Why I’m Taking A Mini-Sabbatical (And You Can Too!)

I have had relatively little stress in the past few years. We live simply and our expenses are low, so when I lost a big chunk of my graphic design business to Covid, we were able to weather it well and I didn’t have to scramble to make up for the lost income. So, I entered in to “semi-retirement” maybe a little earlier than I had expected. And yet, I still find myself needing a break from some of my routine.

Blame it on the weather, or the end of the year or the moon and tides, I’m not sure why this typically happens in December. And here we are at December.

Part of my mindfulness practice helps me to recognize this need for a short break from routine at this time. My simple life makes taking that break easier than it is for many people. And so, I’ve decided to take a mini-sabbatical of sorts, for t he next four weeks.

The word sabbatical comes from Sabbath, in other words, rest and renewal. Sabbaticals mirrored the biblical commandment of letting fields lie fallow every seventh year, or Schmita, allowing the fields to restore their health.

I’m choosing to call it a sabbatical instead of a break or respite or just some breathing room, because of the implications that go along with that term. For me, a sabbatical is a time for exploration, reflection, education, re-organization, and growth. I don’t really need more rest and relaxation, I have a good balance of that now. I am, however, looking for some renewal

I also know that I can’t practically put all my work aside. I am in the middle of some graphic design jobs that can’t wait, for example. And my twice weekly meditation groups feed my soul. They are an important part of my mental health routine and I don’t want or need to take a break from those.

While a part of this mini-sabbatical will be letting go of routine, another big part is welcoming in the new. So the first week may be dedicated to wrapping up what I can of the current jobs, becoming clear on my why and deciding what the following three weeks might look like.

My mini-sabbatical will not involve traveling to far off destinations. I plan to do it all from home base. What I know right now is that it will include a lot less screen time unless that screen time is in alignment with my purpose – online courses and my weekly meditation groups for example. Other than that, I am open to discovery.

So, my guess is you won’t be hearing from me for a few weeks and my next article will be my unveiling of the 2026 Word of the Year (WOTY). Have a beautiful holiday season full of joy and love and peace. See you in 2026!