Finding Stillness: Lessons from My Sabbatical

By Shobhit Mathur (Sabbatical from 1st September 2024 to 31st January 2025)

When I first stepped into my sabbatical, I had one clear intention — to slow down. Years of fast-paced professional life had taken their toll, and I knew I needed time to pause, focus on my physical and mental health, and reconnect deeply with my partner and myself. 

Looking back, I can divide my sabbatical into three distinct phases — each one shaping my journey in its own unique way.

Phase 1: The Freedom High
The initial two weeks were pure bliss — a whirlwind of doing nothing. I finally had the freedom to sleep in, binge-watch movies, read for pleasure, and simply exist without an agenda. It was the first time in a long while that I truly allowed myself to be — no deadlines, no pressure, no expectations.

Phase 2: Seeking Structure & Subtle Stress 
As the high wore off, I began looking for ways to make the most of my time. I picked up hobbies like playing the tabla, started a regular exercise routine, and explored other interests. But soon, the familiar itch returned — I began worrying about what came next. Would I be employable again? What’s my plan post-sabbatical?

I reached out to well-wishers and explored freelance opportunities, trying to get a sense of direction. That’s when my wife gently pointed out something I couldn’t see — I was falling back into the same pattern of future-fixation and productivity. Her nudge helped me pause, and re-center myself on the purpose of the break — to rest, not rush.

Phase 3: Mindful Engagement 
The final phase was the most rewarding. I spent quality time with family and my wife, traveled, and consciously picked up engagements that sparked interest without overwhelming me. I even did a freelance assignment to explore the consulting space — a small step to test the waters on my own terms.

Toward the end, with clarity in my priorities and a sense of calm I hadn’t felt in years, I transitioned into a new role — one that aligns with my long-term goals and offers the kind of working conditions I value. It wasn't the most financially lucrative option, but it brought something far more valuable: satisfaction and purpose.

Reflections from the Pause
Personal Reflections:

• Staying calm isn’t easy after years of constant doing — it takes real effort.
• Routines are great, but not at the cost of family time.
• We often forget to upskill or explore personal growth while caught up in work firefighting.

Professional Reflections:
The sabbatical gave me the headspace to make one of the biggest professional decisions of my life — to leave a well-paying, settled role for something that felt more aligned. The clarity came from truly reflecting on what matters most: health, family, and meaning.

What Stayed With Me:

• Rediscovering my love for the tabla.
• Movie nights with my wife — small joys, big impact.

Challenges Along the Way:
Keeping my mind calm and free from the constant buzz of “what’s next” was the hardest part. A break from work doesn’t automatically mean a break from worry — it takes active work to truly slow down.

Learnings I’m Carrying Forward:

• Work is an important part of life, but it doesn’t define who we are.
• Calming the mind is an ongoing, conscious practice — not a one-time event.

A Renewed Self:
I now feel rested, rejuvenated, and more grounded as I return to work. The sabbatical did more than give me a break — it gave me clarity.

Reflections from My Circle:
Colleagues: Envious in jest, supportive in reality.
Family: Relieved and happy to see me finally prioritize my health and well-being. They were deeply grateful for the support from The Cocoon Initiative.

A Suggestion for Cocoon:
While the journey was deeply enriching, I felt a bit lost at times — especially during the early stages when I was navigating a career transition. Having access to a personal coach or counselor, someone who understands both personal and professional contexts, could have been incredibly helpful in deepening the reflection process.

My Advice to Fellow Travelers:

• This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity — don’t take it for granted.
• There’s never a “perfect” time to take a sabbatical. Don’t over-plan. Just leap — the outcome can surprise you in the best ways.

If you're standing at the edge of burnout, or just yearning for clarity, take it from me — a sabbatical might be just the pause your life needs.