“The Strategy That Changed Everything” - Sue Hyun

After years in finance, where burnout is often worn as a badge of honor, I made a move that felt almost revolutionary, a 3 month, intentional sabbatical. I had reached a point of professional diminishing returns, my creativity felt dulled and my strategic vision rarely extended past the next quarter. I chose to reframe this break not as a luxury or an escape, but as a strategic investment in my most critical asset, my own capacity to lead and innovate.

The initial phase was simply about decompression. I prioritized rebuilding my foundational health like sleep, nutrition, and exercise, without the constant background hum of urgency. This recalibration was not self-indulgence, it was essential maintenance. With a clearer mind, I then had the cognitive bandwidth to engage in genuine learning, tackling a data science course out of pure curiosity. This intellectual cross-training, free from immediate pressure, sparked innovative connections I could apply directly to my work.

Perhaps the most unexpected benefit was the shift in my client relationships. Freed from the transactional pressure of the next deal, I reconnected with them on a more human level. Our conversations explored long-term challenges and visions, transforming my role from a service provider to a trusted strategic partner. This rebuilt a level of rapport and trust that has proven invaluable.

Returning, I was not just rested, I was renewed. The clarity was immediate, allowing me to cut through noise and focus on what was truly important. My energy was sustainable, and my thinking was sharper. The pause had effectively forced an audit of my energy, passion, and vision, allowing me to return with a much more effective and impactful game plan.

My advice is to challenge the culture that glorifies relentless motion. View a strategic pause not as a career risk, but as a critical component of long-term success. It is the ultimate productivity hack, providing the altitude needed to see the entire landscape and recalibrate your path. In stepping away intentionally, you don’t lose momentum; you gain the perspective to build a more sustainable and visionary form of success.

Connect With Sue

www.linkedin.com/in/sue-hyun