After 35 Years of Collecting W2s, I'm Taking a Timeout from Work - A Personal Story of Family, Adventure, and Self-Care

February 2025: In this post, I will share my plans for this career detour, what motivated me to take this leap, and how I aim to balance adventure with quality family time. Join me as I embark on my uncharted trail into the unknown.

The Motivation Behind an Accidental Sabbatical

Choosing to take a break after decades of dedicated work is a significant decision. Over the years, I have invested my energy into being a "loyal/reliable" employee, believing this was the key to success and stability. However, the relentless grind of bureaucracy, inconsistency, and the perpetual need for persona shifting highlighted a critical need for balance. I realized that life isn't just about numbers and deadlines; it’s about experiences, relationships, personal growth, and mental stability.

I've been presented a prime opportunity to reevaluate what truly matters. I aim to explore various activities—such as reconnecting/re-balancing my familial priorities, finding new trails (to me) to backpack/hike, investigating new investment strategies to generate passive income, brewing beer, preparing rustic food from local ingredients, or simply spending quality time outdoors (I don't care what, just give me sun and fresh air). With almost 30% of Americans reporting burnout due to work-related stress, stepping away from my recent routine to embrace new experiences feels not only refreshing, but necessary.

The idea of leaving my comfort zone and immersing myself in different adventures scares me, but is liberating!

Embracing Family Time

As I plan my sabbatical, one of my top priorities is to spend more quality time with my family. My wife is not just beautiful; she’s my partner in crime through all of life's adventures. Our three kids, ages 7, 9, and 12, each brimming with their unique personalities, deserve my attentive presence.

I envision camping trips, hikes through stunning landscapes, and simply being present during shared moments. Our Aushole Penny, with her goofy antics, will undoubtedly be part of our adventures, bringing laughter and unpredictability.

I want to create unforgettable memories while teaching my kids about the joys of nature and the great outdoors. For instance, research shows that spending just 120 minutes a week in nature can significantly improve mental well-being. I plan to take this to heart by organizing family hikes, where we disconnect from technology and bond through a campfire, stargazing, and/or mosquito bites.

Adventuring into the Great Outdoors

As an outdoor enthusiast, I have always found solace in nature. Hiking, camping, and backpacking have served as constant sources of relief and quiet moments. Therefore, I anticipate my time away from work with involve a deep dive into the wild!

I’m excited to hike mountain trails or relax at peaceful lakesides. I’ve already mapped out potential routes, checked my gear, and researched some hidden camping spots where I can fully immerse myself in our breathtaking landscapes. With over 60 national parks in the U.S. alone, the options are endless!

Exploring New Passions and Hobbies

Beyond spending time with family and outdoor adventures, I see this time as a chance to explore my passions. When I’m not out adventuring, I want to focus on improving my culinary skills and experimenting with cooking new dishes and brewing various beer styles.

If you’ve ever tried home brewing, you know the unique satisfaction that comes with crafting your own recipes. On the other hand, I might even blend my love for cooking with my interest in smart financial tips to create a blog featuring my favorite recipes and investment advice (the AI trade remains alive and well).

Additionally, I’ve realized how important mindfulness practices like yoga and running are essential for my mental health. I plan to dedicate time to these activities, improving my physical health and mental clarity.

Travel Dreams: Random Adventures

In addition to local escapades, travel plays a vital role in my plans. Whether it’s a weekend trip to a nearby national park or a longer journey across the ocean, I look forward to discovering new places. Traveling exposes us to diverse cultures and fresh perspectives.

I aspire to take my family to less traveled destinations. For example, visiting Brian Head Utah can provide a physical wow factor that can instill an appreciation for core balance within my kids, while exploring the fresh powder of the daily ski runs. Alternatively, we may test whether brown gravy is served on French fries in Canada.

I plan to document our adventures and the stories that come with them in our family blog, ensuring we preserve our treasured memories for years to come.

A New Chapter Awaits

Taking time away from work isn't just about time off; it’s also an opportunity for introspection, a commitment to strengthening family bonds, and a pathway for adventure and self-discovery. I look forward to every moment.

Ultimately, life is about creating memories, nurturing relationships, and embracing new experiences. I hope this opportunity not only enriches my life but also inspires others to consider how they may be able to weave more joy and adventure into their journeys.

As I embark on this exciting new chapter, I encourage you all to chase your own adventures, no matter how small. After all, life is too short to fret over your work email. Here’s to living fully, and hiking your own hike!

Grand Canyon April 2024