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By Christal M. Cherry, Founder of Fabulous Female Fundraisers and CEO, The Board Pro
I just returned from a month-long "soulbattical." After several months of working tirelessly to support nonprofits and their boards, I was utterly exhausted. The persistent demand to always be "on" led to many dropped balls. While I cherish guiding and leading dedicated volunteers to support crucial missions, other priorities in my life were being neglected.
Now, after a month of rest, I feel refreshed and ready to resume my work. This time, I am committed to maintaining a steady pace, integrating time for reading, meditation, watering plants, walking my dog, exercising, journaling, and most importantly, spending time with my 14-year-old son.
Like many, I have been relentlessly pursuing career growth—supporting companies, universities, and organizations, and contributing to the nonprofit sector ecosystem. It is easy to forget the simple yet profound power of rest. Our modern work culture often glorifies the hustle, celebrating long hours and constant productivity. However, this relentless pace led to burnout, decreased creativity, and diminished overall well-being. Taking a sabbatical—a prolonged break from work—has been a transformative experience, offering a wealth of benefits that extend far beyond just rest. Here’s why prioritizing rest through a sabbatical is essential.
1. Recharging Your Mind and Body
Constant work without adequate breaks can take a significant toll on your physical and mental health. Chronic stress and overwork can lead to a host of issues, including anxiety, depression, and a weakened immune system. I struggled with insomnia and constant worry that I was not doing enough to be a successful board consultant.
A sabbatical allows you to step back, disconnect from the daily grind, and focus on rejuvenating your mind and body. Engaging in activities that bring joy, practicing mindfulness, and simply allowing yourself to rest can have profound effects on your overall health.
2. Enhancing Creativity and Innovation
Creativity thrives when given space and time to flourish. When you are constantly immersed in work, it’s challenging to find the mental bandwidth needed for creative thinking. A sabbatical offers the opportunity to explore new experiences, learn new skills, and gain fresh perspectives. During my break, I spent time working on a jigsaw puzzle, reading, adult coloring, listening to podcasts and great music, organizing my office, and visiting with family and friends.
This break from routine can lead to innovative ideas and solutions that you might not have discovered otherwise. Many successful individuals credit their most groundbreaking ideas to the time they spent away from their usual work environment.
Thankfully, I was able to complete my second children's book, Mac and Cheez, I Love Being Adopted, set for publication in November 2024. Collaborating closely with my illustrator, we created images that vividly capture the emotions of each moment. With a clear mind and a sense of purpose, I knew I was in the right frame of mind to bring this project to fruition.
Together with six other board practitioners, I am planning a conference focused on nonprofit boards. During my hiatus, I made previously unclear decisions. More companies have accepted our invitation to sponsor this significant event, affirming its necessity. Our agenda is now complete, and we are ready to offer a fantastic experience for attendees. The Board Builders Virtual Symposium will take place on Thursday, September 26, 2024, from 11 am to 6 pm EST.
3. Improving Work-Life Balance
Achieving a healthy work-life balance is a common struggle for many of us. The pressures of work can easily spill over into personal time, leading to strained relationships and neglected personal interests. A sabbatical provides the chance to reconnect with loved ones, pursue hobbies, and invest time in activities that bring fulfillment outside of work. This balance not only improves personal well-being but also enhances professional performance upon return. I am ready to get back to work, model leadership, and support organizations in building better boards!
4. Gaining New Perspectives
Travel, one of the most popular activities during a sabbatical, exposes you to distinct cultures, ideas, and ways of life. This exposure broadens your horizons and helps you see the world through a new lens. I traveled to Washington, DC, and visited the National Museum of African American History and Culture. I also visited Archive, a female-owned Black coffee shop in Charlotte, NC. Both experiences were affirming of my cultural identity and a testament to the tenacity of Black people, particularly Black women, in our country.
Whether you are exploring new destinations or immersing yourself in local communities, the experiences gained during a sabbatical can lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding of global perspectives. These insights can be invaluable in both your personal and professional life.
5. Preventing Burnout
Burnout is a pervasive issue in our workforce, characterized by chronic exhaustion, cynicism, (from politics and world events) and a sense of inefficacy. It often results from prolonged stress and overwork. A sabbatical acts as a preventive measure, giving you the time needed to recover and recharge. By addressing stress and exhaustion early on (I slept a lot), I am returning to work with renewed energy and enthusiasm, ready to tackle challenges with a fresh outlook.
6. Investing in Personal Development
A sabbatical isn’t just about rest; it’s also an opportunity for personal development. Whether you choose to take a course, volunteer, or pursue a passion project, this dedicated time can lead to significant personal and professional growth. My passion project was redecorating my family room, an open space connected to my home office. I collaborated with an interior decorator to select paint colors, furniture, lamps, candles, and plants. I configured the room three times before finding the right Zen for my comfort and peace.
Engaging in activities that challenge and inspire you can enhance your skillset, boost your confidence, and provide a sense of accomplishment that translates into your work life.
7. Fostering a Culture of Well-Being
Taking a sabbatical sets a powerful example for others in your community. It emphasizes the importance of well-being and self-care, encouraging a healthier work culture. I met with a few colleagues for lunch and dinner and encouraged them to prioritize rest. I invited a friend to join me at a “Power through Painting” event where we laughed loudly, ate, drank, and used paint to exercise our creativity.
When leaders prioritize rest and personal growth, it sends a message that success isn’t solely defined by constant productivity but also by the ability to recharge and grow as individuals. This cultural shift can lead to a more motivated, engaged, and resilient workforce.
Conclusion
In a world that often equates productivity with success, taking a sabbatical is a radical act of self-care and strategic thinking. During my break, I frequently revisited sections of Rest is Resistance by Trisia Hersey. In this insightful book, Hersey emphasizes that despite what our capitalist system espouses, our worth is not determined by how much we produce. She sheds light on our troubled relationship with rest and encourages us to envision a future where rest is valued.
Rest offers a chance to pause, reflect, and prioritize what truly matters. By embracing the power of rest through a sabbatical, you not only enhance your well-being but also set the stage for greater creativity, innovation, and long-term success. So, give yourself permission to take a break—you’ve earned it, and the benefits will extend far beyond the time you spend away.
Christal M. Cherry, The Board Pro, collaborates with leaders to model effective, inclusive, and equitable board leadership. She facilitates board retreats, speaks at conferences, recruits, and onboards board members, audits board documents, and coaches CEOs to work more harmoniously with their boards. Learn more at www.theboardpro.com.
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