Should you wait until retirement to travel, train for a half-marathon, or volunteer for a charity? Many young people are increasingly rejecting this idea, choosing instead to embrace a new career trend promoted on social media: micro-retirement. This concept involves taking an extended career break, typically lasting several months, to focus on personal interests such as traveling, spending time with family, or pursuing hobbies, rather than waiting until the end of one’s working life. Unlike a sabbatical, where an employee takes an extended leave with a salary cut, micro-retirement is often self-initiated and is typically taken between jobs.
According to Marlene Pöhlmann, a careers expert at the recruitment agency Robert Half, micro-retirement is appealing to Generation Z, who value a strong work-life balance and personal fulfillment over rigid career paths. With many of them experiencing multiple jobs in their careers, they are more flexible in their approach to work. Additionally, the uncertainty surrounding pensions has led many young people to question the traditional work model, believing that they might not have the opportunity to enjoy their best years of life once they reach retirement.
While taking extended breaks can offer time to recharge and focus on personal development, there are risks to consider. In some countries, having a continuous, gap-free employment history is still seen as important, and taking time off could potentially limit opportunities for career advancement. If you’re not present during key moments at work, you may miss out on promotions or important projects. However, Pöhlmann notes that certain sectors, such as IT and creative fields, may be more accepting of micro-retirement, especially given the talent shortages in IT.
Before taking the leap, it’s important to consider how a micro-retirement might impact your career trajectory. You should ask yourself if you’re truly ready for such a break and whether you can financially afford it. It’s also essential to think about the impact on your health insurance and pension plans and have a clear plan for how to spend your time off and what you’ll do when you return to work.
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