Sabbaticals in Europe: From Idealism to Conscious Choice

In my previous article on the topic of sabbatical, I explored how our collective fascination with the idea of a long, liberating break sometimes hides the realities beneath. Since then, many of you have written to me, sharing your longing for rest, but also your doubts: Is it realistic? Can I afford it? Is it even allowed where I work?

Those are wise questions. So, let’s look at what’s actually happening in Europe, and how we, as conscious professionals, can approach the idea of a sabbatical with maturity, clarity, and self-leadership.

The Reality Behind the Dream

In most European countries, sabbaticals are not a legal right but a negotiated privilege. France and Belgium are rare exceptions, where “career breaks” or congé sabbatique are part of labour law — yet even there, they’re usually unpaid. In places like Switzerland, Poland, Slovakia, or Ukraine, the law allows unpaid leave, but the decision ultimately lies with the employer.

In other words: the sabbatical, as we imagine it - fully paid, guaranteed, universally supported - exists mostly in theory. In practice, it’s a patchwork of policies, goodwill, and personal negotiation. That doesn’t make it less valuable; it simply means we need to approach it consciously, not romantically.

The Hidden Costs Nobody Mentions

When clients tell me, “I just want time to breathe,” I nod. And then I ask, “What will that breath cost you?”

A sabbatical may pause not only your salary but also your pension, health insurance, and seniority. It can alter your place in the system you’re stepping out of, not always in a bad way, but in ways worth anticipating. The real challenge isn’t in taking time off; it’s in taking it without preparation. That’s when rest becomes anxiety.

Making It Work for You

If you still feel the pull, and many do indeed, here’s how you can transform the sabbatical from dream to conscious choice:

1. Clarify your “why.” Is it rest, redirection, study, or reflection? Your motivation will guide the shape and length of your break.

2. Design it like a project. Learn your country’s rules, talk early with your employer, and plan finances before you step out.

3. Experiment with smaller pauses. If a full year feels out of reach, test shorter breaks - for a month, a few weeks, or reduced hours.

4. Prepare your return. Think about who you want to be when you come back, not just what you want to do during your time away.

5. Stay aware. During the sabbatical, journal, observe, reflect - don’t just rest; learn from the stillness.

A More Mature Definition of Freedom

True freedom isn’t escape; it’s design. Taking a sabbatical consciously isn’t an act of rebellion against work, rather it’s an act of stewardship over your energy and purpose. And in countries where the system doesn’t automatically support such breaks, this act of self-leadership becomes even more meaningful.

A well-planned sabbatical is not about walking away from responsibility. It’s about renewing your relationship with it.

Final Reflection

So yes — the sabbatical still holds value, but not as a fantasy of endless travel or escape. Its real worth lies in the awareness it cultivates: that you can choose your rhythm, redefine success, and learn to pause without losing momentum.

If you find yourself standing at that crossroads, wondering whether to pause, or how to make it possible. then I invite you to explore it in coaching. Together, we can clarify your “why,” map the practical “how,” and design a path that lets you return not just rested, but realigned.

You can book a coaching session with me here — or simply start by reflecting on one question: What part of you is asking for space right now — and what would it take to give it that space, even for a little while?