Overview

• A OnePoll survey of 2,000 adults for Explore Worldwide reports nearly a third are seriously considering extended breaks, typically one to three months.
• Thirty-seven percent believe their employer would be receptive to a request, and 64% think sabbaticals should be a standard workplace benefit.
• Finances are the leading obstacle at 49%, followed by expected lack of employer support at 26% and family or home responsibilities at 22%.
• Twenty-six percent have already taken a sabbatical, with uptake highest among Gen Z at 54% versus 8% for Boomers, and reported outcomes include 84% feeling optimistic about returning and 96% gaining renewed purpose.
• New guidance stresses practical planning: SHRM’s 2019 data show only 11% of employers offer unpaid and 5% paid sabbaticals, while experts recommend earmarking savings—such as a dedicated 5%—and using breaks for training, recovery from burnout or career pivots.