We often celebrate the growth and self-discovery that young adults experience during their gap years before they dive into college or careers. It's a journey filled with exploration and learning. Interestingly, that same kind of exploration can hold tremendous promise for those in midlife who are contemplating their next steps. 

Imagine hitting the pause button and taking a moment to reflect on your unique journey—the twists, turns, experiences and lessons along the way. Think of it as a gift you give yourself - a moment to pause intentionally and find the clarity and direction you need to move into a rich and fulfilling second half. Just as young adults thrive on exploring their identity and purpose, many individuals in midlife also find great value in taking a breath, reassessing priorities, and moving forward with a renewed sense of purpose in their next chapter.

In a world where careers tend to take center stage, it's easy to overlook the value of slowing down, reflecting, and embracing life beyond the demands and rewards of work. That's why I'm enthusiastically championing the idea of a Midlife Gap Experience (MGE)—a purposeful pause from the everyday grind to delve into new adventures, uncover fresh perspectives, and rediscover what truly brings us joy and meaning. If a year feels out of reach, keep in mind the length isn't the most crucial factor. Whether it's a year, six months, three months, or even six weeks, what matters is that you give yourself enough time and space to let things percolate and rise to the surface. So choose a duration that works for you.

Taking a good long break from work isn’t a new thing. Sabbaticals - originally meaning to take one year off every seven years - have roots in ancient rest and renewal traditions, and have been a key part of vocational journeys in  churches and higher education institutions. Today, sabbaticals in some form are used as  strategic recruitment offerings for organizations committed to well-being and engagement.

And for good reason. The research is clear: sabbaticals boost job satisfaction, reduce burnout, and enhance mental health. By providing space for reflection and new ideas, sabbaticals fuel innovation and resilience, benefiting individuals and fueling organizational success.

Have you thought about taking some extended time off? Have you considered how it might benefit you? If your employer doesn't offer a sabbatical, could you get creative and take matters into your own hands?

Here are six compelling reasons why a pause could be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make, especially during this unique (and exciting) phase of your life:

‍Reflecting on your First Half: Where are the Learnings?

Midlife is a pivotal moment where we've amassed significant life experience and a growing ‘data bank’ of wisdom. An intentional pause allows us to reflect on past achievements, challenges, and lessons learned, allowing us to gain clarity about our values, strengths, and areas for growth.

‍Factor Forward: Realign Priorities

Midlife often prompts a natural inclination to reassess priorities and goals. A sabbatical offers the perfect opportunity to reconnect with ourselves, realign our current path with evolving aspirations, and design this next phase of our life with intention.

‍Integrate. Integrate. Integrate.

Intentional breaks offer a chance to blend what we've learned with what matters to us now. It helps us make sense of our past and choose a future that feels right. Midlife Gap Experiences (MGEs) let us combine our experiences to create a fulfilling life that aligns with who we are.

‍Move from a Rut to a Groove

Moving from a rut to a groove in midlife is like going from feeling stuck to finding new energy and focus. Sabbaticals can help you overcome midlife malaise and bring about a sense of renewal. It’s about regaining enthusiasm, gaining fresh perspectives, and feeling more alive—a shift that brings renewed energy and purpose.

‍‍Build Relationships and Expand Your Circle

Spending time away from your daily routines presents an opportunity to connect with new people, communities and mentors. By doing so, you can cultivate meaningful relationships with those most important to you, expand your circle, and collaborate with others to gain diverse perspectives and experiences.

‍Explore Possibilities for What's Next

Use an MGE to explore new opportunities, interests, or career paths. Experiment with different projects or hobbies to discover what excites you. Keep an open mind and embrace the potential for growth and discovery.  Is there an idea or dream you keep setting aside, thinking you’ll get to it someday? Maybe now’s the time to give it another look. 

As you ponder the prospect of a MGE, remember this: life isn't just about working hard, it's  about living fully. If you feel the need to hit pause, reflect, and explore both what's shaped you and what awaits you, why not take the leap? After all, the most extraordinary chapters of our lives often begin with a courageous pause and a deliberate step into the unknown. Here's to your next adventure—may it be filled with wisdom, joy, and possibility!

Here are some questions to help you ascertain whether or not you could benefit from a Midlife Gap Experience (MGE):

1. When was the last time you took an intentional extended pause to focus on your life's direction? What did that look like?

2. What aspects of your life or work make you consider the potential benefits of a sabbatical?

3. What concerns or hesitations do you have about taking a MGE, and how might you address them?

4. What might an intentional break from your routine look for you? How would you use the time?

5. Who would you like to focus on building stronger relationships with?

6. What opportunities or possibilities do you think might emerge from taking intentional time away from your routine?

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