Description

In this episode, Lauren shares her unique journey of taking a career break that began as maternity leave. She discusses the emotional challenges of leaving family behind, the identity shift that comes with motherhood, and the importance of mentorship in navigating her career decisions. Lauren emphasizes the need for self-kindness and the value of being present during fleeting moments with her child. She also offers practical advice for parents on managing their career breaks and the guilt that often accompanies parenting decisions.

We dive into:

• ​The emotional impact of leaving family behind as an expat
• ​How becoming a parent often leads to a significant identity shift
• ​The ways in which maternity leave can be challenging, especially in finding purpose and structure
• ​Why finding joy in a new routine is essential for mental well-being
• ​The reasons why returning to work after a break is difficult
• ​How mentorship plays a crucial role in career development and decision-making

Chapters

00:00 - How maternity leave became an extended career break

02:47 - The emotional impact of moving countries with a baby

07:44 - The deep emotional impact of missing family abroad

12:29 - Navigating the shock and identity shift of motherhood

16:40 - Embracing the process and being kinder to yourself

22:57 - Challenges of re- entering the workforce

31:20 - The power of mentorship and intentional decision-making

34:27 - Essential practical tips for parents on career breaks

Other episodes you may enjoy: 

• ​The truth about career breaks: Research insights from PhD scholar Patrick Mazzocco
• ​How a career break can prepare you for emigration: Liz Ferguson’s sabbatical story

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/