Jackson shares how he took a break after realising that his values didn't align with his job in agency recruitment. His time volunteering in Africa exceeded his expectations and he learned a lot from the people he met. Returning with a renewed sense of purpose he now works in a role that allows him to make a positive difference in people's lives.  Practical tips for a career break around finances, setting clear objectives and trusting the process The importance of community and connection both in the workplace and personal life. How he approached his job search once back in reality staying true to his non-negotiables How the process of reflection and can lead to happiness Integration techniques to ensure he doesn’t forget the lessons learnt Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:54 Realising the Need for a Break 05:48 Choosing a Sabbatical over Another Job 08:05 Volunteering in Africa 12:21 Overcoming Limiting Beliefs and Challenges 14:16 The Impact of the Sabbatical 17:07 Day-to-Day Volunteering Experience 20:03 Pivotal Moments and Shifting Perspectives 22:53 Life After the Sabbatical 23:53 Using a Sabbatical for Personal Growth and Transformation 26:43 The Importance of Community and Connection 28:21 Reflecting on Past Experiences to Guide Career Decisions 31:14 Seeking Feedback for Self-Reflection 41:53 Practical Tips for a Successful Sabbatical Guest bio: Jackson grew up in Orange, in country NSW, before moving to Sydney to start his career. He ticked off some boyhood dreams by gaining early work experience with a couple of sporting clubs before pivoting into recruitment. After his career break he made the move into P&C as he loves helping everyone enjoy their work more. He currently works for Recovery Station, you can get in touch with Jackson via his LinkedIn profile here. Additional resources:  Nakavango - https://www.nakavango.com/# DiSC - https://www.discprofile.com/what-is-disc Book recommendation: Getting to Yes with Yourself by Will Ury - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/158320166-possible Author recommendation: Marcus Buckingham https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18731.Marcus_Buckingham Episode transcript: coming soon Other episodes you may enjoy:  Kicking things off with the Queen of Career Breaks and Sabbaticals Katrina McGhee 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 - Rebecca Thomas 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/