Americans have been programmed to think that time off and breaks equate to laziness or not wanting to strive for more. Ironically those that have structured their lives to have more free time to enjoy family, friends and travel have figured out how to better succeed in life. Sure having a bunch of stuff is nice but how much time will you have to work to support that lifestyle. Isn't freedom something that we talk about in America yet all we do is work? Where is the freedom in that?
I am 65 years, eleven months and 31 days as of my comments. Being retired was the best thing I did. Being self-employed with two businesses doing lawn service and an audio, video, music, photo, data technology services allowed me to not take bullshit off employers. Getting up every morning was very pleasant thing to do knowing I am providing great service for others being positive and beautiful. The worst part of being self-employed is not knowing my true value pricing fees. In spite of not getting rich, the work gave me peace, joy and time to be still doing hobbies I been doing since a little girl. Now that I am retired and spending time alone, many thoughts of my past experiences allow me to be thankful, grateful for the various paths I’ve been on and through. If I had to redo and relive my life with what I now know, I would first start with making sure I would want to keep it seriously simple aka KISS. I appreciate spending time with my grandchildren. It gives me moments to see them live, grow up, do their thing. With all of the rules and regulations I grew up in and around, my grandchildren talk to me to let me know that it is ok to not be perfectly matched wearing clothes, socks, shoes, etc.. It brings me great joy to be able to remind them to do personal hygiene without spending lots of money on expensive, name brands. Watching TH-cam videos allows me to see people, places and things all from the comfort of my residence without having to spend lots of money getting into debt traveling around the world. Having credit score in the low 800’s and having money saved makes me think as to how to utilize it for the betterment of whatever and whomever. Taking time to think to continue take care of myself is of utmost importance. Being mentally and physically able-bodied these days and times is a blessing. To God be the glory for being with me and for me keeping me safe from harm. Having strength from God is also a blessing. The breathing abilities waking up each day is plenty gratitude. Thanks for reading my comments. Smiles
I did this in 2020 and I'm still on a break. After experiencing childhood trauma and toxic relationships, it was the best decision I ever made. This break allowed me to start my healing process, have a spiritual awakening and to finally let go of past trauma and depression. Timothy is right. You deserve to put yourself first. Take that time off. Travel. Isolate yourself for a while. Move away from toxic people. GO FOR IT!
I am working on my mental health from childhood trauma and my codependency. I took off five months. I am back to work a 12 week contract but really not doing well. So much healing to do. Learning to love myself. I am a nurse and really time to leave this job as it isn't good for me after 29 years.
It's so much more to life than working a job .. time is the most precious commodity we will ever get, gold, silver, money that we can always get back, but once you spend time, you can't get that back... The older I get the more I realized this
Hey Tim! I completely agree. I have designed my life in such a way that I can quit anytime I want. I am an English teacher in Japan. No student loans, no credit card debt, no mortgage. Nothing. I often tell people that I have designed my life so that I only work jobs that I enjoy. If I don't like my job I dash. Fortunately I love my job and have no stress. I have a 20 minute walk to work and don't need a car so my cost of living is super low. I have been saving money for years so I could take several years off if I want. Hah hah hah I only work because I like my job.
I've had the exact same experience. Some of those times, I had no money saved and it was a terrifying leap, but every time I've done it, it turned out to be a huge blessing.
Completely agree, Tim. The only thing working oneself to the bone does is wear you out. And if you do that, you probably won't be in any shape to enjoy any "time off" you do get. The goal here is to actually LIVE, not work. Your work should only be there to support the life you WANT to live, not the other way around.
@@RobertSmith-jd6wb no, you don't. We choose to work ourselves silly, but it's not required. I know for me, working myself half to death has never actually brought about better circumstances so that I could afford something. I'll give a very recent example from my own experiences. My [now ex] partner / roommate / business partner and I moved into a new place roughly 6 months ago. It is absolutely better than where we were living in every way - big yard with privacy fencing so we and our dogs can enjoy the outdoors in peace and safety, enough distance between this house and the neighbors to feel like there's actual privacy, NO carpet (only beautiful hardwood floors that make keeping the house clean and fresh-smelling so much easier), a huge garage & bonus room on the bottom level, a beautiful old neighborhood full of trees and nature with NO HOA, close to the commercial space we lease for our business (the old place was more than an hour away), no need to get on the interstate for most of what we need, lots of hiking trails nearby and the mountains not that far away, within 30 minutes of my sister's home, traffic isn't terrible, and the list of positives goes on. Only thing is, it's $500 more per month than the place we used to live. But with both of us working we could manage it. Fast-forward to about a month ago, he starts acting weirder than he ever has. He would go to work or an event or to hang out with people and not come back for days at a time. When he eventually did rage out about it, he blamed it on our dogs (saying he was tired of them always barking and taking over his life, even though they don't actually bark that much and I was the one caring for them 95% of the time because I work from home) and he blamed it on me for not wanting to rehome them. Then a few days later he made up some BS story about going hiking with "friends" and completely disappeared for pretty much 2 weeks. During that time he didn't communicate, didn't send any financial support for the bills or house maintenance or dogs - nothing. I made the decision that he needed to move out. He has Narcissistic Personality Disorder, and I'm just tired of dealing with the emotional (and occasionally physical) abuse after 9 years. Getting him.out has been an entire ordeal in itself, but now I'm responsible for the entire rent amount as well as all of the utilities, groceries, care for the dogs etc. I make $2,400 a month, and now I'm looking at having to pay $1,950 for the rent alone by myself. That would only leave me $450 for power, water gas, internet, trash, groceries, dog food, gas for my SUV and the lawn mower, and anything else I need. Sounds like the kind of situation where I should be picking up another job or 2, right? Actually, nope. When we work until we're beyond exhaustion, there's no energy left for the kind of creative thinking that could help to pull us out of a situation like this. If I went out and found another job or 2, I might be able to afford this place more comfortably, but I'd literally never have the time or energy to enjoy the place I'm working so hard to afford. And I'd never have the energy to sit down and figure out how to work smarter rather than harder. I'd just be in this cycle of work, fast food, and sleep, with barely any time or energy to clean, wash my clothes, spend with my dogs, or make healthier choices. So instead, I'm developing a plan that will help me work smarter rather than harder. This plan includes developing multiple streams of income from related / overlapping ventures. My business (which the ex has been legally removed from) is a regenerative farm, and I'm a farmer. So on the basic side of things, I'll be bringing in income from the food I produce on the farm. But why not start a TH-cam channel to help teach others about what I do? And why not recommend good quality products, books, feed etc that I use on the farm every day and earn commission from those recommendations? Why not design a few shirts and hats people can purchase to support the farm? If I already have a flock of chickens and I'm selling eggs for people to eat, why not also sell eggs people can hatch themselves, or baby chicks or breeding adult chickens people can purchase to start their own homesteads or farms? Why not create a couple of interactive online courses to teach certain aspects of regenerative farming in more detail? If I worked myself to death out of fear of not being able to afford this place on my own, I'd never have the time or energy to build out all of these streams of income. I probably wouldn't have had the energy to even think up the ideas for them. And I know these ideas are very specific to what I do, but they're just meant to be examples. Find something you love that doesn't feel like the bad kind of work, then take some time to sit down and figure out a few different ways you can make money from it. The wonderful thing about social media is that you can find a community of people who are interested in almost everything under the sun. So somewhere out there is a community willing to watch videos, read articles, listen to podcasts, and buy stuff around your interest. You just have to take the time to think it out so you can do and get more from less effort. And yeah, it might take a while to get your ideas going if you work full-time or have to save up for certain things. But in a LOT of cases, you can sit down in front of your phone, press record, and talk about something you have a lot of knowledge and / or passion about just like Tim and so many others do. Some of the best and most popular channels out there are just talking head videos. It's just them and a phone, talking about life or finances or how to do something or vlogging their travels. And starting a channel can lead to other ways to build out your multiple streams of income. Being a TH-camr or influencer is not necessarily for everybody, but it's definitely one of the fastest and easiest things you can start that has the potential to really set you up well. Start slowly if that's all you can do, but figure out how to combine related ideas to start bringing in more income from less effort. I'd MUCH rather spend my days at home working this way than killing myself working for companies that don't give a crap about me.
@@InaStanley83 thank you so much for chiming in. I understood your key 🔑 points even though I didn’t have the time to read all of that. It hurt my eyes 👀 but I’m not complaining. I learned speed reading in the 5th grade 30 years ago
@@PraveenSrJ01 I get it, and if you're busy or something I get not having much time to read a longer comment. Most of the time if I feel the need to respond to something, it's not a short post. I'm not sure when, but somehow people began to connect the internet and social media with the idea that only quick responses are valid, and any "long" response isn't valid or worth the time to read or is preaching or whatever. I feel like this has contributed to reduced connection with others. If I spoke that comment out loud it would fit right into a normal conversation. It would probably only take a minute tops (probably less) if I read it out loud. If you viewed it on a larger screen it wouldn't take up an entire page, but we've all been trained to accept and tolerate less in terms of communication. Either way, hope it helps give someone food for thought. 😊
This video came at a good time. Burned out severely and am so tired of the hamster wheel. Sometimes it just helps to listen to someone who relates to on such a real level. Thanks for your videos.
8 months and counting, not alarm, no boss, no ratrace, but only using my time to learn what I love to learn, and work out. Money has been mitigated by going minimalist, which is not for every one, but it is an absolute blessing if you can.
That thing you mention about how you're always thinking about work, no matter what you do -- I call that the rat race, always in a hurry mentality. Like, feeling the need to drive fast, to grocery shop fast, to get good sleep just because I have to perform at work the next day.
I wanted to retire early but I won’t be able to afford it. So I’m working towards saving enough money so I can take a sabbatical in 2 years. I am literally counting down the weeks until 2025. I’m so burned out.
After working 6 1/2 years for a company and only taking two one-week vacations I left at the end of 2011. I went across the country amd spent 2 1/2 months hiking, sight seeing, and beach drinking. TOTAL LIFE CHANGER. I will never live for my job ever again, I now work to live and have non negotionable boundries with my time I refuse to allow to compromise
I took time off recently because of mental illness. Absolutely this is what happened. I started to get to know my true self. It was only for about 1.5 months, so I believe it just scratched the service. I wish I could take off a year or even two.
I needed this video. I’m 27 and I just quit my 8:30-4:30 office job and going back to my old seasonal job. It pays less but at least I’ll still get to pay my bills and enjoy nature. I just can’t do Mon - Fri and follow unfair office politics.
Completely agree Tim I’m 28 and promised my self to always take a break. My first job out of university I left after a year and took an 8 month break. I then worked for 3 years straight and have been “on a break” for almost two years now. I say on a break but this has included a couple of freelance contracts. I don’t have anything at the moment so I’m looking for full time work again but my plan is always to work for a few years and quit again lol 😂
Thank you Tim. This is exactly the message that I needed to hear today. Our society has us brainwashed to believe we are wrong/bad/crazy for wanting to take time off to enjoy our life. We are expected to be happy with our little 1-2 week vacations and feel “rested” from that little pittance of time off. I hope more people will take “sabbaticals” to make it the norm.
@@duanekaaz3159 I called out of work today since I needed a mental health day for myself and it will probably be an unexcused absence but fortunately my job isn’t currently in jeopardy
That's the beauty of minimalism. Bills are low. You save a lot of money and can take 6 months off. Even a year off. Without anyone's permission. That's freedom.
Man...sometimes the Universe just sends the MOST direct messages possible when you need them. I have been debating taking a break for a long time now and finally have the financial and life situation to do so. Very much needed to hear this, brother...thanks for the message. Much love.
Wow! That’s what I just did. I didn’t realize how much shame I was holding about it until your affable face appeared and encouraged it. Thank you so much! I’ve never felt so good about my decision. Truly you are a blessing. ✌🏽💚☺️
I agree completely Timothy. Probably 40years ago I was working on an intense project for a company. Everything we had created was about to be shipped cross country, and upon my request to the company I worked for said I could take 3 weeks off. It was an incredible adventure. Change my life forever. Took off in car to visit friends halfway across the country with no schedule or plans. Camped off desert side roads and took a turn up a dirt road onto a native American reservation, where I received permission to be one of a few hikers allowed to visit. Walked barefoot through a stream with backpack on and camera available. Arrived late in evening and was assigned a place to camp and told to all meet by our native guide, who was a graduate of Berkely and now park ranger. We met to celebrate the solstice in an underground space with hot rocks and steam. Our guide sang and chanted in native tongue. Next day climbed up ladders up to an ancient cliff dwelling and received an amazing blessing. Quite a spiritual experience. Came back with new incites... a big boost in creativity, and all work became much more fun. Will never forget the experience. 3 weeks was enough.
Tim, i took 6 months off last year!! It was amazing!! I stayed in my home area, took all the nature walks I want❤❤❤I was gung-ho at work afterwards lol I actually appreciate work and my relationships, made good health a priority. I felt guilty a Lil to lol but I encourage those who can to do it, yes!!!
Doing the exact same thing at 49, it is absolutely life changing! To get out of the rat race, actually live for a while and turn the alarm clock off is priceless.
Yes Tim!! I’m a trucker and there’s ALWAYS hundreds of jobs available…I’m going use that as my advantage and take MINI Retirements whenever I feel like it!! No longer committing myself to no job for years,say what you want!
Tim, I tendered my resignation on New Year 2023, yet I’m STILL currently at my job. You were right about people being too afraid of the idea of not making money. I’ve been postponing my last day at work TWICE since resigning, precisely because I can’t get over the fact that I won’t be making the usual money I’ve been making for the past 7.5 years. The thing is, I actually have enough savings to not work for at least a few years, yet I was still AFRAID of the idea of not having a salary coming in each month. It doesn’t make sense, but as you said, us humans do not make sense sometimes. This video of yours is a sign. I’m looking forward to my last working day in mid-June. Because now I know I'll be okay. Thank you, Tim. The world is slightly a better place with the wisdom you put out.
Fear of a grizzly bear is real. Fear of peace and joy and freedom is a mental block, a shadow, a false construct, a hypnotic suggestion planted by the establishment.
I've never taken half a year off, but I did take a month off with pay back in March of '23. It was probably one of the greatest months of my adult life. The first two weeks felt weird because I had to learn to think for myself and not go to a job, but after that, I was starting to forget that I even had a job. I can't imagine what more time would have done.
I don't have enough money to take months off at a time, but I make sure I plan to do things here and there to break up the monotony of working all the time. I realized I no longer wanted to be a Manager after being one for 5 years. I was constantly worried about things and couldn't leave my work at work. Now working non-management, making less money, but the reduction in stress does wonders for my mental health! Take care Tim💕
Very smart! I had an old manager who was trying to groom me to be his replacement, I polished my resume the day he admitted that to me. I'm not taking on that stress, hell no!
@@richradtylr4 Most people in this country (USA) live paycheck to paycheck. The wages do not keep up with the cost of living. I'd rather have less stress, than make more money. That was one of my points in my previous statement. I've made more money, it's not worth it.
Work is what it is. Work. Time spent with yourself is precious. Growth happens when we tend to our needs. Abundance is the key to being able to have the time and resources to be kind to the self
I hate when you look for a job and they ask you specifically what did you do during this time period like if it's only for a month or two, seems so personal to me lol , you have really helped me with your videos ! Thank you so much . Blessings do come when we really need it, that is so accurate
I’m working my ass off right now to pay off my debt. But once I pay that off hopefully in the next few months, I’m getting back to travel and going to find a job in another state/country so I can keep my travel bug happy! My break is coming, it’s what motivating me right now to work as much as possible because I know my break is coming!
I've been off for 1yr and a few months now. I will say that at first I lost apart of my identity because I've been working since I was 15 and I'm 34 now.. So down time was hard in the beginning, i also felt guilty and even lied to ppl about my work schedule etc. Now, I preach it.. We really only live once on this side and why waste it stressing (silent killer) or trying to make a better life for everyone else but ourselves..
Our parents think living is working a job for 30-40 years for a pension and a gold watch at retirement. I’m thinking about taking a sabbatical too! I’ve got the money to live without working for years.
I am definitely interested in this. I do not believe we are meant to work our whole lives. I will say, having an easier job when I was teaching in Asia was nice. Lots of breaks and time away from work. Gives you time to see life differently. I do not believe in the constant “grind”. Our bodies are not meant to keep grinding every day (especially women). We all need rest, mentally, physically, and emotionally.
When I was 35, the company I worked for was sold and we all received pretty large "pay and stay" bonuses to remain throughout the transition. My family wanted me to save that, invest it, etc. But as I had been working since I was 15, I wanted something better. I took a year off. Studied things that intrigued me, woke naturally every morning, wrote stories, visited my favourite diner and sat on the covered patio in the rain, watching the world go by. It was glorious. I'm 53 now and don't regret it one iota. To this day, I take time off anytime I can. I'm incandescently happy not working. Boredom baffles me. And so many friends and family members said they could never take that much time off, citing boredom or a need to do things, lol. I did things every day. I bought fresh produce, made lovely meals because I had the energy every day, I did so much but some of the best days were when I did very little, or nothing. But I was alive, and present, and it was GLORIOUS. Take time off whenever you can. And don't schedule the day, or look to fill the time.
You're 100% right Tim. Blessings sent from the U.K. Many years ago I was working in a job with so many negative people and 'spiritual vampires'. A friend of mine said "Do you wanna join me and cycle down the PCH from Seattle to Los Angeles? He then put a map on my coffee table. After some hesitation I shook his hand and said 'Yes'! - I handed in my notice from my job. We had a leaving party in a local pub and got on a flight to Seattle with our bikes and backpacks on board. It was a Life changing experience! We stayed in hostels, camped in fields and on the beach. I met So, So many people, great conversations, friends and memories made. I remember having a feeling of TRULY living and experiencing life! I hope someone will take encouragement from your video and take the break they truly deserve. Thanks for the great content over all these years. Every Blessing Sent Tim. Best Regards and God Bless you Brother. Paul.
@@katashley1031 Hi Kat, you're right, I think it would be an inspiring book. One of the many memories was setting up a tent on Leo Carrillo State Beach and at night, making a pillow out of the sand and waking up to see 'glowing lights' in the ocean. It was just incredible! I found out it's called bioluminescence a rare natural phenomena. Btw, the bike that I used to ride over a thousand miles, (a Kona Cinder Cone) I eventually sold to an American Lady at a hostel in West Hollywood... I'd love to know where that bike is now! 🤔😊 Thanks for your lovely comment Kat Blessings sent Paul 😎
My mom said that you spend less money when you are not working. Come to think of it, that is true. The last time I was unemployed was 1998, I had less wants when I was not working.
It's this fear of not being able to get back into the workforce. I know I can take a break, and I'm planning to, but part of my brain insists that if I take time off work, no one will ever hire me again. ... It's a little ridiculous, once I type it out, haha
It's scary. Cause u end up homeless and life ruined if the money stops. I just love Freedom here in the good old USA. I Feel Free everyday when that alarm clock goes off and I get to face another day in the meat shredder. 😂
Tim it took me 1.5 years to get back into working then got let go again! The devastation from drinking the kool-aid, giving companies power over my sense of security- needed a break to reprogram
I worked so hard all through my 20’s. I’m financially ok. I took 6 months off twice in the last few years, now on my third work break and I love the free time. I sure don’t feel guilty about it. Cheers.
Couldn't agree more. After years of traveling and working, I am planning on taking a few years off of work around the start of next year and just focusing on learning Spanish and getting better at making videos and commentaries.
Totally agree Tim! After I got laid off in 2020 due to covid I've been taking breaks from work very frequently. Had enough money saved up to not worry about that and just... lived my life. Sometimes for a few months, sometimes half a year to a year. And if an interesting job popped up I'd do that for a while, then go back to living again. I need that balance in my life I can't work 9-5 five days a week for the rest of my life man.
💯Facts Tim! This message is timely and l’m enjoying my time off with no regrets! I quit my job with no savings, but I definitely manifested that money would come to me and it did. I’m so grateful. Stay safe!
I planned and saved for a year before leaving my comfortable government job and transitioned to remote work in 2022. Honestly, it hasn't been easy and I'm still figuring it out but taking this time to ramp up my self care, slow down, work different (self employed, flexible schedule, part time, etc) has been such a blessing! Even if I do have to go back to being a wage slave, it'll be different. I'm rested, empowered and eyes wide open now! Can't go backwards! If you can create any type of break for yourself, I would highly recommend it.
I have a Job that Pays me $18 an Hour, it’s a 5am-2pm Job and get my weekends off to myself. But stress is Too high and Don’t get help when I am Over tasked. I gave them my 2 weeks, but Reconsidered To stay until the end of year. (got 6 months left) so I am Starting to plan now for 2024. Decided to Focus 100% on myself and my Health. Gym is my Priority and Traveling is in my Bucket. This Job Sucked my Soul and left me Dead inside. Coming from a Military Background in Marine Corps. It Goes against all my Beliefs and Emotions to quit a Job… but I need to do what’s right for my Mental Health and Wellness. God gave me this Body and I want to treat myself Correctly and Just be happy and Throw the stress away. I want to bust my Butt before the year ends so I can have the Financial Freedom and Make Big moves next year and So what makes me Happy
I just turned 50. Worked 25 years as a computer programmer until I got completly burnt out. I decided to use my savings and took the year off. This is the best decision I made in my life. Now starting to recover bit by bit. I also manged to create passive income out of trading in the stock market so for now it looks like I'm not in a hurry to get back to work. Life now is much better, got plenty of time to do things that I always dreamt of. I spend lots of time in nature, meditating.
I don’t know where I would be without taking breaks here and there! One thing that initially drew me to teaching was the idea of two months off every summer!! 🤣 And now, while not teaching anymore, I’ve realized that I do best with a couple months off a year and my gosh it is due time for a break!!! Thank you Tim! I agree! As a society we need to normalize the sabbatical… the adult gap year… mental health days or weeks.. all of it! 💖
Yes! I miss that about teaching! I’m a social worker now (for the time being) and we don’t get those breaks. Matter of fact, we only get like 5 holidays off a year. I miss those teacher breaks, but I know this current job is just a stepping stone for something better. But I can take PTO when I want.
I think Covid taught us this too! I’ve been hustling and grinding for years and once 2020 happened and I couldn’t work I realize how much I NEEDED a break. I noticed that we’ve been so conditioned to be work horses that it took a pandemic to slow us down and make us realize wtf is going on. Great video. Thank you for sharing 🙏
I just got laid off from my cushy corporate job of 7 years. I am simultaneously nervous and relieved, anxious and thankful. It's almost like being let out of prison. You no longer have the comforting promise of fixed mealtimes, guaranteed shelter, predictable routine, and that can be really disorienting. But now, you're not in a fucking cage. Still not sure what my next step is. Trying to calm myself and have the confidence to take a minute to relax and release, rather than following the nervous instinct of taking the first possible job I can find.
My man... So, when 2023 began, I outright walked out of my job. Just told my boss "I'm done. Just mail my check." It was a HUGE risk. The following six months were filled with prospects I only dreamed of during my 'time off.' I looked into business, put my writing skills out there, began my animation journey and FINALLY started a youtube channel. Despite all that, I've made absolutely no money from it, and I know it's time to get back to work. To whom it may concern; If you follow the same path as Timothy or I, and it doesn't work out the first time, if your business or side hustle fails... breathe. Breathe, dust of those work boots, clean those tools and work to plan your next big break. We have much more life to live than we realize. Never let one failed business venture stop you. Hustle on, Tim. Stay strong.💪
Thank you so much for sharing your experience! It good to hear that you had 6 months filled with so many good experiences. And I love your attitude about going back to work.
@@TimothyWard Well, my attitude towards work was destroyed and developed off and on for decades. Eventually, I realized we should use the '9 to 5' as leverage for our true goals. Living beneath one's means is both humbling and very, VERY useful. Wouldn't you say?
The past few years have made me realise that my happiness is the most important, not trying to be as good as my money driven family who see me as a failure for not having my own house, not owning a new car etc. I’d rather see the world. I’ve suffered long enough and need a break to keep me alive. Thanks Tim.
I have to say I agree getting away from the daily grind of doing the same old thing over and over again can get so tiring you need to give yourself a good long break it does wonders for your physical and mental health😊
“We can’t live our lives in fear of what if”. This is a great sentence. I think that when we run out of time we won’t regret things we have done but things we havent done. Yeah it sounds a bit cheesy but i think it’s absolutely true
I love this topic! Thanks for posting. I think so many other countries really prioritize life in this way. They allow for longer vacations as the norm and people don’t have to worry about making a negative impact on their jobs or worry as much about money. I hope the US can get there….
Quit my high paying job in management a couple months ago and it honestly was the best decision. It’s giving me time to really process and understand who I am without the stressors of thinking about work every day. If you’re on the fence about it people, I wont lie it will be scary at first but you will thank yourself in the long run.
Hey Tim talk about it more ♥️♥️♥️🥳 My family gets questions about what I’m doing and I think it triggers embarrassment or protection! Lucky to have family that supports me here. Also wanting to normalize this for my family so bring on the discussion
I love your videos Timothy. I’m homeless 23 female and a lot of the thing you say I have been doing and saying for a couple years. My life situation is getting better and better, your words of wisdom keep me going.
I've been thinking about it every day for the last 4 months. I was hoping to be laid off😂 I have the savings to quit and enjoy this summer. However, I feel uncomfortable like Tim was saying...ashamed. Also, I'm very afraid not being able to find a job like this. No purpose but an easy and ok compensated job with low stress. I would do it today, but because of my kids, I would still not be able to travel during the sabbatical as I would want. I feel privileged but sooo stuck!
Honestly, I've thought about this so many times over the last 2-3 years but I'm worried that it would be harder for me to get another job once I come back from that time off. I'm also worried that I'll lose everything I've tried so hard to get like my apartment and want to continue doing the things that I was doing before without having to worry about the financial part of it. Also, even though I'm adult, my parents worry about me constantly and wouldn't let me relax if I quit my job without a plan. But ya, taking an extended vacation would serve me well since my job has been terrible and I really need to do a hard reset on everything.
Well done, Tim, with lots of deep thought! On two of my breaks, I sold most of my furniture, moved in with roommates, adopted a rescue dog, decluttered my spending habits, and stopped trying to keep up with others’ accomplishments and acquisitions. I’ve never been more content. Working on longer-term goals, one step at a time.
That’s amazing and so on point in many ways. My current approach is taking 2 months in between each seasonal work period and I take that time to spend more time with those that are understanding and more respectful and on my passions travel project. In order to fund it, I have investments for about 4-5 years now and am working on side passive income as a Shutterstock contributor and hopefully a contributor in BlackBox (for stock media). And I got to say, I’d love to do more of that. If any of you all got advice, that’s cool too. But anyway best of life to you all. And wish me the best too. ❤
I’m on the brink of doing this…I’m going through a major life change…the end of an unhealthy relationship and I’m struggling to keep it together and show up with my best foot forward at work, for my kids, and most importantly, for myself…. So I’m going to do it… I need the break and I deserve the break…
I was laid off for about for 4 months from the AMNH in 2020. I rested for 4 months going to the beach on a daily basis. When the museum called all laid off employees back, I didn't want to return, honestly. In any case, I returned to the museum only to find myself forced to resign a few weeks later for something I didn't do. I was the scapegoat for the hiring manager who needed to make sure that he CAUGHT THE BOOGEYMAN, so to speak. I was heartbroken. I love the AMNH. I miss working there and all the friends I made in almost two years at the cultural institution.
Like i said before in different posts. If you have some money or go living "base" parents house, and take long big breath? Go for it. Trust me, universe will make all good things for you if you start living present not the past not the future, just be!
I'd definitely want to continue with this dialogue. I've been tossing this idea around for the past 3 years! I actually took a 2 month sabbatical and it was great. I wish it was something I could do every year, but 3 months would be the sweet spot. We have new management now and it's unlikely that will be permitted again. However, I have the cash in the bank to be able to comfortably take that 3 months. It's so difficult to make that decision and let go of a good paying remote job but damn does it feel so liberating, envisioning myself pulling the trigger. Part of my hesitation is because I lack the confidence in finding another job because I am horrible at interviews! I am at the point though, that I wouldn't mind working a seasonal job doing something completely different just to reset my mind. I might feel some remorse when finally making that decision but I also risk regret for not making that decision. Also, as you mentioned, I do feel like my identity has been associated with work all these years. I've been questioning who I really am a lot lately. Something is off and sometimes I attribute it to depression, anxiety. Curious if others who do this, pay for health insurance out of pocket during this sabbatical or just wait until they get back into the workforce?
8:11 Nope it’s not just you! 😂 I took what was supposed to be 3 months off and ended up being almost 6 months total and it was absolutely the best. Time is precious and valuable! We do not get more time which makes it perhaps one of the most important things we can give ourselves. The ability to slow down, think, rest, relax, do the things we actually enjoy and love cause IF we’re honest it’s not work 😂 The ability to rejuvenate and regroup mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually should not be optional but necessary.
Took off a year to learn a new skill Worked in that field for 25 plus years Retired at 60 and travelled overseas Acquiring a 22 ft sailboat Pushing to activate a freedom dividend so more and more people can live their best life not tomorrow but right now today cheers
I'm 42 years old HVAC Technician. No wife or kids. Single, not many friends. I have a friend I hang out with but I go months weeks without social contact then I come out of the house. I'm always working, but I haven't been on vacation in 7 years. I need a break and to get away. I'm definitely a lone wolf, but even I need social contact time to time.
I'm thinking of doing it! Thank you for saying it "fear and guilt of not earning", damn programming. Fuh, plan to submit my resignation with 2 months notice tomorrow. Wish me luck!
I think you hit on something Tim, thats what i been trying to figure out since I left Calif before covid hit in 2020. Figuring out what my identity was,what i truly wanted my life to be about..In this video you made for us today you talk about designing your life..How you want it to be..Thats what I been trying to do...Design the life ive always wanted!! Thanks Brother for fleshing out what I been thinking of but didnt have the words for it..Appreciate you Tim!!
I took 1.5 years off from working and I loved it but it also made me appreciate working. I’d do it again but I don’t think I could do more than 6-12 months
This is a fantastic video and topic, Tim. I've been pondering this so much over the last couple of years. I take a week off of my busy season at work each year and hit the road on a solo road trip to clear my mind and explore new roads. But lately I've been daydreaming of just pulling the plug from work and taking an entire summer or 6 months off to just slow travel or even also just spending some downtime at home.
Discovered your videos bout 2 days! And came at a perfect time in my life where I need to change my life! “Chasing the joneses” is exhausting and killing me and time I put my health, family and nature the centre of my life! Big love from me here in England, UK 🇬🇧 keep up the great vids
I had a coworker years ago who actually recommended me doing this. He told me, “Save up money and take 6 months off working. Once you do it, try doing it often. It’s not impossible to do” But now it’s years later, in the present time, and I’m truly debating on doing it. Working non stop every week for years can take a toll on a persons mind, body and life.
When I turned 50 years old I took my entire year off it was a 50-year jubilee. Every six years I take a sabbath year of rest. It's all about the budget.
That's marveslous! I took a year off at 35. I'm 53 now and haven't since then, but I do work from home part time now. It's a wonderful positive shift. I love your plan.
Americans have been programmed to think that time off and breaks equate to laziness or not wanting to strive for more. Ironically those that have structured their lives to have more free time to enjoy family, friends and travel have figured out how to better succeed in life. Sure having a bunch of stuff is nice but how much time will you have to work to support that lifestyle. Isn't freedom something that we talk about in America yet all we do is work? Where is the freedom in that?
AMEN!!!
💡
That is sad 😞 and I don’t want to be part of the majority of Americans who work, work, work.
Exactly!
I am 65 years, eleven months and 31 days as of my comments. Being retired was the best thing I did. Being self-employed with two businesses doing lawn service and an audio, video, music, photo, data technology services allowed me to not take bullshit off employers. Getting up every morning was very pleasant thing to do knowing I am providing great service for others being positive and beautiful. The worst part of being self-employed is not knowing my true value pricing fees. In spite of not getting rich, the work gave me peace, joy and time to be still doing hobbies I been doing since a little girl. Now that I am retired and spending time alone, many thoughts of my past experiences allow me to be thankful, grateful for the various paths I’ve been on and through. If I had to redo and relive my life with what I now know, I would first start with making sure I would want to keep it seriously simple aka KISS. I appreciate spending time with my grandchildren. It gives me moments to see them live, grow up, do their thing. With all of the rules and regulations I grew up in and around, my grandchildren talk to me to let me know that it is ok to not be perfectly matched wearing clothes, socks, shoes, etc.. It brings me great joy to be able to remind them to do personal hygiene without spending lots of money on expensive, name brands. Watching TH-cam videos allows me to see people, places and things all from the comfort of my residence without having to spend lots of money getting into debt traveling around the world. Having credit score in the low 800’s and having money saved makes me think as to how to utilize it for the betterment of whatever and whomever. Taking time to think to continue take care of myself is of utmost importance. Being mentally and physically able-bodied these days and times is a blessing. To God be the glory for being with me and for me keeping me safe from harm. Having strength from God is also a blessing. The breathing abilities waking up each day is plenty gratitude. Thanks for reading my comments. Smiles
I did this in 2020 and I'm still on a break. After experiencing childhood trauma and toxic relationships, it was the best decision I ever made. This break allowed me to start my healing process, have a spiritual awakening and to finally let go of past trauma and depression. Timothy is right. You deserve to put yourself first. Take that time off. Travel. Isolate yourself for a while. Move away from toxic people. GO FOR IT!
I agree with all that except the spiritual awakening part. A real spiritual awakening is usually demonic in origin.
I am working on my mental health from childhood trauma and my codependency. I took off five months. I am back to work a 12 week contract but really not doing well. So much healing to do. Learning to love myself. I am a nurse and really time to leave this job as it isn't good for me after 29 years.
Sounds like mid life. Well done on the self-care!
who pays your bills and buys food tho? Break from 9-5 is pointless unless you have something else to bring you money in
@@Miszkaright. Everyone seems to have the answers financially but they aren’t telling us how to have a income without working
It's so much more to life than working a job .. time is the most precious commodity we will ever get, gold, silver, money that we can always get back, but once you spend time, you can't get that back... The older I get the more I realized this
Hey Tim! I completely agree. I have designed my life in such a way that I can quit anytime I want. I am an English teacher in Japan. No student loans, no credit card debt, no mortgage. Nothing. I often tell people that I have designed my life so that I only work jobs that I enjoy. If I don't like my job I dash. Fortunately I love my job and have no stress. I have a 20 minute walk to work and don't need a car so my cost of living is super low. I have been saving money for years so I could take several years off if I want. Hah hah hah I only work because I like my job.
How do you find jobs you like? I am in mississippi.
I've said it before, but every time I've quit a terrible job, I always find something better in my life. Life just seems to work out!
I've had the exact same experience. Some of those times, I had no money saved and it was a terrifying leap, but every time I've done it, it turned out to be a huge blessing.
Same
Precisely.
Agreed❤
That is reaffirming to hear. Thank you.
I did this a few years ago when I got laid off luckily I saved up 10k at the time and lived with my parents it was so freeing just to focus on me
Completely agree, Tim. The only thing working oneself to the bone does is wear you out. And if you do that, you probably won't be in any shape to enjoy any "time off" you do get. The goal here is to actually LIVE, not work. Your work should only be there to support the life you WANT to live, not the other way around.
Exactly!!!!
I really need to keep what you said in mind 😊
@@RobertSmith-jd6wb no, you don't. We choose to work ourselves silly, but it's not required. I know for me, working myself half to death has never actually brought about better circumstances so that I could afford something. I'll give a very recent example from my own experiences.
My [now ex] partner / roommate / business partner and I moved into a new place roughly 6 months ago. It is absolutely better than where we were living in every way - big yard with privacy fencing so we and our dogs can enjoy the outdoors in peace and safety, enough distance between this house and the neighbors to feel like there's actual privacy, NO carpet (only beautiful hardwood floors that make keeping the house clean and fresh-smelling so much easier), a huge garage & bonus room on the bottom level, a beautiful old neighborhood full of trees and nature with NO HOA, close to the commercial space we lease for our business (the old place was more than an hour away), no need to get on the interstate for most of what we need, lots of hiking trails nearby and the mountains not that far away, within 30 minutes of my sister's home, traffic isn't terrible, and the list of positives goes on. Only thing is, it's $500 more per month than the place we used to live. But with both of us working we could manage it.
Fast-forward to about a month ago, he starts acting weirder than he ever has. He would go to work or an event or to hang out with people and not come back for days at a time. When he eventually did rage out about it, he blamed it on our dogs (saying he was tired of them always barking and taking over his life, even though they don't actually bark that much and I was the one caring for them 95% of the time because I work from home) and he blamed it on me for not wanting to rehome them. Then a few days later he made up some BS story about going hiking with "friends" and completely disappeared for pretty much 2 weeks. During that time he didn't communicate, didn't send any financial support for the bills or house maintenance or dogs - nothing. I made the decision that he needed to move out. He has Narcissistic Personality Disorder, and I'm just tired of dealing with the emotional (and occasionally physical) abuse after 9 years. Getting him.out has been an entire ordeal in itself, but now I'm responsible for the entire rent amount as well as all of the utilities, groceries, care for the dogs etc. I make $2,400 a month, and now I'm looking at having to pay $1,950 for the rent alone by myself. That would only leave me $450 for power, water gas, internet, trash, groceries, dog food, gas for my SUV and the lawn mower, and anything else I need. Sounds like the kind of situation where I should be picking up another job or 2, right?
Actually, nope. When we work until we're beyond exhaustion, there's no energy left for the kind of creative thinking that could help to pull us out of a situation like this. If I went out and found another job or 2, I might be able to afford this place more comfortably, but I'd literally never have the time or energy to enjoy the place I'm working so hard to afford. And I'd never have the energy to sit down and figure out how to work smarter rather than harder. I'd just be in this cycle of work, fast food, and sleep, with barely any time or energy to clean, wash my clothes, spend with my dogs, or make healthier choices.
So instead, I'm developing a plan that will help me work smarter rather than harder. This plan includes developing multiple streams of income from related / overlapping ventures. My business (which the ex has been legally removed from) is a regenerative farm, and I'm a farmer. So on the basic side of things, I'll be bringing in income from the food I produce on the farm. But why not start a TH-cam channel to help teach others about what I do? And why not recommend good quality products, books, feed etc that I use on the farm every day and earn commission from those recommendations? Why not design a few shirts and hats people can purchase to support the farm? If I already have a flock of chickens and I'm selling eggs for people to eat, why not also sell eggs people can hatch themselves, or baby chicks or breeding adult chickens people can purchase to start their own homesteads or farms? Why not create a couple of interactive online courses to teach certain aspects of regenerative farming in more detail?
If I worked myself to death out of fear of not being able to afford this place on my own, I'd never have the time or energy to build out all of these streams of income. I probably wouldn't have had the energy to even think up the ideas for them. And I know these ideas are very specific to what I do, but they're just meant to be examples. Find something you love that doesn't feel like the bad kind of work, then take some time to sit down and figure out a few different ways you can make money from it. The wonderful thing about social media is that you can find a community of people who are interested in almost everything under the sun. So somewhere out there is a community willing to watch videos, read articles, listen to podcasts, and buy stuff around your interest. You just have to take the time to think it out so you can do and get more from less effort. And yeah, it might take a while to get your ideas going if you work full-time or have to save up for certain things. But in a LOT of cases, you can sit down in front of your phone, press record, and talk about something you have a lot of knowledge and / or passion about just like Tim and so many others do. Some of the best and most popular channels out there are just talking head videos. It's just them and a phone, talking about life or finances or how to do something or vlogging their travels. And starting a channel can lead to other ways to build out your multiple streams of income. Being a TH-camr or influencer is not necessarily for everybody, but it's definitely one of the fastest and easiest things you can start that has the potential to really set you up well. Start slowly if that's all you can do, but figure out how to combine related ideas to start bringing in more income from less effort. I'd MUCH rather spend my days at home working this way than killing myself working for companies that don't give a crap about me.
@@InaStanley83 thank you so much for chiming in. I understood your key 🔑 points even though I didn’t have the time to read all of that. It hurt my eyes 👀 but I’m not complaining. I learned speed reading in the 5th grade 30 years ago
@@PraveenSrJ01 I get it, and if you're busy or something I get not having much time to read a longer comment. Most of the time if I feel the need to respond to something, it's not a short post. I'm not sure when, but somehow people began to connect the internet and social media with the idea that only quick responses are valid, and any "long" response isn't valid or worth the time to read or is preaching or whatever. I feel like this has contributed to reduced connection with others. If I spoke that comment out loud it would fit right into a normal conversation. It would probably only take a minute tops (probably less) if I read it out loud. If you viewed it on a larger screen it wouldn't take up an entire page, but we've all been trained to accept and tolerate less in terms of communication.
Either way, hope it helps give someone food for thought. 😊
This video came at a good time. Burned out severely and am so tired of the hamster wheel. Sometimes it just helps to listen to someone who relates to on such a real level. Thanks for your videos.
Exactly
8 months and counting, not alarm, no boss, no ratrace, but only using my time to learn what I love to learn, and work out. Money has been mitigated by going minimalist, which is not for every one, but it is an absolute blessing if you can.
That thing you mention about how you're always thinking about work, no matter what you do -- I call that the rat race, always in a hurry mentality. Like, feeling the need to drive fast, to grocery shop fast, to get good sleep just because I have to perform at work the next day.
I’m 42. 6 more weeks of work and I’ll be on mine. Been planning for years. I’m so ready!!!!!
I’ve taken two large work breaks in my life and it’s totally worth it!
I got laid-off off last year in June after working intensive labor for 8 years, and I've been taking a break since. The greatest break of my life!!
@@sayyidjohnson6293 I LOVE to hear this!! ♥️
I wanted to retire early but I won’t be able to afford it. So I’m working towards saving enough money so I can take a sabbatical in 2 years. I am literally counting down the weeks until 2025. I’m so burned out.
After working 6 1/2 years for a company and only taking two one-week vacations I left at the end of 2011. I went across the country amd spent 2 1/2 months hiking, sight seeing, and beach drinking. TOTAL LIFE CHANGER. I will never live for my job ever again, I now work to live and have non negotionable boundries with my time I refuse to allow to compromise
How do you drink a beach? 😁 JK, congratulations
I took time off recently because of mental illness. Absolutely this is what happened. I started to get to know my true self. It was only for about 1.5 months, so I believe it just scratched the service. I wish I could take off a year or even two.
I totally agree! I took a year off and just relaxed at home. It was invigorating.
I needed this video. I’m 27 and I just quit my 8:30-4:30 office job and going back to my old seasonal job. It pays less but at least I’ll still get to pay my bills and enjoy nature. I just can’t do Mon - Fri and follow unfair office politics.
Completely agree Tim I’m 28 and promised my self to always take a break. My first job out of university I left after a year and took an 8 month break. I then worked for 3 years straight and have been “on a break” for almost two years now. I say on a break but this has included a couple of freelance contracts. I don’t have anything at the moment so I’m looking for full time work again but my plan is always to work for a few years and quit again lol 😂
Not a bad idea. Save that money when you work so you can take that time off!
Thank you Tim. This is exactly the message that I needed to hear today. Our society has us brainwashed to believe we are wrong/bad/crazy for wanting to take time off to enjoy our life. We are expected to be happy with our little 1-2 week vacations and feel “rested” from that little pittance of time off. I hope more people will take “sabbaticals” to make it the norm.
Americans are definitely overworked and we definitely all need a minimum of a month sabbatical!
Tis True. Before its Too late. :)
@@duanekaaz3159 I called out of work today since I needed a mental health day for myself and it will probably be an unexcused absence but fortunately my job isn’t currently in jeopardy
In Europe, you start with 20+ plus days off. America is behind...
That's the beauty of minimalism. Bills are low. You save a lot of money and can take 6 months off. Even a year off. Without anyone's permission. That's freedom.
Man...sometimes the Universe just sends the MOST direct messages possible when you need them. I have been debating taking a break for a long time now and finally have the financial and life situation to do so. Very much needed to hear this, brother...thanks for the message. Much love.
Wow! That’s what I just did. I didn’t realize how much shame I was holding about it until your affable face appeared and encouraged it. Thank you so much! I’ve never felt so good about my decision. Truly you are a blessing. ✌🏽💚☺️
I agree completely Timothy. Probably 40years ago I was working on an intense project for a company. Everything we had created was about to be shipped cross country, and upon my request to the company I worked for said I could take 3 weeks off. It was an incredible adventure. Change my life forever.
Took off in car to visit friends halfway across the country with no schedule or plans. Camped off desert side roads and took a turn up a dirt road onto a native American reservation, where I received permission to be one of a few hikers allowed to visit. Walked barefoot through a stream with backpack on and camera available.
Arrived late in evening and was assigned a place to camp and told to all meet by our native guide, who was a graduate of Berkely and now park ranger.
We met to celebrate the solstice in an underground space with hot rocks and steam. Our guide sang and chanted in native tongue. Next day climbed up ladders up to an ancient cliff dwelling and received an amazing blessing. Quite a spiritual experience. Came back with new incites... a big boost in creativity, and all work became much more fun. Will never forget the experience. 3 weeks was enough.
3 weeks that's just regular vacation time for people in Europe
I agree that breaks are essential! We need them to retain our trueselves, and not the self that work or society wants us to be! ☀️☀️
Tim, i took 6 months off last year!! It was amazing!! I stayed in my home area, took all the nature walks I want❤❤❤I was gung-ho at work afterwards lol I actually appreciate work and my relationships, made good health a priority. I felt guilty a Lil to lol but I encourage those who can to do it, yes!!!
Doing the exact same thing at 49, it is absolutely life changing! To get out of the rat race, actually live for a while and turn the alarm clock off is priceless.
Yes Tim!! I’m a trucker and there’s ALWAYS hundreds of jobs available…I’m going use that as my advantage and take MINI Retirements whenever I feel like it!! No longer committing myself to no job for years,say what you want!
Tim, I tendered my resignation on New Year 2023, yet I’m STILL currently at my job.
You were right about people being too afraid of the idea of not making money. I’ve been postponing my last day at work TWICE since resigning, precisely because I can’t get over the fact that I won’t be making the usual money I’ve been making for the past 7.5 years. The thing is, I actually have enough savings to not work for at least a few years, yet I was still AFRAID of the idea of not having a salary coming in each month. It doesn’t make sense, but as you said, us humans do not make sense sometimes.
This video of yours is a sign. I’m looking forward to my last working day in mid-June. Because now I know I'll be okay.
Thank you, Tim. The world is slightly a better place with the wisdom you put out.
Fear of a grizzly bear is real. Fear of peace and joy and freedom is a mental block, a shadow, a false construct, a hypnotic suggestion planted by the establishment.
Take note everybody! Self care is not selfish!
I've never taken half a year off, but I did take a month off with pay back in March of '23. It was probably one of the greatest months of my adult life. The first two weeks felt weird because I had to learn to think for myself and not go to a job, but after that, I was starting to forget that I even had a job. I can't imagine what more time would have done.
I don't have enough money to take months off at a time, but I make sure I plan to do things here and there to break up the monotony of working all the time. I realized I no longer wanted to be a Manager after being one for 5 years. I was constantly worried about things and couldn't leave my work at work. Now working non-management, making less money, but the reduction in stress does wonders for my mental health! Take care Tim💕
Very smart! I had an old manager who was trying to groom me to be his replacement, I polished my resume the day he admitted that to me. I'm not taking on that stress, hell no!
Angela Fleming, Stop living paycheck to pay check.
@@richradtylr4 Most people in this country (USA) live paycheck to paycheck. The wages do not keep up with the cost of living. I'd rather have less stress, than make more money. That was one of my points in my previous statement. I've made more money, it's not worth it.
Same here Angela. I live at home 🏡 with my parents but the most I can afford to take off is 1 week.
@@Angela_Fleming maybe cause most people’s cost of living involves buying a bunch of shit they don’t actually need
Work is what it is. Work. Time spent with yourself is precious. Growth happens when we tend to our needs. Abundance is the key to being able to have the time and resources to be kind to the self
That’s deep 🌊
There is a season to work and than there's a season to REST. Absolutely agree about the blessing in taking a sabbatical. Tfs
I hate when you look for a job and they ask you specifically what did you do during this time period like if it's only for a month or two, seems so personal to me lol , you have really helped me with your videos ! Thank you so much . Blessings do come when we really need it, that is so accurate
I’m working my ass off right now to pay off my debt. But once I pay that off hopefully in the next few months, I’m getting back to travel and going to find a job in another state/country so I can keep my travel bug happy! My break is coming, it’s what motivating me right now to work as much as possible because I know my break is coming!
I've been off for 1yr and a few months now. I will say that at first I lost apart of my identity because I've been working since I was 15 and I'm 34 now.. So down time was hard in the beginning, i also felt guilty and even lied to ppl about my work schedule etc. Now, I preach it.. We really only live once on this side and why waste it stressing (silent killer) or trying to make a better life for everyone else but ourselves..
Our parents think living is working a job for 30-40 years for a pension and a gold watch at retirement. I’m thinking about taking a sabbatical too! I’ve got the money to live without working for years.
I am definitely interested in this. I do not believe we are meant to work our whole lives. I will say, having an easier job when I was teaching in Asia was nice. Lots of breaks and time away from work. Gives you time to see life differently. I do not believe in the constant “grind”. Our bodies are not meant to keep grinding every day (especially women). We all need rest, mentally, physically, and emotionally.
When I was 35, the company I worked for was sold and we all received pretty large "pay and stay" bonuses to remain throughout the transition. My family wanted me to save that, invest it, etc. But as I had been working since I was 15, I wanted something better. I took a year off. Studied things that intrigued me, woke naturally every morning, wrote stories, visited my favourite diner and sat on the covered patio in the rain, watching the world go by. It was glorious. I'm 53 now and don't regret it one iota. To this day, I take time off anytime I can. I'm incandescently happy not working. Boredom baffles me. And so many friends and family members said they could never take that much time off, citing boredom or a need to do things, lol. I did things every day. I bought fresh produce, made lovely meals because I had the energy every day, I did so much but some of the best days were when I did very little, or nothing. But I was alive, and present, and it was GLORIOUS.
Take time off whenever you can. And don't schedule the day, or look to fill the time.
Agree Agree Agree 100 percent with your Video. Sir
You're 100% right Tim. Blessings sent from the U.K. Many years ago I was working in a job with so many negative people and 'spiritual vampires'. A friend of mine said "Do you wanna join me and cycle down the PCH from Seattle to Los Angeles? He then put a map on my coffee table. After some hesitation I shook his hand and said 'Yes'! - I handed in my notice from my job. We had a leaving party in a local pub and got on a flight to Seattle with our bikes and backpacks on board. It was a Life changing experience! We stayed in hostels, camped in fields and on the beach. I met So, So many people, great conversations, friends and memories made. I remember having a feeling of TRULY living and experiencing life! I hope someone will take encouragement from your video and take the break they truly deserve.
Thanks for the great content over all these years. Every Blessing Sent Tim.
Best Regards and God Bless you Brother.
Paul.
That would make for a wonderful read if you ever decide to share it as a book.
@@katashley1031 Hi Kat, you're right, I think it would be an inspiring book. One of the many memories was setting up a tent on Leo Carrillo State Beach and at night, making a pillow out of the sand and waking up to see 'glowing lights' in the ocean. It was just incredible! I found out it's called bioluminescence a rare natural phenomena. Btw, the bike that I used to ride over a thousand miles, (a Kona Cinder Cone) I eventually sold to an American Lady at a hostel in West Hollywood... I'd love to know where that bike is now! 🤔😊
Thanks for your lovely comment Kat
Blessings sent
Paul 😎
I agree. Never in my life would I have learned all these new skills I have aquired if I had not taken a break. Great Video Tim
My Net Worth exploded sky high after I was unemployed 3 years. I do not understand it but it's true.
My mom said that you spend less money when you are not working. Come to think of it, that is true. The last time I was unemployed was 1998, I had less wants when I was not working.
It's this fear of not being able to get back into the workforce. I know I can take a break, and I'm planning to, but part of my brain insists that if I take time off work, no one will ever hire me again. ... It's a little ridiculous, once I type it out, haha
It's scary. Cause u end up homeless and life ruined if the money stops. I just love Freedom here in the good old USA. I Feel Free everyday when that alarm clock goes off and I get to face another day in the meat shredder. 😂
I'm doing it! Today is my last day of work for the next 3 months. Thank you for the inspiration!
Enjoy your time off!!! And thank you so much for the support!
Tim it took me 1.5 years to get back into working then got let go again! The devastation from drinking the kool-aid, giving companies power over my sense of security- needed a break to reprogram
I worked so hard all through my 20’s. I’m financially ok. I took 6 months off twice in the last few years, now on my third work break and I love the free time. I sure don’t feel guilty about it. Cheers.
Couldn't agree more. After years of traveling and working, I am planning on taking a few years off of work around the start of next year and just focusing on learning Spanish and getting better at making videos and commentaries.
Totally agree Tim! After I got laid off in 2020 due to covid I've been taking breaks from work very frequently. Had enough money saved up to not worry about that and just... lived my life. Sometimes for a few months, sometimes half a year to a year. And if an interesting job popped up I'd do that for a while, then go back to living again. I need that balance in my life I can't work 9-5 five days a week for the rest of my life man.
💯Facts Tim! This message is timely and l’m enjoying my time off with no regrets! I quit my job with no savings, but I definitely manifested that money would come to me and it did. I’m so grateful. Stay safe!
As a workaholic this is the kind of advice i needed ❤
I planned and saved for a year before leaving my comfortable government job and transitioned to remote work in 2022. Honestly, it hasn't been easy and I'm still figuring it out but taking this time to ramp up my self care, slow down, work different (self employed, flexible schedule, part time, etc) has been such a blessing! Even if I do have to go back to being a wage slave, it'll be different. I'm rested, empowered and eyes wide open now! Can't go backwards! If you can create any type of break for yourself, I would highly recommend it.
I have a Job that Pays me $18 an Hour, it’s a 5am-2pm Job and get my weekends off to myself.
But stress is Too high and Don’t get help when I am Over tasked.
I gave them my 2 weeks, but Reconsidered To stay until the end of year. (got 6 months left) so I am Starting to plan now for 2024. Decided to Focus 100% on myself and my Health. Gym is my Priority and Traveling is in my Bucket. This Job Sucked my Soul and left me Dead inside. Coming from a Military Background in Marine Corps. It Goes against all my Beliefs and Emotions to quit a Job… but I need to do what’s right for my Mental Health and Wellness. God gave me this Body and I want to treat myself Correctly and Just be happy and Throw the stress away. I want to bust my Butt before the year ends so I can have the Financial Freedom and Make Big moves next year and So what makes me Happy
I just turned 50. Worked 25 years as a computer programmer until I got completly burnt out. I decided to use my savings and took the year off. This is the best decision I made in my life. Now starting to recover bit by bit. I also manged to create passive income out of trading in the stock market so for now it looks like I'm not in a hurry to get back to work.
Life now is much better, got plenty of time to do things that I always dreamt of. I spend lots of time in nature, meditating.
I don’t know where I would be without taking breaks here and there! One thing that initially drew me to teaching was the idea of two months off every summer!! 🤣 And now, while not teaching anymore, I’ve realized that I do best with a couple months off a year and my gosh it is due time for a break!!! Thank you Tim! I agree! As a society we need to normalize the sabbatical… the adult gap year… mental health days or weeks.. all of it! 💖
I forgot to mention mental health days! 👍🏾
I love mental health days! They’re like food for the soul ✨
Yes! I miss that about teaching! I’m a social worker now (for the time being) and we don’t get those breaks. Matter of fact, we only get like 5 holidays off a year. I miss those teacher breaks, but I know this current job is just a stepping stone for something better. But I can take PTO when I want.
I think Covid taught us this too! I’ve been hustling and grinding for years and once 2020 happened and I couldn’t work I realize how much I NEEDED a break. I noticed that we’ve been so conditioned to be work horses that it took a pandemic to slow us down and make us realize wtf is going on.
Great video. Thank you for sharing 🙏
I just got laid off from my cushy corporate job of 7 years. I am simultaneously nervous and relieved, anxious and thankful. It's almost like being let out of prison. You no longer have the comforting promise of fixed mealtimes, guaranteed shelter, predictable routine, and that can be really disorienting. But now, you're not in a fucking cage.
Still not sure what my next step is. Trying to calm myself and have the confidence to take a minute to relax and release, rather than following the nervous instinct of taking the first possible job I can find.
My man... So, when 2023 began, I outright walked out of my job. Just told my boss "I'm done. Just mail my check." It was a HUGE risk. The following six months were filled with prospects I only dreamed of during my 'time off.' I looked into business, put my writing skills out there, began my animation journey and FINALLY started a youtube channel. Despite all that, I've made absolutely no money from it, and I know it's time to get back to work.
To whom it may concern;
If you follow the same path as Timothy or I, and it doesn't work out the first time, if your business or side hustle fails... breathe. Breathe, dust of those work boots, clean those tools and work to plan your next big break.
We have much more life to live than we realize. Never let one failed business venture stop you.
Hustle on, Tim. Stay strong.💪
Thank you so much for sharing your experience! It good to hear that you had 6 months filled with so many good experiences. And I love your attitude about going back to work.
@@TimothyWard Well, my attitude towards work was destroyed and developed off and on for decades. Eventually, I realized we should use the '9 to 5' as leverage for our true goals. Living beneath one's means is both humbling and very, VERY useful. Wouldn't you say?
The past few years have made me realise that my happiness is the most important, not trying to be as good as my money driven family who see me as a failure for not having my own house, not owning a new car etc. I’d rather see the world. I’ve suffered long enough and need a break to keep me alive. Thanks Tim.
I have to say I agree getting away from the daily grind of doing the same old thing over and over again can get so tiring you need to give yourself a good long break it does wonders for your physical and mental health😊
“We can’t live our lives in fear of what if”. This is a great sentence. I think that when we run out of time we won’t regret things we have done but things we havent done. Yeah it sounds a bit cheesy but i think it’s absolutely true
I love this topic! Thanks for posting. I think so many other countries really prioritize life in this way. They allow for longer vacations as the norm and people don’t have to worry about making a negative impact on their jobs or worry as much about money. I hope the US can get there….
It is good for your physical, mental and emotional health to do that break. Thank you for sharing!
Quit my high paying job in management a couple months ago and it honestly was the best decision. It’s giving me time to really process and understand who I am without the stressors of thinking about work every day. If you’re on the fence about it people, I wont lie it will be scary at first but you will thank yourself in the long run.
Hey Tim talk about it more ♥️♥️♥️🥳
My family gets questions about what I’m doing and I think it triggers embarrassment or protection! Lucky to have family that supports me here.
Also wanting to normalize this for my family so bring on the discussion
I just quit my job. Been traveling & going on hikes & outdoor stuff since June 16th. I love this Adult Gap year term.
I love your videos Timothy. I’m homeless 23 female and a lot of the thing you say I have been doing and saying for a couple years. My life situation is getting better and better, your words of wisdom keep me going.
I've been thinking about it every day for the last 4 months. I was hoping to be laid off😂 I have the savings to quit and enjoy this summer. However, I feel uncomfortable like Tim was saying...ashamed. Also, I'm very afraid not being able to find a job like this. No purpose but an easy and ok compensated job with low stress. I would do it today, but because of my kids, I would still not be able to travel during the sabbatical as I would want. I feel privileged but sooo stuck!
Honestly, I've thought about this so many times over the last 2-3 years but I'm worried that it would be harder for me to get another job once I come back from that time off. I'm also worried that I'll lose everything I've tried so hard to get like my apartment and want to continue doing the things that I was doing before without having to worry about the financial part of it. Also, even though I'm adult, my parents worry about me constantly and wouldn't let me relax if I quit my job without a plan. But ya, taking an extended vacation would serve me well since my job has been terrible and I really need to do a hard reset on everything.
Well done, Tim, with lots of deep thought! On two of my breaks, I sold most of my furniture, moved in with roommates, adopted a rescue dog, decluttered my spending habits, and stopped trying to keep up with others’ accomplishments and acquisitions. I’ve never been more content. Working on longer-term goals, one step at a time.
That’s amazing and so on point in many ways. My current approach is taking 2 months in between each seasonal work period and I take that time to spend more time with those that are understanding and more respectful and on my passions travel project. In order to fund it, I have investments for about 4-5 years now and am working on side passive income as a Shutterstock contributor and hopefully a contributor in BlackBox (for stock media). And I got to say, I’d love to do more of that. If any of you all got advice, that’s cool too. But anyway best of life to you all. And wish me the best too. ❤
Wishing you the best!
My number one goal is to take a 2 year sabbatical from work within the next 5 years. Thanks for the great video Tim!
Thank you Tim. This was the message I needed to hear. Next week is my last week of work for a while. Finally taking the leap!
I’m on the brink of doing this…I’m going through a major life change…the end of an unhealthy relationship and I’m struggling to keep it together and show up with my best foot forward at work, for my kids, and most importantly, for myself….
So I’m going to do it…
I need the break and I deserve the break…
I was laid off for about for 4 months from the AMNH in 2020. I rested for 4 months going to the beach on a daily basis. When the museum called all laid off employees back, I didn't want to return, honestly.
In any case, I returned to the museum only to find myself forced to resign a few weeks later for something I didn't do. I was the scapegoat for the hiring manager who needed to make sure that he CAUGHT THE BOOGEYMAN, so to speak. I was heartbroken. I love the AMNH. I miss working there and all the friends I made in almost two years at the cultural institution.
Like i said before in different posts. If you have some money or go living "base" parents house, and take long big breath? Go for it. Trust me, universe will make all good things for you if you start living present not the past not the future, just be!
I'd definitely want to continue with this dialogue. I've been tossing this idea around for the past 3 years! I actually took a 2 month sabbatical and it was great. I wish it was something I could do every year, but 3 months would be the sweet spot. We have new management now and it's unlikely that will be permitted again. However, I have the cash in the bank to be able to comfortably take that 3 months. It's so difficult to make that decision and let go of a good paying remote job but damn does it feel so liberating, envisioning myself pulling the trigger. Part of my hesitation is because I lack the confidence in finding another job because I am horrible at interviews!
I am at the point though, that I wouldn't mind working a seasonal job doing something completely different just to reset my mind. I might feel some remorse when finally making that decision but I also risk regret for not making that decision. Also, as you mentioned, I do feel like my identity has been associated with work all these years. I've been questioning who I really am a lot lately. Something is off and sometimes I attribute it to depression, anxiety.
Curious if others who do this, pay for health insurance out of pocket during this sabbatical or just wait until they get back into the workforce?
I just dropped to part time after full time swing shift for 10 months ready for a break.
8:11
Nope it’s not just
you! 😂
I took what was supposed to be 3 months off and ended up being almost 6 months total and it was absolutely the best.
Time is precious and valuable! We do not get more time which makes it perhaps one of the most important things we can give ourselves.
The ability to slow down, think, rest, relax, do the things we actually enjoy and love cause IF we’re honest it’s not work 😂
The ability to rejuvenate and regroup mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually should not be optional but necessary.
Ok ima do it u talked me into it 2025 here i come i will travel i will keep myself around nature as much as i can
Took off a year to learn a new skill
Worked in that field for 25 plus years
Retired at 60 and travelled overseas
Acquiring a 22 ft sailboat
Pushing to activate a freedom dividend so more and more people can live their best life not tomorrow but right now today cheers
I'm 42 years old HVAC Technician. No wife or kids. Single, not many friends. I have a friend I hang out with but I go months weeks without social contact then I come out of the house. I'm always working, but I haven't been on vacation in 7 years. I need a break and to get away. I'm definitely a lone wolf, but even I need social contact time to time.
I'm thinking of doing it! Thank you for saying it "fear and guilt of not earning", damn programming. Fuh, plan to submit my resignation with 2 months notice tomorrow. Wish me luck!
Good luck! 👍🏾
Do less. Have less. Say no.
~Suzie Orman
I think you hit on something Tim, thats what i been trying to figure out since I left Calif before covid hit in 2020. Figuring out what my identity was,what i truly wanted my life to be about..In this video you made for us today you talk about designing your life..How you want it to be..Thats what I been trying to do...Design the life ive always wanted!! Thanks Brother for fleshing out what I been thinking of but didnt have the words for it..Appreciate you Tim!!
I love this guy and would hope to meet him on the road in the future.
Great message, Tim. I am leaving my back-breaking job at the end of the month to move to a small town. I will get another job in August.
I took 1.5 years off from working and I loved it but it also made me appreciate working. I’d do it again but I don’t think I could do more than 6-12 months
I'm working towards integrating this into my life.
Yes Timothy I've been planning this for quite sometime , as I am up in age it might come into fruition sooner than I thought.
Oh yea I took 2019 off work and then COVID hit and it turned into a 4 year sabbatical
I’m undepaid and overworked…I wanted to run away a never come back.
This is a fantastic video and topic, Tim. I've been pondering this so much over the last couple of years. I take a week off of my busy season at work each year and hit the road on a solo road trip to clear my mind and explore new roads. But lately I've been daydreaming of just pulling the plug from work and taking an entire summer or 6 months off to just slow travel or even also just spending some downtime at home.
Thank you for presenting a great perspective of taking the break which allows proper inner searching, relaxation and overall enjoyment.
Discovered your videos bout 2 days! And came at a perfect time in my life where I need to change my life! “Chasing the joneses” is exhausting and killing me and time I put my health, family and nature the centre of my life!
Big love from me here in England, UK 🇬🇧 keep up the great vids
Welcome to the channel/community!
Self care is the most loving thing we can do for ourselves and everyone in our lives. Wonderful video, thank you. 👌
Thanks Tim, yes im ready. About two years ago I told you I was going to travel america in an RV… you’ll be the first to know when I jump ship
I had a coworker years ago who actually recommended me doing this. He told me, “Save up money and take 6 months off working. Once you do it, try doing it often. It’s not impossible to do”
But now it’s years later, in the present time, and I’m truly debating on doing it. Working non stop every week for years can take a toll on a persons mind, body and life.
Taking breaks has been shown to be important in recovering from stress .. Thanks Timothy 👍 Great video God bless 🙏 🎉🎉🎉 🙏 ....
When I turned 50 years old I took my entire year off it was a 50-year jubilee. Every six years I take a sabbath year of rest. It's all about the budget.
That's marveslous! I took a year off at 35. I'm 53 now and haven't since then, but I do work from home part time now. It's a wonderful positive shift. I love your plan.
@@katashley1031 I watch a lot of Andy Lee Graham videos on hobo traveler you tube