In this conversation, Mandy shares her transformative sabbatical journey that began 15 years ago when she felt lost in her corporate career. She discusses the importance of taking a break to rediscover oneself, the intentions behind her travels, and how these experiences led her to a fulfilling career in wellbeing and Pilates. Mandy emphasizes the significance of authenticity, courage, and creating space for creativity in both personal and professional life. She offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and highlights the necessity of scheduling breaks to maintain balance and health.

We dive into:

• ​How a sabbatical can be the turning point for personal growth
• ​Why courage over comfort is essential for making life changes
• ​How intentionality in career choices can prevent burnout
• ​The importance of good human connections throughout your break and on your return
• ​Why scheduling breaks is crucial for maintaining balance

Chapters

00:00 - From corporate career to solopreneur journey

02:52 - The leap: traveling Asia with no back up

08:40 - The creative space to launch first wellness business

11:31 - Building a business while working part time

16:05 - Removing the mask: lessons in courage and intuition

20:26 - Scheduling silence: avoiding the noise addiction

23:42 - Listen, learn, leverage: building your own brand

29:48 - Mandy’s camper van dream and scheduling breaks

33:46 - Top tips for a career break: courage, intuition, space

Other episodes you may enjoy:

• ​How to support others through career breaks and sabbaticals: Tips from Jennifer Anderson
• ​How to take a career break like a pro: Katerina McGee, The Queen of time off

Get in touch: If you are interested in sharing your sabbatical story, we would love to hear from you. Buzz us a DM on Instagram - ⁠@Sabbatical_Stories⁠ or reach out on LinkedIn - ⁠Bex Thomas.⁠

Career transition, sabbatical and career break coaching:

As a career transition, sabbatical, and career break coach, I inspire, challenge, and support people like you to create a life that feels deeply aligned with your values, dreams, and authentic self.

Whether you’re craving a new direction, a chance to pause, or the courage to pursue what really matters, I’m here to guide you toward your own version of success on your terms.

Together, we’ll break free from societal blueprints, rewrite the rules, and design a future you’re excited to wake up to. Learn more ⁠here⁠

💫 Ready to make the most of your time away from work? Download my free guide, "5 Ways to Maximise Your Career Break", packed with practical tips and soulful insights to help you pause with purpose and return with clarity.

Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already on sabbatical, this is your essential companion.

👉 Grab your free copy ⁠here⁠

With special thanks to:

Aunty B at the Flaxen, our amazing, talented and patient producer whose expertise helps make this podcast shine.

Joanna Cooke, whose soulful blend of smooth vocals we are lucky enough to use throughout the show. Listen and connect with Joanna via your favourite medium:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7EyKy53TsVFLJFZFyYzBZQ?si=HaCSIRCETS2uYB3LBLcrWA

Website - https://joannacooke.co.uk

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/joannacooke

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/joanna.cooke/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/joannacookemusic/