A new survey shows that many more of us are considering taking extended time off work, with a “micro-retirement” being the most popular option for those looking to reset and recharge
A recent survey of 2,000 employees revealed that nearly a third are seriously thinking about taking an extended leave from their roles, with most aiming for a one to three month hiatus.
The survey showed that over a third believe their employer would be open to the idea, while 64 per cent think that the ability to take a sabbatical should be a standard workplace perk. According to the survey, four in 10 would relish the opportunity to take a ‘micro-retirement’ to concentrate on their mental health.
Meanwhile, 48 per cent would utilise the time to travel more, and 41 per cent would use it to spend additional time with their families.
Michael Edwards, managing director at the adventure travel specialist Explore Worldwide, said: “People are no longer reserving their big travel experiences for early adulthood gap years, or retirement as has always been tradition. In our youth, finances often hold us back from travelling how or where we’d like, while later in life it can simply feel too late.”
Michael also added: “With the state retirement age on the rise, more and more people are looking to ‘micro-dose’ that traditional big retirement trip, choosing to take chunks of time out from work to tick off bucket list experiences now rather than waiting.
“We’re living longer and working for longer than ever, so sometimes we just need a complete break to totally reassess or simply recharge.
“Additionally, there’s been a sense of Carpe Diem since 2020 – a recognition that we don’t always know what lies ahead. It’s no wonder fewer people are willing to wait until their 70s, when health and activity levels may be declining, to take that dream trip!”
But what is the perfect age to step away from work and take a much-needed ‘micro-retirement’? Take our quiz to find out.
The study also revealed that 26 per cent of people have already taken a sabbatical – this figure rises to 54 per cent among Gen Z employees, compared with a mere eight per cent of Boomers.
Over half used their sabbatical to travel and explore new places, while 38 per cent used it to prioritise time in nature and 28 per cent studied for new qualifications. For 38 per cent, they confessed they simply needed a breather to prevent burnout.
Of those who travelled, nearly two-thirds explored Europe, while 23 per cent ventured to Australia. Others ticked off North America (17 per cent), Asia (16 per cent) and South America (13 per cent) – with 37 per cent having experiences you just can’t get on a normal holiday.
After their break, 84 per cent felt positive about returning to work and an overwhelming 96 per cent had a renewed sense of purpose, coming back brimming with fresh ideas.
The survey, conducted via OnePoll.com on behalf of Explore Worldwide, also revealed the biggest barriers to a micro-retirement, with money holding back 49 per cent.
A quarter (26 per cent) don’t think their employer would be supportive, and 22 per cent said family or home responsibilities make it impossible.
Michael Edwards added: “Micro-retirement is about resetting and rediscovering. When you step away from the daily grind and immerse yourself in new places, you gain clarity, energy and perspective that no office routine can provide.
“Our survey highlights a growing appetite for having these moments along the way in life and not waiting for our later years.”