In today's episode, Nicky Palmer shares her transformative sabbatical journey, detailing her experiences of moving from the UK to the US, the challenges she faced in finding a new direction in her career, and the personal growth she achieved through travel and self-discovery. Nikki reflects on the importance of embracing change, the impact of the pandemic on her life choices, and the lessons learned about self-worth and motivation. She emphasises the value of shared experiences in relationships and offers practical tips for anyone considering a sabbatical.

We dive into:

• How to use a sabbatical to explore new opportunities and prototype your next chapter

• Why the pandemic served as a wake-up call for many

• The benefits of embracing uncertainty and being somewhat unplanned!

• How travel can help discover what you truly want in life.

• Why taking a break with your other half can lead to prioritising shared experiences.

• How to remain motivated when returning from a break and faced with the challenge of the job market

Chapters

(00:00) Intro

(01:30) Overview of Nicky's Sabbatical spending 6 months in the US

(08:30) Ego and how it is attached to job and employment

(12:30) Finding a passion for travel

(18:40) The biggest challenges, staying motivated and finding a job on return

(23:05) Realisation that the life wasn't suited to Nicky

(25:45) How identify has shifted since the break and continuing with travel and exploration

(31:00) Top tips for anyone embarking on a sabbatical

Other episodes you may enjoy: 

• How to support others through career breaks and sabbaticals: Tips from Jennifer Anderson

• 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/