A Year to Remember: My Sabbatical Journey
Taking a sabbatical year was a decision I had contemplated for a long time. As life became increasingly demanding, the prospect of disconnecting from the daily grind and exploring new horizons became more appealing. After an unexpected layoff I decided the time was right. I embarked on a journey that would change my perspective on life, allowing me to rediscover myself, give back to the community, and acquire new skills. Here’s a glimpse into my incredible sabbatical year, filled with hiking, globetrotting, volunteering, and lifelong learning.
Exploring the Natural Wonders of the Pacific Northwest
My sabbatical kicked off with a deep dive into the stunning natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. I’ve lived here for years and had already hiked all over but I always had to get back in time for work. Spending more time exploring the vast expanse of lush forests, towering mountains, and pristine lakes drew me like a magnet. Armed with a trusty backpack and hiking boots, I embarked on a series of unforgettable hikes and camping adventures.
One of the highlights was building the confidence to backpack and camp by myself as I had always gone with friends. Each step on a trail and night under the stars alone felt like a journey within, as I disconnected from the digital world and reconnected with note only nature but myself. From the enchanting rainforests of Olympic National Park to the rugged terrains of the North Cascades, every trail told a different story, and I was thrilled to be there to listen.
Relaxing at Beautiful Beaches: Cozumel, Kauai, and Cancun
My sabbatical was not just about exploring the great outdoors; it was also a time for exotic getaways and reconnecting with family and friends. I embarked on a series of vacations to tropical paradises that included Cozumel, Kauai, and Cancun.
Cozumel was a scuba diving enthusiast’s dream come true, with its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Exploring underwater caves and swimming with sea turtles and rays were experiences I’ll cherish forever.
Kauai, Hawaii, with its lush landscapes and dramatic cliffs, offered a more tranquil escape. Boating and hiking the Na Pali Coast and exploring the Garden Isle’s hidden waterfalls and caves left me awe-inspired.
Cancun, Mexico, provided the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. From lounging on pristine beaches to exploring ancient Mayan ruins, Cancun had something for my whole family.
Giving Back: Rescuing Both Food and Dogs
During my sabbatical, I wanted to make a positive impact on the world, and becoming a regular volunteer with the Community Resource Network (CRN) gave me that opportunity. CRN is an organization dedicated to rescuing food and providing it to needy families, a cause close to my heart. I joined their efforts to collect surplus food from local businesses and distribute it to other community organizations that supply families in need. I continue to volunteer 12-15 hours a month.
I also have been helping a dog rescue organization. It’s the same one I adopted my two best friends from, both rescued street dogs that had known very rough lives. I spent much of the Spring and Summer taking dogs out for long walks and hikes in the local parks and forests, helping them to trust again and gain the confidence to find their forever homes.
Lifelong Learning: Acquiring New Skills
A sabbatical is not just about leisure; it’s also an opportunity for personal growth. I seized this chance to learn new skills and expand my horizons.
As someone deeply passionate about staying at the forefront of industry trends and methodologies, I embarked on a journey to earn a certificate in Product-Led Growth (PLG). PLG is not just a trend; it represents the future of business success in an increasingly digital and customer-centric world. The ability to leverage a product’s inherent value to drive growth is a skill set that is highly sought after and will continue to be in demand as businesses strive to stay competitive and relevant.
Next, I embarked on a coding journey by enrolling in a coding bootcamp focused on website development in WordPress. Building websites from scratch, customizing themes, and mastering web coding languages was challenging but incredibly rewarding. I also mastered course, coaching, and community building with Kajabi sites and furthered my Webflow.io expertise. These web development skills rounded out my marketing skillset, allowing me to offer a full-suite of marketing services to my consulting clients.
I dove head-first into the world of artificial intelligence by taking a course that taught me how to leverage AI tools to streamline marketing efforts. Learning about chatbots, data analytics, and AI-driven marketing strategies was eye-opening and provided a valuable skill set I’m already using in client applications. I’m now proficient in using SEO, writing, and web development AI tools to quickly produce highly relevant first drafts of content and websites that can then be expertly finished for an affordable yet professional product.
What’s Next?
As my sabbatical year neared its end, I found myself facing a pivotal crossroads. The experiences, knowledge, and personal growth I had gained during this transformative journey had ignited a newfound passion within me. I decided to take a bold step forward and channel my skills and expertise into something meaningful. With a heart full of gratitude and a mind buzzing with possibilities, I made the decision to launch my own marketing consulting business.
This entrepreneurial endeavor not only allows me to continue pursuing my passion for marketing but also enables me to help other businesses grow and thrive in an ever-evolving digital landscape. My sabbatical had been a year of exploration and self-discovery, and now, as I venture into the world of entrepreneurship, I feel prepared and excited to embrace and ease the growth challenges my clients face.
If you’ve ever considered taking a sabbatical, I encourage you to seize the opportunity. It might just be the most enriching experience of your life, as it was for me.