In this conversation, Martina McDermott shares her sabbatical journey, reflecting on her experiences traveling through the Americas and the motivations behind taking time off from her career. She discusses the importance of defining what a sabbatical means, the triggers that led her to take a break, and the challenges of preparing for such a significant life change. Martina also explores the concepts of boredom and burnout, the financial strategies she employed to save for her travels, and the lessons learned about being present and intentional during her time away.

Upon returning to work, she reflects on the reality of her situation and the need to align her values with her career goals.Martina shares her experiences of finding her 'mojo' after a break, the lessons learned from her career transitions, and the importance of preparation when starting a new business. The conversation concludes with practical tips for anyone considering a career break or sabbatical.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Acknowledgment

01:27 Martina's Background and Early Career

03:09 The First Sabbatical Experience

06:37 Triggers for Taking a Break

09:39 The Role of Boredom and Burnout

12:26 Preparing for the Sabbatical

15:01 Saving for the Sabbatical

16:15 Intentions Behind the Sabbatical

19:15 Reflection and Journaling

21:49 Returning to Work After the Sabbatical

24:21 Reality Check: Returning to the Same Role

27:18 Challenges Faced Post-Sabbatical

30:01 Unexpected Joys of Travel

30:56 Lessons Learned for Future Breaks

32:32 Building a New Business

34:09 Top Tips for Career Breaks

Find Martina and Peridot Life Sciences Recruitment at the following links:

https://www.weareperidot.com.au/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/martinamcdermott

Career transition, sabbatical and career break coaching:

I’m a coach who supports individuals through pivotal moments of transition in both their personal and professional lives. I support those who are facing a crossroads to discover clarity. Working with you I empower you to invest in a future version of yourself that will make you proud. Through personalised coaching sessions and my signature career transition and sabbatical programs I aim to provide a supportive and nurturing environment for you to explore your values, strengths and goals. More importantly I coach you to intentionally design your next chapter by redefining what success looks like to you and then implementing it.

Feel Good Getaways - https://feelgood-getaways.com/

With special thanks to:

Aunty B at the Flaxen, our amazing, talented and patient producer whose expertise helps make this podcast shine.

Joanna Cooke, whose soulful blend of smooth vocals we are lucky enough to use throughout the show. Listen and connect with Joanna via your favourite medium:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7EyKy53TsVFLJFZFyYzBZQ?si=HaCSIRCETS2uYB3LBLcrWA

Website - https://joannacooke.co.uk

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/joannacooke

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/joanna.cooke/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/joannacookemusic/