More Australians want the benefits of a career break – but is taking time off realistic for small-business owners?
A new study by Robert Half found that 59 per cent of Aussie workers are more willing to take a career break now than they were five years ago.
When the survey asked Aussie workers why they wanted to take a break, 59 per cent said they wanted to prioritise their mental health, while 50 per cent wanted to spend more quality time with family. Personal development motivated 46 per cent of workers surveyed, while 30 per cent wanted a break so they could reevaluate their career plans.
“We’re seeing a significant shift in attitudes towards career breaks,” said Nicole Gorton, Director at Robert Half. “The events that have unfolded in the last few years have prompted many individuals to re-evaluate their priorities and consider taking time off for personal growth, mental health or family commitments.”
How does it work for small-business owners?
Sharné Lategan is one small-business owner who took a break from her business. Lategan’s break was prompted by burnout, and she took six months out to reevaluate her career goals and focus on her mental health.
In particular, she underwent growth mindset coaching during her break, which made her realise she was in the wrong business.
“Growth mindset coaching allowed me to get true clarity on my goals and vision,” she told us.
Sharné traded her law firm for her current coaching venture, Grow and Expand, and is now much happier.
Why small-business owners can’t take breaks
It’s clear that there are great benefits of taking a career break. Despite this, some of the workers surveyed by Robert Half said they were less willing to take a career break now than they were five years ago. These individuals commonly had financial worries or concerns about job security or being “behind” in their careers.
The small-business owners we spoke to shared these worries.
“The main reason that I can’t take an extended break is financial,” said Edward Bassingthwaighte, who owns a small veterinary business.
The owner of the Healing Vet is the only one in his business “on the tools”, and thus can’t step away from operations. He added that his business has been feeling a drop in discretionary spending.
“I simply have to keep on working in and on my business,” said Edward. “A longer break of one to three months is simply not viable for me.”
“I would like to take a break due to both family and mental health, but am unable,” said Rachel Crawford, the co-founder of pet fragrance house HARLOW HARRY.
Rachel’s husband is a commercial photographer who also runs his own business. She said having two inconsistent incomes creates “considerable pressure”.
“With inconsistent incomes and a burning fire in your belly to succeed, you don’t get to take a break,” she said. “You reshuffle your “work” hours, try to prioritise mental health, stay strong and keep hustling.”
Taking a break just isn’t a reality for many small-business owners for financial reasons. But for those who are lucky enough to be able to step away, what about career progression?
Coming back to the business after a break
Elisa Limburg has taken two career breaks for maternity leave. She said that the breaks gave her time to reassess her priorities and spend time with family. Despite this, Elisa expressed that it was “a little bit difficult” coming back to her two businesses after the time away.
“Despite trying to stay on top of emails and industry news, at first I felt a little bit out of touch,” said the entrepreneur and director of Elevents. “My schedule was a little less flexible with little people to take care of as well. I also wasn’t able to network as frequently as I used to, which I missed.”
Research shows that Elisa’s experience isn’t unusual. Women are hit much harder than men by career breaks – and take more of them.
Elisa said she relied on her husband and family members to assist with the kids so she could focus on resuming operations. She said that she did lots of reading on industry developments to get up-to-date.
Though small-business owners are part of the increasing number of Aussies wanting a career break, taking time off is often unrealistic. Financial pressures, inconsistent income, and operational demands can force people to keep working. For those who manage to step away, the benefits can be transformative – but the return to work often requires hard work and peer support.
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