Episode 40 - Escaping the 9-to-5: Proving Worth vs. Finding Devotion
In this episode of the podcast Taking a Career Break with Katrina McGhee, Katrina reflects on one of the biggest questions people face when considering a break from their careers: Are you working to prove your worth, or are you devoting yourself to what truly matters?
Katrina shares how this powerful question surfaced during her own moments of reflection as a digital nomad and life coach. She unpacks the difference between chasing external validation—through promotions, salaries, and titles—and choosing to live with intentional devotion to freedom, fulfilment, and joy.
This conversation goes beyond the surface of taking time off. It’s about rethinking the cultural scripts that tell us success is only found in constant striving. Katrina explores how devotion can look different for everyone, from parenting to travelling the world to creating sustainable businesses. She emphasises that the key is making a conscious choice about where to devote your time, energy, and focus—rather than unconsciously trying to prove you’re “enough.”
If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in the 9-to-5 grind, wondering if all your effort is leading to true happiness, this episode will give you permission to pause, reflect, and reconsider your path. Katrina offers both practical wisdom and personal stories to help you see that a career break isn’t about weakness—it’s about courage, self-awareness, and living intentionally.
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Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Worth vs. Devotion
02:18 The Reflection on Breaks and Commitment
04:51 Proving Worth vs. Demonstrating Devotion
08:44 Personal Journeys and Life Choices
11:02 The Importance of Time and Intentionality
13:39 Reframing Goals and Devotion
17:49 Seasons of Life and Balance
19:47 Join BreakSpace
Listen now and reclaim control of your career break journey.
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📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us today to begin your journey.
BreakSpace - www.gobreakspace.com
Schedule a call with Katrina - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php
Order Katrina's book - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book
Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/takingacareerbreak/?hl=en
