In 2023, Rowena Hennigan found herself facing a difficult but necessary decision – she needed to take an extended break from work. Dealing with disrupted sleep, anxiety, and brain fog, all common symptoms of menopause, she realized that her mental health and work were suffering. Despite trying various remedies such as exercise, diet changes, therapy, and short breaks, she found herself stuck in a cycle of stress. As a self-employed remote work consultant, the idea of taking time off seemed daunting. The fear of jeopardizing the business she had built over six years made her hesitant. Still, she ultimately came to a realization that her health was paramount and that she needed proper rest to recover.
Rowena’s four-month sabbatical from her business, RoRemote, commenced in December 2023. Despite not having her own income during this period, she and her family managed to make ends meet. By setting a strict budget and staying with friends during the year-end holidays in Gran Canaria, she reduced accommodation costs. With careful planning, the total cost for her portion of the trip was $731. Back in Zaragoza, she budgeted for her share of fixed costs like rent, bills, and food, amounting to approximately $3,440 for the four-month break.
In mid-January, Rowena embarked on a four-week stay in the Spanish Pyrenees with a daily budget of $54. By opting for affordable accommodations and shopping at local supermarkets, she managed to keep her expenses in check. Despite not being able to ski due to unfavorable weather conditions, she found solace in hiking and spending time with her family on weekends. The total cost for this part of her sabbatical was $1,502.
Following her time in the Pyrenees, Rowena headed to Villembits, France for a month-long stay. Through Trusted Housesitters, she secured lodging in exchange for looking after the owner’s chickens, cats, and gardens. Embracing the serene environment, she spent around $11 a day on food, mostly sourced from the property itself. This unique experience allowed her to immerse herself in the local culture and spend quality time with her family. Excluding the Trusted Housesitters’ annual membership fee of $240, the total cost for this segment was approximately $300.
Rowena’s four-month sabbatical, costing just under $6,000, was filled with enriching experiences and rejuvenation. Engaging in activities like hiking and local sightseeing, she was able to detach from work and focus on self-care. While she occasionally checked her email inbox and stayed connected with her virtual assistant, the break was crucial for her well-being. Upon returning to work, she took on a part-time role with a cryptocurrency startup, feeling re-energized and refocused. The sabbatical taught her valuable lessons about the importance of rest and self-care, which she now applies to her daily routines. She discovered that her fears of taking time off were unfounded, and her clients were supportive of her decision. By opening up about her need for rest and seeking help, she experienced a profound sense of understanding and kindness from those around her.
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