Reflecting on My Sabbatical: 6 Unexpected Lessons Learned
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Chapter 1: A Journey of Self-Discovery
This year, a moment of reflection made me realize that my current path wasn't aligned with my true desires. Looking ahead five years, I feared I'd be filled with regret if I continued on this trajectory. Once, the ambition of being a business owner with multiple locations was my sole focus. However, after a deep introspection, I recognized that what I truly craved was the freedom I once associated with entrepreneurship. The growth of my businesses had distanced me from that initial dream.
To come to terms with this revelation, I sought guidance from a therapist and a naturopath before making any significant decisions. Months later, I decided to sell my businesses. While these were small enterprises that didn't yield millions, they provided me with a decent financial cushion.
As my final workday approached, I envisioned all the activities I could finally pursue—things I had previously postponed due to a lack of time. I was enthusiastic about my next steps, but when that last Friday arrived and I left work at noon, the subsequent week felt like an extended vacation. However, by the third week, I found myself feeling aimless.
Here are six lessons I wasn't ready for when I embarked on this sabbatical:
Section 1.1: The Need for a Goal
For 18 years, I had a clear objective: to grow my businesses. Each day began with a purpose, and suddenly, that purpose was absent. I attempted to shift my focus to family and health, but as someone driven by ambition, that alone didn't satisfy my need for a goal. I realized I had heavily relied on work for a sense of purpose.
Sahil Bloom discusses the importance of having significant goals in his newsletter.
While I still haven't pinpointed a new goal, I'm learning to be comfortable in the interim. Engaging in home renovations has provided me with tangible tasks to accomplish. By setting small, achievable goals, I can track my progress and find satisfaction.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Impact on My Social Network
For years, 96% of my social interactions revolved around my work. Conversations with 50-100 people daily were common, but now it dwindled to just 5-10. I realized how much I enjoyed socializing until it was taken away.
To cope, I began taking long walks in my neighborhood and reconnecting with old friends. Writing on Medium and returning to the gym after a long hiatus have also helped me rebuild my social circle gradually.
Section 1.2: The Perception of Time
Time feels different now—not necessarily better or worse, just altered. I find myself losing track of days, which is frustrating as I prefer making the most out of each day. The ease with which time slips by when I'm not constantly monitoring the clock is astonishing.
To manage this, I plan my days around tasks I want to complete. They can be minor, such as writing a Medium article or taking a walk, but I strive to make each day meaningful.
Nassim Nicholas Taleb famously said, "The three most harmful addictions are heroin, carbohydrates, and a monthly salary. You won't get rich working for someone else."
Section 1.3: Adjusting to Financial Independence
I had grown accustomed to receiving bi-weekly paychecks, so the absence of a regular income was a significant adjustment. Although I had a financial cushion for a year, watching my bank account steadily decline was an unexpected challenge.
I'm exploring investment opportunities that generate cash flow and considering part-time work or small projects, perhaps at a local Home Depot, to ease this transition.
Chapter 2: Facing Loneliness and Productivity
The first video titled "6 Critical Lessons I Learned After Retiring - You May Retire a Year Earlier!" provides valuable insights into navigating life post-retirement. It discusses the importance of setting new goals and adjusting to a new routine.
Loneliness, closely tied to my social network changes, emerged as an unexpected feeling. Entrepreneurship can be isolating, but the interactions I once had kept that loneliness at bay. Now, with many friends still engaged in their routines, my weekdays can feel quite solitary.
To combat this, I've attempted to expand my social network and make plans with friends. However, the pressure to fix the situation often made it feel forced. I'm now learning to embrace solitude by reading, writing, and enjoying the quiet moments, understanding that this phase won't last forever.
The second video titled "Episode 0044 - The Temporary and Permanent Disability Retirement Lists" explores the complexities of retirement planning and can help those navigating similar transitions.
Finally, I came to terms with how much I valued productivity. I often measured my day by the number of tasks completed, but without the endless to-do list, I felt a sense of unease.
I'm gradually reminding myself that productivity isn't solely defined by the number of emails sent or tasks checked off. It's essential to find balance and prioritize personal well-being.
In conclusion, I encountered many unexpected lessons during this journey, including conversations with others about their dissatisfaction with life. Despite the challenges, I strive to support those around me by sharing my experiences and encouraging open dialogues.
Thank you for reading, and I wish you happiness, courage, and success on your journey. I'm here to assist anyone who needs it.