Episode 30 - Why Routines Matter on a Career Break: Find Balance, Create Bedtime Habits & Have Regular Check-Ins
Taking a break from your career can feel expansive and freeing — but sometimes that much freedom can also feel overwhelming. In this episode, Katrina and I dive into the importance of routines and rhythms while on a career break or sabbatical. Whether you're a structure-loving planner or a go-with-the-flow traveller, adding a few intentional practices into your day can help you feel more grounded, present, and fulfilled.
We talk about the power of a solid morning routine, how to create bedtime habits that actually support your rest, and why checking in with yourself regularly can make your break more meaningful. We also share personal stories of what works (and doesn’t work) for us, and how to stay flexible and experiment with routines without losing the spontaneity of your time off.
Whether you're just starting your break or deep in the journey, this episode is packed with practical tools and insights to help you feel more balanced and intentional with your time.
Timestamps
00:00 – Welcome to Episode 30!
01:00 – Celebrating podcast milestones (and dreaming of cake)
03:40 – Introducing today’s topic: routines and rhythms on a career break
04:30 – Why routines matter, even for the free-spirited
05:45 – The 3 key elements Katrina recommends for structure on a break
06:10 – Element 1: Morning routines – building small wins into your day
08:30 – Setting the tone for your day (and avoiding the doom scroll)
09:45 – Masculine vs. feminine energy approaches to mornings
12:20 – Morning routine tips: experiment, don’t overdo it, add pleasure
14:50 – Element 2: Bedtime habits & why your evening sets up your next day
15:45 – Tips for evening routines that support better sleep and rest
17:30 – Device boundaries and winding down without screens
19:30 – James shares his own nighttime routine (and love of TV)
20:00 – Katrina’s rule: the phone doesn’t go in bed!
21:00 – Element 3: Check in with yourself – reflect, observe, improve
22:30 – How to schedule check-ins and track what really matters to you
24:10 – What lessons is your break teaching you?
25:00 – A challenge to listeners: how solid is your routine?
25:30 – Share your routine with us – we’d love to hear it!
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 feel free to get in touch today to start 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
