A couple sits together, gazing at the mountains. CTV
The idea of taking a gap year has traditionally been associated with young people, typically fresh out of high school or college. It's a time to travel, discover new things, and recharge before diving into the next chapter of life. However, a new trend is emerging in Canada: more adults are now looking to take their own "adult gap year."
An adult gap year is a longer break from work to rest, refocus, and explore activities outside of their daily routine. People want to travel, spend more time with family, or just take a break to refresh their mental and physical well-being. While the desire for such a break is growing, many Canadians are finding that financial and career concerns make it difficult to take that step.
Philippe de Villers, the chair of Chartered Professionals in Human Resources Canada, points out that the rising cost of living and inflation are major factors keeping people from taking extended time off. He adds that many people want to take a break to focus on personal goals, but they often feel financially strained. Laura Hambley, founder of Career Canada Counselling, agrees, saying that adult gap years are becoming more popular because people realize that life is short and they want to live their best life now, before retirement.
Mental health is also a big motivator. De Villers explains that the stresses of modern jobs, particularly with the rise of remote work, can lead to burnout. "There's more disability than ever," he says. The constant demands on workers are taking a toll, making the idea of a gap year more appealing.
For some adults, a gap year can serve as a "mini retirement," especially for those aged 50 and older who are looking to take time off to recharge. Hambley mentions that this "golden gap year" can help people gain new energy and passion for their careers, allowing them to work longer and more effectively.
However, for younger workers, an adult gap year may come with risks. De Villers warns that taking time off early in one's career can set you back in terms of promotions and opportunities. Taking a year off could put you behind your colleagues who are advancing in their roles. For those later in their careers, though, the hit is less severe, as they've already built up capital for retirement.
From a company's perspective, managing these sabbaticals can be tricky. Employers have to decide whether to hire a replacement or leave the position vacant, which can cause operational challenges. While some companies are offering more flexibility, such breaks are still rare.
Planning for an adult gap year requires careful thought, especially financially. Hambley notes that professionals in established careers are more likely to have the resources to take an extended break. They can either return to their current role afterward or use the time to explore a new career direction.
Some companies, like universities and consulting firms, already offer sabbaticals, recognizing the benefits of giving employees time to recharge. However, employees should be aware of the potential challenges they may face upon returning, including ageism or difficulties reconnecting with their professional network.
Ultimately, taking an adult gap year is not without its hurdles. From financial stability to health insurance concerns, planning is crucial. While the idea is appealing to many Canadians, it remains an option that is out of reach for most due to the complexities involved.
