In the last few years, it’s become faddish for some tech creators to discuss the need for and benefits of taking what they call “sabbaticals.” This term seems to be a fancy pants way of saying “an intentional break from work.”
What Is a Sabbatical, Anyway?
I agree taking breaks from work is a good idea. However, calling a break a “sabbatical” is not good communication. It carries too much baggage, causes confusion, and is unclear. Therefore, it is a poor term to express the concept. I’m sure people started using the term “sabbatical” because they thought it would be helpful, but it hasn’t worked out that way.
The unsuitability of this term is demonstrated by the extensive disagreement about what exactly constitutes a sabbatical. Much of the energy surrounding this topic is spent defining it and distinguishing it from other traditional and common uses of the word. For example, in a recent podcast, the hosts spent considerable time attempting to define a sabbatical and even more time trying to distinguish it from traditional cultural uses, such as religious, educational, and corporate sabbaticals.
This indicates to me that it’s a poor term to use for what people are trying to communicate by that term. There are too many varying traditional meanings, and too many unique, highly individualized meanings. Each proponent of taking sabbaticals appears to have their own definition.
I’ve heard people give supposed experts an example of how they took a break from work and ask, “Does what I did qualify as a sabbatical? Typically, the expert answers, “unfortunately not,” because their example didn’t fit the definition preferred by the “expert” by not meeting one of the elements of what they define as a true sabbatical.
Let’s Call It What It Is: A Break from Work
Language has a powerful impact on how we perceive concepts. For some, the word “sabbatical” carries an air of importance and gravitas, making it seem like a lofty, almost unattainable goal. However, for others, it creates confusion, elitism, or even a sense of exclusion—especially if they feel they can’t afford the time or resources for such a break.
By framing a simple concept like “taking a break” in grandiose or ambiguous terms, we risk alienating those who could benefit from it most. Instead of creating unnecessary barriers, using clear, relatable language like “taking time off” or “stepping away from regular work” makes the concept more accessible.
When we simplify, we democratize the idea, enabling everyone to recognize its value and adapt it to their circumstances.
It’s time to move on and replace the complexity and ambiguity of the term “sabbatical” with simplicity. Why not just call it an extended break and leave all the unnecessary semantic baggage behind?
Practical Ways of Taking Breaks from Work Vary by Individual
Different people find unique ways to take breaks from their regular work. They find what works best for them, and their methods often differ from the definitions asserted by self-appointed sabbatical definers.
Most people don’t have the luxury of regularly taking a week or weeks off. That’s even true for many creators with their own businesses who need to maintain a regular production flow.
According to Kirsten Weir, research supports that even short breaks—whether they meet someone’s definition of a “sabbatical” or not—can improve mental health, creativity, and productivity.
When I was an attorney working as a sole practitioner, I intentionally limited the growth of my business to what I felt was enough. That gave me the margin to regularly block off an extra day or two with a weekend to go backpacking or do local travel.
Although the sabbatical gurus would likely not call my hiking trips sabbaticals, they functioned for me as most define a sabbatical.
Build In Breaks that Work for You
“The mind must be given relaxation—it will rise improved and sharper after a good break. Just as rich fields must not be forced—for they will quickly lose their fertility if never given a break—so constant work on the anvil will fracture the force of the mind. But it regains its powers if it is set free and relaxed for a while. Constant work gives rise to a certain kind of dullness and feebleness in the rational soul.”
Seneca, On Tranquility of Mind, 17.5
Focus on the benefits of breaks, not the semantics. Calling something a “sabbatical” might elevate its importance for some, while alienating or confusing others.
The most important takeaway is this: taking a break—whatever you call it—is essential for your well-being and productivity. Here are a few practical steps to incorporate meaningful breaks into your life, no matter your work or financial situation:
1. Start Small: If extended time off feels impossible, begin with a single day or a long weekend. Use it intentionally to recharge, not just to catch up on chores.
2. Set Boundaries: Whether you’re taking a day or a month, clearly define what you won’t do during this time (e.g., work emails or projects) to ensure it feels like an actual break.
3. Reflect on Needs: Ask yourself what you hope to gain from your break—rest, creative inspiration, or quality time with loved ones—and design your time accordingly.
4. Experiment: Try different approaches. A single-day hike may recharge you just as much as a week-long retreat. What works best for you might surprise you.
5. Advocate for Flexibility: If you’re in a structured job, explore whether your employer offers sabbatical-like options or consider how you can use personal days or unpaid leave for a meaningful pause.
Ultimately, what you call it doesn’t matter. What matters is recognizing the value of stepping away and giving yourself permission to pause. Whether you choose a day, a week, or more, the benefits of intentional rest are universal and timeless.
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