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Reflections: Sabbatical Week 4 - I made a bold and courageous move to ask a group of close women in my life for ongoing support and accountability in relation to a very vulnerable personal challenge. Asking for help is hard. Not having all the answers is hard. Having people to love and show up for me makes it easier and less lonely. - Got to travel to Georgia and Florida to see friends who I haven’t seen in a longggg time. Getting out of my natural habitat and being exposed to old parts of myself was good and healing. - It’s harder to slow, empty and refresh my brain than I expected. My impulse is to fill the “working” part of life with other “doing” things. I have plans for next week to practice and experiment with being for the sake of being without outside stimuli. - I’m slowly seeing some of the ways that I have made tiny sacrifices and compromises in the last six months in relation to my business values. I’m making note of the small betrayals and trying to identify their roots so that I can move back towards feeling more authentic, aligned, and whole in 2025. - I’m being called to trees and water more than anything right now. Fell in love with this mighty Oak on a walk, and it felt like it loved me back. *** Sending you love wherever you are are your journey. What are your reflections from this week??

Ever been so sick of corporate life that herding sheep sounds like a better alternative? 🐑 🤷🏻♀️ 🐑 This week on Sabbatical Stories I am joined Tanya Saker and what fun we had! Tanya shares her story of leaving corporate America after 15 years and returning to the UK 🇬🇧 Initially Tanya planned only to take the summer off to work in pubs and restaurants in her childhood village. But then, through various steps, she ended up extending her sabbatical and starting two new lifestyle businesses: pet sitting and career coaching. We discuss amongst other topics: 🌍 How to build a nomadic and varied life around pet sitting and other revenue streams. 🌍The fear of failure and imposter syndrome plus tips to overcome them. 🌍Embracing the imperfect and future proofing life including a savings plan. 🌍Trusting your gut and not waiting for everything to be planned. 🌍The importance of being open-minded and prepared to pivot as opportunities arise. 🌍Learning to live with less and prioritising what is truly important. If you’re in need of a giggle, Tanya’s animal encounter stories will be sure to bring you the sunshine at the end of your week! #sabbatical #careerbreak #careertransition #careerchange #careerchoice

Last week, I celebrated my 1st year anniversary as a working mom in Canada, a country I’ve called home since 2018 when I immigrated from Peru. Before becoming a mom, I was told that my world would change but I didn’t fully appreciate just how drastically. My daughter Bianca changed everything, and did so in the best way possible. Below are the biggest 5 lessons I’ve learned: 𝟭-𝗣𝗮𝗶𝗱 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝗮 𝗽𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲 𝗺𝘂𝗰𝗵 𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗱 - coming from a country where moms get 3 months and dads 10 days, I realize what a luxury it is to be able to have up to 18 months of maternity leave. Being present for your baby’s first meal, first time crawling or saying “mama” are memories I will cherish forever. 𝟮-𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗺𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁’𝘀 𝗼𝗸 - as someone who’s been super career-driven for many years, I never thought my daughter’s arrival would be enough to shift my priorities. For her, I’ve slowed down. Working 24/7 is no longer appealing, but spending an entire afternoon at the park with her is. 𝟯-𝗕𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗮 𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗵𝗮𝘀 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗻𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 - knowing that you are working on complex and impactful initiatives with a team that deeply cares about you and recognizes your work is priceless. I am grateful for being part of one. 𝟰-𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗱𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝗻𝗲𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗶𝗲𝗿. 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗯𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘄𝗶𝘀𝗲𝗿 - you suddenly realize that you are mastering new skills (e.g., operating in ambiguity, crisis management and adaptability), many of which are transferable to your professional life. 𝟱-𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗺𝗮𝘆 𝗳𝗲𝗲𝗹 𝘁𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗲 - motherhood isn’t the typical love story; it is the raw, unedited version, which makes it the most beautiful love of all. I now have a greater appreciation and profound respect for all working parents climbing this same mountain. You’ll fall, but keep climbing because you are unbelievably strong. The view from the top is beautiful, and so is the one behind you.

As the end of the year approaches, I find myself reflecting on the journeys taken - both professionally and personally. I once worked at LGE/PFL. It’s hard to believe it has been nearly 2 decades - since I first met and worked alongside my 'PFL crew'. Although we haven’t shared an office in all that time, I sometimes reminisce about how we bonded over impossible deadlines and chuckle at the absurdities we managed to survive together. I remember how easy it was to be friends, as well as colleagues. That time in our lives felt so much simpler. Less responsibility, fewer commitments, and lighter hearts. We didn’t know it then, but those really were the days, weren’t they? Seeing each other every day, sharing the most mundane or momentous details of our lives. We celebrated birthdays, weddings, welcomed new babies, navigated breakups. And we faced the unspeakable loss of Femi Sangowawa - someone who will always be missed. Behind all those shared workdays, out-of-office adventures, and spontaneous catch-ups lie a history and authentic friendships I treasure deeply. For that, I’m forever grateful! In December, I will be hosting a special Zoom-in with my former PFL colleagues. 🤩 Some of us have moved across continents, switched industries, or taken on new challenges, but the bonds we formed remain a reminder of what really matters. It'll hopefully be a good chance to remember the laughter, the struggles, and the growth we experienced together! To all my former colleagues: I can’t wait to hear where life has taken you. Let’s continue to inspire each other and carry forward the lessons we’ve learned. ⭐ #reconnect #oldfriends #gratitude #careerjourneys #endofyearreflections #linkedin

I have settled back into my role at Lilly after a refreshing family holiday in Porto, I am taking a moment to reflect on a transformative month for me - returning to work as a mam, in a new country and an exciting new role.   I wanted to share some of the exciting lessons I have learnt on balancing life's significant milestones;   𝐄𝐦𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐀𝐫𝐦𝐬 🤗: Transitioning from maternity leave to a new job while adjusting to life back home in Ireland with a baby has been nothing shy of a whirlwind (and breath!). But each step has reinforced the importance of embracing change.   𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐳𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐟-𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐭 🧘♀️: My recent holiday was more than just a break; it was a chance to recharge both physically and mentally. The past month has been a huge change, and taking time off reminded me that self-care is essential to sustaining long-term productivity and well-being.   𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐒𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐬 🤝: Juggling the life of a working parent and a new job has opened my eyes to the value of having a strong support network. One of the main reasons we moved home was to have the village it takes. Luckily, my family and friends have always been there for us but to step into a role with a supportive manager & team at Lilly, it is those people who lift you up during big transitions.   𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐭𝐡 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐁𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 🌱: Starting a new job amidst all these changes has been a thrilling experience. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities to grow, both as a professional and as a person. It’s a reminder that new beginnings, though daunting, are gateways to exciting possibilities.   This new journey is a testament to the beautiful, albeit sometimes chaotic, balance of work, family, and personal growth.   Here’s to new beginnings, continued memories, and the endless possibilities that lie ahead. 🚀✨   #BackToWork #NewBeginnings #MaternityLeave #WorkLifeBalance #Gratitude #Parenthood #CareerGrowth

As I look back on the past year, I am overwhelmed with a sense of gratitude for the growth, challenges, and beautiful moments that shaped it. Wearing many hats—mum, full-time working professional, wife, and foreigner keep adjusting —has been both humbling and inspiring 👌 Being a mum has been my most rewarding role. Every giggle, every milestone, and even the moments of chaos reminded me of the joy of nurturing and raising a little soul. Balancing this with everything else wasn’t always easy, but it taught me patience and the beauty of being present.💫 #mortherhood Navigating my full-time job while managing home life has been a masterclass in perseverance. It wasn’t without its hurdles, but each challenge pushed me to become more adaptable and focused. Celebrating small victories at work kept me motivated and reaffirmed that hard work truly pays off.🧗♂️ #fulltimejob #navigating As a wife, this year has deepened my appreciation for the partnership we’ve built. Amid the demands of daily life, we found moments to reconnect and support each other, strengthening the foundation of love and respect we share.🥰 #family #values #wife #support Living in a foreign country has been an adventure in itself. Adjusting to a different culture, language, and way of life wasn’t always easy, but it enriched my perspective. Every new experience taught me resilience and opened my heart to the beauty of diversity.🔥 #foreigner #diversity #adjustments Photography remained my cherished escape—a way to capture fleeting moments and celebrate the beauty around me. Whether it was my child’s laughter, a quiet sunrise, or a candid street scene, photography reminded me to pause and appreciate life’s simplicity.🤳📷📸 #photography #hobby The past year wasn’t perfect, but it was meaningful. It reminded me that growth often comes through challenges and that even in the busiest of seasons, there’s beauty to be found. I’m entering the new year with gratitude, hope, and a heart full of memories, ready to embrace what lies ahead.🎄🙏#resolution To anyone juggling multiple roles: take a moment to honor your journey. You’re doing more than enough, and every step you’ve taken has been a testament to your strength and grace. #multiple #feedback

The summer holidays are drawing to a close, and we’re ready to start our next chapter. My daughter is beginning her final year of secondary school, and my son is starting his own secondary journey. Balancing a career I’m passionate about with the joys and responsibilities of life has been both an honour and a juggling act. My career in the learning disability sector began when I returned from maternity leave in 2010, a new mum determined to make my mark while nurturing my family. Over the years, I’ve risen from senior manager to CEO, all while growing my family and remaining dedicated to my roles as a parent, partner, and professional. It’s important to recognise that working full-time doesn’t diminish our personal roles—whether as parents, caregivers, or individuals with passions and responsibilities outside of work. In fact, it enriches them. The resilience, dedication, and passion we bring to our work are the same qualities that shape our personal lives. I’m incredibly proud of the well-rounded, brilliant individuals my children are becoming—not in spite of my career, but alongside it. As my children embark on their own educational journeys, I’m reminded of the countless others who are managing this delicate balance in their own unique ways. Whether you’re just starting out or have been walking this path for years, know that your dedication is seen and respected. We juggle meetings and responsibilities, deadlines and personal time, often feeling like we’re constantly moving pieces on a complex chessboard. To all those who share this journey, past and present: I see you. I respect you. And I’m inspired by you. Let’s continue to support one another, lifting each other up in this shared experience of striving, loving, and leading by example—for ourselves, for our colleagues, and for those we care about. Here’s to embracing every role we play, knowing that we are enough in each one. #Leadership #CareerAndLife #WomenInLeadership #CEO #WorkLifeBalance #Inspiration #Respect #LearningDisability #WomenInBusiness #CareerGrowth

Have you had an experience of feeling insignificant? What did it feel like? 🗯️ This is one of the questions that we ask participants in The Sabbatical Experience. This unique program of life introspection has been designed for like-minded individuals who have a lot, who have achieved a lot and are at a point in their life in thinking about the next 5 to 25 years. If you are at a point in thinking about your next chapter and what's next for you, visit https://lnkd.in/dZGd6yjs

🌍 Living Abroad or Taking a Sabbatical? Here’s How to Handle Other People’s Opinions 💭 “What will others think?”* When considering a big life change, it's natural to worry about how others perceive your choices. But remember: your life is yours to live! 🛑 Acknowledge the Noise Recognize that people often project their own fears and insecurities onto your choices. What they say reflects more about them than about you. ✨ Focus on Your Values Stay true to your own values and motivations. Ask yourself: What do you want to gain from this experience? Align your decisions with your personal goals. 🌟 Seek Supportive Voices Surround yourself with people who inspire and uplift you. Engage with like-minded individuals who understand the journey of living abroad or taking a sabbatical. 🤔 Consider the Long-Term Remember, your life choices should serve your long-term happiness and growth. Those who truly care will support your journey, even if they don’t fully understand it. 💪 Embrace Your Journey Ultimately, it’s about your growth, experiences, and happiness. Don’t let others dictate your path. Live boldly and authentically! 📩 Ready to embrace your journey? Let’s chat about your plans to live abroad or take a sabbatical! Reach out directly or through my website: #LivingAbroad #MovingAbroad #Sabbatical #LifeChanges #Values

🌟 Returning to Work After Maternity Leave: A Journey of Growth and Balance 🌟 After a fulfilling maternity leave, I was excited (and a little nervous!) to step back into the professional world. Returning to work has been both rewarding and challenging in ways I didn’t fully anticipate. Balancing career goals and motherhood has introduced new layers of time management, emotional resilience, and prioritisation. Here are a few reflections on this new chapter: 🤹♀️ The Juggle is Real: From broken nights to full on meetings day, finding balance is a daily practice. It’s a reminder that perfection isn’t the goal—progress is. 💡 Adapting My Work Style: I’ve had to rethink my approach to work and productivity. Efficiency is key, but so is giving myself grace when things don’t go as planned. Some days are seamless, others are a learning curve. 💬 The Importance of Support: A big thank you to my manager Kelsey Bowden, my team, colleagues, and my husband who have been so supportive and understanding during this transition. Having a network to lean on has been invaluable. 👶 Shifting Perspectives: Motherhood has changed how I view both work and life. I’ve become more intentional about setting boundaries, but also more passionate about achieving meaningful impact in my role. To all the working parents out there navigating similar transitions—whether it’s your first time or your fifth—you are doing an amazing job. Here’s to finding balance, embracing the challenges, and building new strengths along the way! 💪 #WorkingMom #MaternityLeave #WorkLifeBalance #CareerJourney #ParenthoodAndCareers