Should You Take a Leave of Absence Instead of Quitting? Pros & Cons Explained

Episode 65 - Should You Take a Leave of Absence Instead of Quitting? Pros & Cons Explained

In this episode of Taking a Career Break with Katrina McGhee, we tackle a question that’s coming up more and more: should you take a leave of absence instead of quitting for a full career break?

After seeing multiple clients face this exact situation—being offered a leave of absence after handing in their notice—Katrina and James break down the real differences, pros, cons, and hidden trade-offs between these two paths.

You’ll learn why a leave of absence might feel like the “safe” option, but could come with emotional, psychological, and even financial costs that aren’t immediately obvious. From paid vs unpaid leave, benefits, and job security to burnout recovery, identity shifts, and long-term life alignment—this episode covers it all.

If you’re feeling stuck, burned out, or dreaming of time off, this conversation will help you make a clear, confident decision about your next move.

RSVP for the 'Take a Break Without Falling Behind' Workshop: ⁠⁠https://app.heartbeat.chat/breakspace/events/552F4A

⏱️ Timestamps

00:00 – Intro & episode overview
00:51 – What is a leave of absence?
02:29 – Why this topic is trending right now
03:56 – Paid vs unpaid leave explained
04:50 – Leave of absence vs sabbatical vs vacation
07:16 – How companies use leave to retain employees
08:13 – Real client examples (paid vs unpaid offers)
11:50 – Pro #1: Keep your job security
12:48 – Pro #2: Reduced anxiety about the future
13:47 – Pro #3: No resume gaps
14:38 – Pro #4: Potential financial savings
15:33 – Pro #5: Start with leave, extend into a break
18:50 – Financial reality check (hidden costs & math)
19:54 – International perspective on healthcare & leave
21:27 – Con #1: Paperwork & approval stress
22:56 – Con #2: Staying mentally tied to work
23:47 – Personal insight: why safety can hold you back
25:03 – Con #3: Work may still contact you
25:58 – Con #4: The “ticking clock” effect
26:15 – Con #5: Having to quit later anyway
27:19 – Con #6: Limits your ability to pivot
27:44 – Con #7: Shorter break, less impact
28:44 – Real client experiences: changing their mind mid-leave
30:22 – Why career breaks offer more freedom
31:53 – Personal growth & identity shifts on a break
32:34 – Final considerations (healthcare & reapplying)
33:28 – Real-life example: quitting led to a higher salary
34:56 – Final thoughts: balancing risk vs safety

Don’t start at Episode 1! Find your best place to begin right here - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://chatgpt.com/g/g-69b0e49d33008191a533dfd037479bfc-career-break-podcast-episode-recommender⁠⁠⁠⁠

Ready to stop "running on empty" and start running toward a life you actually love?

📞Schedule a call with Katrina - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/freeconsult⁠⁠⁠⁠

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🎧Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com