Would you take four months away from work? Have you ever wondered who you'd be without your job for a while? In this episode, I sit down with Harvard Business School lecturer and The Sabbatical Project founder Dennis “DJ” DiDonna to talk about why many of us keep pushing until burnout forces us to stop, how intentional time away creates space to reflect on what really matters, and why rest isn't about doing nothing. DJ also shares ways to plan a sabbatical, navigate the uncertainty that comes with slowing down, and return with a stronger sense of purpose. Get ready to rethink time off as an investment in the life and career you want to build.

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In this Episode, You Will Learn

00:00 A new way to think about time away from work.

05:30 How sabbaticals create space for renewal instead of escape.

07:15 What is a sabbatical?

10:00 How burnout led DJ to rethink the life he was building.

15:00 Why achievement often comes at the expense of the people who matter most.

21:45 What are the benefits of stepping away from work?

26:45 When is the perfect time for a sabbatical?

32:15 What are the 3 types of sabbatical takers?

36:00 Why reconnecting with your craft can restore creativity.

41:00 How do you give yourself permission?

46:00 Are sabbaticals always relaxing?

49:00 How stepping away from work can make you a better leader.

53:00 Why taking time off is an investment, not an escape.

57:30 DJ's advice for planning your first sabbatical.

Resources + Links

Learn more about DJ DiDonna HERE

Pre-order a copy of DJ DiDonna’s book Big Time Off HERE

Learn more about The Sabbatical Project HERE

Get a copy of my book - The Anxious Achiever

Watch the podcast on YouTube

Find more resources on our website morraam.com

Follow

Follow me: on LinkedIn @morraaronsmele + Instagram @morraam

Follow DJ DiDonna on LinkedIn: @djdidonna