In this conversation, Jay Epps shares his experiences of taking two significant career breaks, reflecting on the motivations behind them, the activities he engaged in, and the personal growth he experienced. He discusses the importance of disconnecting from work, exploring identity beyond employment, and the lessons learned about gratitude and purpose. Jay emphasises the need to redefine retirement and the value of time, encouraging others to embrace their own sabbaticals without guilt and to celebrate the journey.

We dive into:

• ​Intentional vs surprise breaks.
• ​The importance of gratitude and recognising privileges during a break.
• ​How identity is not tied to employment, but why this was such a significant realisation.
• ​The need to unlearn societal expectations about productivity during a break.
• ​How to take a break without guilt, and instead to celebrate experiences. 

Chapters

00:00 - Reconnecting with Jay on his sabbatical journey

02:24 - Jay’s intentional break after redundancy

06:18 - Finding gratitude and new hobbies during a career break

09:03 - Discovering self-worth beyond professional roles

11:59 - Exploring needs, wants, and future lifestyle design

18:18 - Navigating jealousy from friends and travel highlights in Indonesia

24:34 - Recognising sabbatical privilege and time as a precious resource

29:50 - Purpose, no guilt, and celebrating your career break

Other episodes you may enjoy: 

• ​How life a changing sabbatical helped host Bex transition from corporate to coaching 
• ​Taking a career break to change professional direction and find fun again with Steve Duke

Get in touch: If you are interested in sharing your sabbatical story, we would love to hear from you.  Buzz us a DM on Instagram - ⁠@Sabbatical_Stories⁠ or reach out on LinkedIn - ⁠Bex Thomas.⁠

Career transition, sabbatical and career break coaching: 

As a career transition, sabbatical, and career break coach, I inspire, challenge, and support people like you to create a life that feels deeply aligned with your values, dreams, and authentic self. 

Whether you’re craving a new direction, a chance to pause, or the courage to pursue what really matters, I’m here to guide you toward your own version of success on your terms.

Together, we’ll break free from societal blueprints, rewrite the rules, and design a future you’re excited to wake up to. Learn more ⁠here⁠

💫 Ready to make the most of your time away from work? Download my free guide, "5 Ways to Maximise Your Career Break", packed with practical tips and soulful insights to help you pause with purpose and return with clarity. 

Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already on sabbatical, this is your essential companion.

👉 Grab your free copy ⁠here⁠

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/