Why I Left My Director Role at Google: A Case for Intentional Career Breaks

The Difficult Decision

My path to this sabbatical wasn’t conventional. As a Director at Google with a passion for coaching and helping people grow, I found myself at a critical crossroads. My current workplace didn’t offer a sabbatical option, which meant making the bold decision to resign and design a year of intentional personal and professional transformation.

For me, this sabbatical is a carefully crafted journey of growth. I’ll be traveling to a monastery in Nepal to deepen my Buddhist studies, developing my skills as a professional coach, and exploring the world—making this truly my year of turning dreams into reality. By stepping away from my traditional career path, I’m not just taking a break; I’m investing in a more intentional, meaningful professional and personal future.

Advantages of a Sabbatical

Career Pivot Potential

A sabbatical isn’t just a break—it’s an opportunity for strategic career recalibration. By stepping away from the daily grind, you create space to:

• Explore new industries and professional interests
• Develop skills through courses, workshops, or personal projects
• Network in different professional circles
• Gain perspective on your long-term career goals

Combating Burnout

Modern work culture often pushes us to the brink of exhaustion. A sabbatical offers:

• Mental and emotional reset
• Time to rediscover passion and motivation
• Opportunity to address stress and develop better work-life balance strategies
• Chance to reconnect with personal interests and hobbies

Bucket List Fulfillment

Life doesn’t wait, and a sabbatical allows you to:

• Travel to destinations you’ve always dreamed about
• Pursue personal projects you’ve put on hold
• Learn new skills or languages
• Spend quality time with family and friends
• Engage in personal growth activities like meditation, writing, or artistic pursuits

When a Sabbatical Might Be Right for You

Consider a sabbatical if you:

• Feel consistently exhausted or unmotivated at work
• Have a clear vision of personal or professional development
• Have financial stability to support a year without full-time income
• Are at a career transition point
• Feel a strong desire for personal exploration and growth
• Have supportive personal relationships that can sustain this journey

Practical Considerations

While exciting, a sabbatical requires careful planning:

• Build a robust financial cushion
• Research health insurance options
• Network and maintain professional connections
• Have a loose plan for your year, but remain flexible
• Consider part-time or freelance work to maintain income
• Prepare for potential challenges in re-entering the workforce

My Takeaway

This year is about more than just a pause—it’s about strategic reinvention. For anyone considering a similar path, remember: your career is a marathon, not a sprint. Sometimes, the most productive move you’ll make is a thoughtful, purposeful step back.