34. What I've learned from a year of sabbatical coaching

April 23, 2025 • 00:12:17
34. What I've learned from a year of sabbatical coaching
Sabbatical 101
34. What I've learned from a year of sabbatical coaching

Apr 23 2025 | 00:12:17

/

Show Notes

In this final episode before I take a break for summer, I’m reflecting on a year of sabbatical coaching—what I’ve learned, what surprised me, and what I think every academic should know about planning a life-changing l sabbatical. Whether you’re dreaming about your first sabbatical or actively planning one, this episode is full of insights to help you make the most of your time away from the day-to-day grind.

Plus, I’m sharing a sneak peek at what’s coming this fall: a series of live coaching sessions with academics who are facing real-life sabbatical planning challenges. You won’t want to miss it!

Here are the key takeaways from my first year as a sabbatical coach:

There’s No “Right” Way to Sabbatical Forget the one-size-fits-all model. Sabbaticals don’t have to mean moving abroad or doing research in a specific location. Your sabbatical should reflect your goals and circumstances.

Your Sabbatical Application Is Not Your Sabbatical Plan Submitting your application is just the beginning. A truly restorative and productive sabbatical starts with identifying your purpose—and letting that purpose guide your decisions.

Sabbatical is a time to Reconnect with Your Whole Self Sabbaticals are a powerful opportunity to rediscover non-academic interests and parts of your identity that often get sidelined.

A Sabbatical Can Be a Turning Point The boundaries, habits, and insights you develop during sabbatical can shape your work and life long after it’s over—if you let them.

If you’re wondering how to figure out what to prioritize during your sabbatical, click here to download my free Sabbatical Clarity Toolkit!

To learn more about my signature coaching program, Reignite: Your Life-Changing Sabbatical, click here. You can also schedule a Free Consultation with me here. I hope to hear from you soon!

Other Episodes

Episode

December 10, 2025 • 00:39:29
Episode Cover

42. Live coaching: Creating structure and connection during sabbatical with Paul Fleming

Paul Fleming is an Associate Professor in the Department of Health Behavior & Health Equity at the University of Michigan School of Public Health....

Listen

Episode 0

September 04, 2024 • 00:19:13
Episode Cover

4. Jen's stay-battical plan

When Jen and I first started working together, she had no sabbatical plan and was disappointed that she was going to be staying home...

Listen

Episode 0

November 20, 2024 • 00:35:17
Episode Cover

15. Courtenay's Fulbright semester in Ireland

This episode is a conversation with Courtenay Barrett, who is an associate professor in the school psychology program at Michigan State University. In this...

Listen