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Carlos Rojas on the Power of Taking a Sabbatical to Reset

November 29, 2024

Kathy Banach

Taking a break from work isn’t just about time off—it’s a chance to grow personally and professionally. For Carlos Rojas, a WPML Support team member, his sabbatical gave him the space to recharge, reflect on his values, and come back to work with a renewed sense of energy.

Carlos dedicated his September 2024 sabbatical to self-care and personal development. We’re now catching up with him to learn how that time off influenced his perspective and what he’s bringing back to his role.

Carlos, how did you spend your sabbatical?

My sabbatical was deliberately unplanned, which was both freeing and therapeutic. I spent the first half focusing on physical and mental well-being by exercising, walking, and catching up with friends. I made it a point to avoid the computer unless absolutely necessary, which allowed me to fully disconnect from work-related routines.

The most enriching experience of the month was a hiking trip with two friends to the Picos de Europa, a stunning mountain range in northern Spain. The trip was both a physical and mental challenge. It involved a 12+ km uphill hike with over 1,200 meters of elevation gain, followed by a 14+ km descent the next day. It was an unforgettable adventure that tested our limits as sedentary remote workers, but the spectacular views and sense of accomplishment made it rewarding.

 The three musketeers starting the hike
Hiking the Picos de Europa mountains

In the final week, I transitioned back to Madrid from Valencia, which included the exciting yet challenging process of finding a new home in a dynamic and expensive city. It was a significant milestone and a fitting way to conclude my sabbatical.

Bejes, the starting point and then end of the journey

What made you decide this was the right time for a sabbatical?

The main motivation for taking a sabbatical was the need to recharge, disconnect from the fast pace of work, and refocus on personal well-being. 

After spending years immersed in the dynamic and fast-paced nature of remote work, I felt it was time to step back, prioritize myself, and explore a more balanced approach to life. The idea of having an unstructured period free from obligations and screens was very appealing—it offered a chance to reset both mentally and physically.

Casetón de Andara, a mountain station
Dinner at a restaurant in Potes

How do you feel after your sabbatical, both on a personal and professional level?

The sabbatical gave me a new perspective on balance and the importance of stepping away from routine to recharge. Personally, I feel more grounded, energized, and connected to my values. It reinforced the importance of taking time for self-care and pursuing experiences that challenge and inspire me.

Professionally, the break has renewed my focus and creativity. By stepping back, I gained clarity on how to approach my work with greater intention and efficiency. The sabbatical not only helped me avoid burnout—a common struggle for many who have been in the workforce for years—but also equipped me with fresh energy and insights to bring to my professional life moving forward.

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