INTHEBLACK May 2022 - Magazine - Page 18
GET SMART
// T I M E S T H R E E
COMPILED BY SUSAN MULDOWNEY
CAN A SABBATICAL
BENEFIT YOUR
FINANCE CAREER?
Many finance professionals are exhausted by the workloads and
pressures of the pandemic. An extended break from your current
role – or from work altogether – could be just what you need, but
how should you go about it, and will it be good for your career?
01
D AV I D R O S S C PA
PA R T N E R , I & R A D V I S O RY
After working with the same practice for almost
25 years, I decided it was time for a career
break. I think the impact of COVID-19 has shifted
priorities for a lot of people, and I knew I would
benefit from taking some time out.
I left my job in August 2020. A few months
later, I bought a four-wheel drive and a
campervan and travelled around Australia for
about a year. It was something I’d been thinking
about doing for a long time.
Before making the decision to take a break,
I had considered leaving the industry. Looking
back, I can see I was unhappy at work, but now
I have a whole new perspective.
I had some incredible experiences while I
was away. I had some challenging trips across
the Simpson Desert after the rain, and my
brother and his family joined me up in Cape
York for a holiday.
Now that I’ve settled back at home, I’m in the
process of starting my own practice with a
former colleague. We share the same priorities
of focusing on health and happiness. I see real
value in allowing people to work the hours that
suit them, so long as we all get the work done.
If you want to go for a surf during the day, do it.
If picking up your kids from school is important
to you, work shouldn’t get in the way.
I feel more relaxed, invigorated and motivated
since taking a career break. If you’re thinking of
doing the same, my advice is to do it soon.
_
Before making the decision to take a break,
I had considered leaving the industry. Looking
back, I can see I was unhappy at work, but now
I have a whole new perspective...I feel more
relaxed, invigorated and motivated since taking
a career break.
18 ITB May 2022