In 2024, the Global Talent Trends report revealed that 82% of employees globally were at risk of burnout, with 40% citing exhaustion as a major factor. As a result, more people are considering taking a break from their careers—a real pause to recharge, pursue personal goals, or figure out what’s next. However, attitudes toward career breaks vary greatly depending on where you are in the world. While some cultures embrace time off as essential for well-being and personal growth, others see it as a risky or indulgent decision.
Gary Clark, Director at SIA Austria, a provider of gap year ski courses, notes, “In places where sabbaticals are encouraged, you’ll find a stronger focus on personal growth and overall happiness. But in cultures where time off is frowned upon, work tends to dominate life, which isn’t sustainable long term. Taking a break can make you sharper, not weaker.”
Let’s explore how different countries approach career breaks and why, in many cases, stepping away from work can actually be the smartest decision.
Sweden: A System Built for Breaks and Business Ventures
In Sweden, taking time off is not just accepted—it’s part of the system. Swedish employees can take up to six months off to start their own business, with the security of knowing they can return to their previous role afterwards. While this is unpaid leave, the safety net it provides encourages people to take risks and try new ventures without the fear of losing their jobs. This policy reflects Sweden’s broader belief in balancing big ideas with daily life, fostering both creativity and better mental health.
Denmark: Flexibility to Focus on Life and Well-being
Denmark stands out for its incredibly flexible work-life balance. Employees enjoy generous leave options that aren’t restricted to just parental leave. Whether it’s taking time off to care for a loved one, recover from burnout, or simply to recharge, the Danish system allows workers to prioritize their well-being without fear of judgment. The country’s focus on happiness directly correlates with its productivity. When employees feel supported in managing life’s challenges, they return to work refreshed and more effective, benefiting not just themselves, but their teams as well.
Canada: A Growing Trend Towards Sabbaticals
Canada, with its rugged landscapes and work-hard-play-hard ethos, is slowly but steadily embracing the concept of sabbaticals. While not a legal right like in Sweden, many Canadian companies now offer extended breaks as a benefit. Sabbaticals allow employees to reset, whether they’re pursuing an adventure like skiing in the Rockies or diving into creative passions like writing or painting. For many, it’s a chance to reconnect with themselves or with family. Gary Clark emphasizes, “A good sabbatical policy isn’t just a perk—it’s an investment in people. Offering time off to recharge isn’t just generous; it’s practical and forward-thinking.”
Challenges Elsewhere: The Stigma of Time Off
Not every culture is so open to career breaks. In the U.S., taking time off can often be seen as a career risk, especially in competitive industries where constant productivity is the norm. In parts of Asia, taking a break can carry a stigma, as loyalty to the company is highly valued and any time away might be viewed as a lack of commitment. While change is slowly happening, especially in progressive companies, the cultural shift towards embracing sabbaticals is taking longer in these regions.
