As a mission-driven, high-achieving woman, hitting pause can feel counterintuitive. Weāre wired to create impact, to keep moving, to do. So, when I made the decision to take a two-month sabbatical for personal and family reasons, it wasnāt easy.
But what if stepping back could be the most powerful move forward?
When we allow ourselves space, we not only rechargeāwe open the door to fresh insights and renewed clarity for our next chapter. Thatās where my 5-step Art of Change Framework comes in. Grounded in the belief that life is a dance, it guides us to embrace transitions creatively and courageously. Hereās how Iām using it to navigate this sabbaticalāand how you might, too.
Step 1: Shine the Light
How do you typically respond to change?
On a scale of 1 to 10:
- ā1ā = Change scares me to death
- ā10ā = I thrive on it
Iād rate myself a 9 for change I chooseāand a 6 for change that surprises me.
Awareness is key. If your number is lower, itās a sign to reach out for supportāwhether from a coach, mentor, or your circle of wise women. Transitions are not meant to be navigated alone.
Step 2: Choose Your Dance
Focus on one transition at a time.
Even if life feels like a whirlwind, clarity comes when we choose one change to focus on. For me, itās this sabbatical. Thatās the dance Iāve chosen to learn right now.
Step 3: Feel the Rhythm, Learn the Steps
What do you need to let go of? What have past transitions taught you?
Hereās what Iām releasing:
- Scrolling and engaging on social media
- Spending 7+ hours a day on a screen
And Iām tuning into:
- The feeling of ease from being offline
- The joy of reconnecting with myself and others
Iām also reframing old beliefs, like āif Iām not busy, Iām not valuable.ā Instead, Iām choosing to see time off as fertile ground for new ideas, deeper connections, and personal growth.
Step 4: Practice, Practice, Practice
This is where intention becomes action.
Hereās how Iām embracing my sabbatical:
- š» No more than 3 hours/day on the computer
- āļø Writing only when inspired
- ā° Waking up without an alarm
- š² Trying new recipes and cooking creatively
- š§āāļø Doing yoga 3+ times/week
- šæ Walking in nature 5+ times/week
- š Spending joyful time with friends and my partner
- šāāļø Paddleboarding and swimming weekly
- š Hosting friends from away
- š§ŗ Picnicking weekly
- š§¹ Purging paper files, clothes, and clutter
- š¬ Unsubscribing from what no longer serves
- āļø Planning our winter adventure to Vietnam and Laos
These are not obligationsātheyāre invitations to nourish my mind, body, and spirit.
Step 5: Consciously Share Your Dance
Change radiates.
When we shift, others notice. Some may be inspired. Others may resist. But either way, your choice to live and lead differently creates ripples.
Throughout this sabbatical, Iāll be journaling. In the fall, Iāll share what emergedāwhat I learned, let go of, and what surprised me.
To every woman at a crossroads:
Know that taking a break isnāt stepping away from your purposeāit may be the gateway to your next bold move.
Wishing you a joyful, nourishing summer.
See you in September!
With heart,
Pam