in your day to speak to people and learn about their requirements and needs. Again, this can lead to new business or job opportunities that you might want to explore. People will often have ideas about what you can do next, or if you know the right people, they may even be willing to bring you on and hire you.
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