Short-term career breaks

What exactly is a short-term career break?
What can I do on a short-term career break?
Why should I do a short-term career break?
How do I go about it?
Further information

What exactly is a short-term career break?

A short-term career break generally refers to one which is less than a month long, although anything up to 3 months can be termed a short career break. People over 35 are more likely than younger career breakers to take a short break.

What can I do on a short-term career break?

There are now a number of organisations which offer short term volunteering placements (a minimum of one week). You can teach, help in community development projects, work in disaster relief or join conservation projects. You can also do a short course (in sports or another vocation, like cooking), or do something on your own, like write or paint. Even in a short space of time, it's possible to make a lasting difference, both to your own life, and to those of other people.

Why should I do a short-term career break?

The main reason is because it's a lot easier, especially if you have a lot of ties. You don't have to give up your job - you can do it in holiday time, between jobs or request a short period of unpaid leave. You also don't have to put your 'normal' life on hold while you take your break, so there's a lot less organising involved. A lot of people choose to do a short-term break simply because they're unable to do a longer one right away, and they want the chance to do something different, and to make a lasting impact.

How do I go about it?

If you want to volunteer or do a short course, start by searching the database. If you want to do something on your own, read Brian's case study for inspiration (he got a grant to write a play).

Further information

Search our list of career break companies for short-term career breaks.
Need to know something else? Email us.
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