VPs and up that have gone on sabbatical, how did it turn out for you?
Hi everyone, I don't post much but I would like to get folks' perspectives on something I've been wrestling with for the past few months.
I've done fairly well in my career -- I'm on partner-track in an emerging VC in Asia, and we're set to raise a new fund next year. On all accounts, I think it's a great job. I'm well compensated. I enjoy the work and love my team. I receive close mentorship from my seniors. They've invested a lot in me and have laid out a defined path for me to become partner in the next 4 years. Finally, I am extremely close with the partner that is expected to take over the fund when the current heads retire in a few years.
Everything is very well set up for me, but I can't help but feel exhausted and burned out. I don't feel healthy or happy. Work (and probably mild depression) has left me little time or energy for relationships, new friends or hobbies. I get incredibly stressed whenever I think about the commitment it will require from me to step up for our next fund, as I'm expected to. Something needs to change for me.
I plan to go on sabbatical (or quit, if it comes to that) for one year to recover physically and mentally, and reconnect with friends and myself. I don't really have much planned beyond surfing, getting back in shape and traveling around at the moment.
So, I wanted to ask those that have taken the plunge:
- First of all, was it worth it? Any regrets? Any advice on things you would have done differently?
- If you planned to return to your old firm, how did you approach that conversation with your bosses?
- How did you avoid boredom? Did you work or do anything at all (e.g. start a business, consult, etc.) to keep sharp and competitive?
- How did you decide it was time to come back? Did you eventually return to your old firm or do something else entirely? How difficult was it to get back in the game?
Thanks you all in advance for reading and for sharing your thoughts and stories.
Based on the Wall Street Oasis discussions, taking a sabbatical, especially at a senior level like VP and above, can be a transformative experience with generally positive outcomes, provided it's well-planned and communicated. Here’s a breakdown of insights and advice based on similar experiences shared in the WSO community:
Was it worth it? Any regrets?
Approaching the conversation about a sabbatical:
Avoiding boredom and staying sharp:
Deciding to return and reintegration:
In summary, a well-planned sabbatical can be a career and life-affirming decision. It’s important to plan both the sabbatical itself and your re-entry into the professional world with careful consideration of your long-term career goals.
Sources: Getting job after 2-3 years unemployed, Two-Year Sabbatical/Break from PE, Return to Office Sucks, Selfish Ask for Help in Situation, Anyone want to share success stories for comeback from severe burnout early in career?
One datapoint: a friend was burned out and left his bank on the sell-side in May 2021 as a VP when the market was gangbusters. When he was ready to look for a job in early 2022, the market had completely turned it took him several months to find a new job.
What about asking them about a 6-8 week sabbatical for personal reasons? I was burned out, took 7 weeks in between jobs where I travelled the world, reconnected with friends and felt very relaxed, rejuvenated and eager to go back.
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