What Is A Sabbatical? (And How To Take One)

Your vacation time is a valuable resource, offering opportunities to relax and engage in activities you love with those you cherish. Now, envision extending that time into multiple weeks or months, rather than just one or two weeks a year.

Returning to work after a sabbatical can leave you rejuvenated and ready to embrace your responsibilities with renewed enthusiasm.

All this is achievable through a sabbatical—read on to discover how.

Key Takeaways:

• A sabbatical is an extended leave from work intended to allow you to fully disconnect and pursue something meaningful.

• A sabbatical can range from a few weeks to over a year, depending on your situation and company policy.

• During your sabbatical, you might explore new cultures, study a subject you’re passionate about, or finally master that woodworking hobby you’ve been eyeing.

• Review your company’s sabbatical policy and prepare a detailed proposal about your plans before discussing it with your boss.

What Is a Sabbatical?

A sabbatical is a designated period away from your regular job, distinct from your annual leave. It provides the opportunity to fully disconnect and accomplish something that truly matters to you.

While it may seem counterintuitive for companies to support such time away, sabbaticals can be mutually beneficial for both employees and organizations.

Constant busyness can lead to burnout, whereas intentionally taking time off is essential for maintaining both mental and physical well-being.

Common reasons for taking a sabbatical include:

• Traveling and immersing yourself in new cultures

• Pursuing a subject of personal interest

• Spending time with a mentor to gain valuable insights

• Taking necessary time to rest

• Engaging in volunteer work

• Embarking on a journey of self-discovery

• Conducting research for a book or project

Regardless of your choice, ensure there is a purpose behind your sabbatical, even if it’s simply to allow your mind to unwind for the first time in years.

While on sabbatical, refrain from checking work emails or feeling anxious about work matters. This time is for you to disconnect completely. Everything will be waiting for you upon your return.

How to Take a Sabbatical From Work

1. Check company policy. Investigate whether your employer has a specific procedure for sabbaticals to prepare effectively.

   Some organizations may have stipulations about when sabbaticals can be taken or require you to commit to a certain duration of employment post-sabbatical.

2. Check your finances. Not all companies fully fund sabbaticals, so assess your financial situation thoroughly. Consider costs such as living expenses, travel, food, and any other needs. Ensure you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses, especially if your pay during the sabbatical is reduced or non-existent.

3. Prepare your proposal. Before discussing your sabbatical with your employer, gather relevant information about when you plan to take it, for how long, and how your workload will be managed during your absence.

   This may involve arranging for temporary coverage or redistributing tasks among team members to ensure a smooth transition.

4. Notify your employer. It’s advisable to inform your employer well in advance (several months, if possible) about your intention to take a sabbatical. Be prepared to answer questions and discuss the benefits of your proposed sabbatical.

   Negotiate any necessary paperwork if your request is approved and confirm all details before your departure.

5. Stay connected appropriately. While on sabbatical, remember that you are still an employee. Adhere to company policies and maintain professionalism, avoiding any actions that could compromise your position.

What to Do if Your Company Doesn’t Have a Sabbatical Leave Policy

Many organizations, particularly smaller ones, may lack established sabbatical policies. In such cases, you’ll need to advocate for your request to take time off beyond your regular vacation days.

Prepare a proposal outlining how your sabbatical could benefit the organization. Consider the potential gains for your employer, as they’ll need a valid reason to approve your leave. Possible benefits might include:

1. Acquiring new skills relevant to your role. If you plan to learn a new language or take courses that enhance your professional capabilities, this could be a compelling argument for your employer to support your sabbatical.

   Be ready to share specifics about what you plan to learn and how it will positively impact your work.

2. Conducting market research. If travel is part of your sabbatical, you can use this opportunity for first-hand market research, provided you genuinely utilize the time for this purpose.

3. Recharging for increased productivity. This is particularly reasonable after completing significant projects or following extended periods of dedication. Many organizations prioritize employee well-being and may be open to this request.

4. Offering growth opportunities for others. This rationale is best supported with other points, but highlighting how this time off can allow junior employees to step up and gain experience can be beneficial.

What to Include in a Sabbatical Leave Policy

If you’re in a position to establish a sabbatical policy in your organization, here are key considerations to include:

1. Purpose of the sabbatical. Clarify the intended purpose of a sabbatical. If your organization struggles with employee burnout, consider allowing sabbaticals for personal rejuvenation.

   Conversely, you might restrict sabbaticals to purposes that align with the organization’s goals, such as professional development or charitable work.

2. Duration of the sabbatical. Determine how long employees may take sabbaticals based on their objectives and the time needed to achieve them.

   Consider linking the duration to tenure within the organization, ensuring consistency across the board.

3. Eligibility criteria. Define who qualifies for sabbatical leave, often based on the length of service. Some organizations allow employees to take sabbaticals after five years, but this may vary based on your specific needs.

4. Timing of sabbaticals. Decide if employees can take sabbaticals at any time or if there are specific windows for eligibility, which can help with resource planning.

5. Approval process. Clearly outline the steps employees must take to request a sabbatical, including any necessary documentation and timelines for approval.

   Ensure this policy is easily accessible to current and future employees.

Sabbatical FAQ

1. What happens to my job while I’m on sabbatical?

   While your position is typically held for you during a sabbatical, your job responsibilities or title may change during your absence. This is akin to regulations under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).

   Consider the potential for significant changes to your role before deciding to take a sabbatical, as this is often why sabbaticals are prevalent in academia, where roles have remained consistent over the years.

2. What is sabbatical learning?

   Sabbatical learning is a dedicated leave for enhancing your skills through education. Employers typically appreciate this productive use of time and are more inclined to grant sabbaticals for meaningful pursuits.

3. Is sabbatical leave good or bad?

   Sabbatical leave can be advantageous with the right policies in place. Employers may have concerns about the commitment of employees post-sabbatical, while employees worry about job security upon return.

   However, when both parties understand the protocol surrounding sabbaticals, they can effectively reduce burnout and rejuvenate the workforce.

4. Can anyone take a sabbatical?

   While theoretically anyone can take a sabbatical, if your company lacks a formal policy, you’ll need to advocate for your request. Being open to an unpaid sabbatical may increase your chances of acceptance.

   Additionally, the length of time you’ve been with your organization is significant, and it’s advisable to wait until after your initial years of employment to request one.

5. Is sabbatical leave paid or unpaid?

   Most sabbatical leaves are paid, but this varies by company. Some organizations may offer only a percentage of your normal pay, while others may not pay during the sabbatical at all.

   Even without pay, the opportunity to take time off while having job security upon your return is valuable.

6. How long is a sabbatical?

   Sabbaticals can last from a few weeks to over a year, depending on the industry and company policies. For instance, academic institutions may provide faculty members an entire academic year for sabbaticals, while non-academic roles may have varying lengths based on tenure and company standards.

Author

Abby McCain

Abby is a writer who is passionate about the power of story. Whether it’s communicating complicated topics in a clear way or helping readers connect with another person or place from the comfort of their couch. Abby attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she earned a degree in writing with concentrations in journalism and business.