In my prior post DO YOU NEED A SABBATICAL? from weeks ago, I shared about a CEO client of mine considering a multi-week sabbatical. After weeks of reflection, he’s decided that fully unplugging is essential for his future success.
This CEO is making a very bold move. He set an Out of Office message, letting contacts know he won’t be checking phone, social media, or email during this intentional season of rest (his team will handle urgent follow-ups).
As the year wraps up, he’s embracing this opportunity to reset, even if it means a temporary dip in revenue.
His belief? Deep rest will help him come back STRONGER, SHARPER, and more FOCUSED than ever.
In my work with leaders, I’ve seen how slowing down can be a SPRINGBOARD, not a setback. Many impactful figures have credited intentional breaks with transforming their vision and trajectory. For instance:
• BILL GATES: Known for his “Think Weeks,” Gates would retreat to a secluded spot to read, reflect, and dream big—resulting in breakthrough ideas that drove Microsoft success.
• OPRAH WINFREY: After ending her iconic talk show, Oprah took time to reflect, paving the way for her OWN network and an even more successful chapter in her career.
• ALBERT EINSTEIN: Though he didn’t take formal sabbaticals, Einstein made room for regular periods of REST and REFLECTION through sailing and music, nurturing the creativity that fueled his greatest discoveries.
Stepping back doesn’t mean falling behind; often, it’s the secret to leaping forward.
So, what can slowing down really do?
- RECONNECT & REST: Breathe, reconnect with family, and rediscover your passions. Remember why you started this journey in the first place.
- RESET YOUR VISION: Pausing cuts through the noise, helping you realign with what truly matters.
- REIGNITE YOUR DRIVE: Unplugging recharges your mental energy, sparking fresh ideas and inspiring new perspectives.
- RECLAIM CLARITY & DIRECTION: When we stop reacting to daily demands, we create space for strategic thinking and bold new ideas.
You don’t need a lengthy sabbatical. Even smaller, intentional breaks can make a HUGE difference—history proves it worked for Albert Einstein!
How are you creating space for these kinds of intentional breaks? Let’s talk—some of the BEST IDEAS HAPPEN OFF THE GRID!
Share this with a leader who might need a reminder to pause and recharge.
