This post originally appeared onThe Simple Dollar.
My cousin and her husband, who Ill call Nina and Craig, plan ahead often for extended breaks.
One time, they walked the length of the Continental Divide.
Another time, they walked the length of the Appalachian Trail.
Yet another time, they set off on a cross-country bicycling adventure.
Unfortunately, his business didnt take off like he hoped and hes back in his previous career path.
What do each of these cases have in common?
Here are some of the strategies that all of these stories have in common.
Like it or not, thats going to add up to a lot of money.
This is not a cheap proposition.
Here are some things to think about while planning.
Furthermore, what money will you better support whatever it is that you plan on working on?
Walk through all of those expenses and know what youre going to need to cover.
see to it that all but the worst events dont derail your plans.
Eat all of your meals at home and take leftovers to work.
Move to a smaller home or apartment.
There aremanystrategies it’s possible for you to use here.
If you take an extended leave and do nothing of value with it, what was the point?
If youre going to start a business, develop a thorough business plan.Dont just think about it.
Find mentors that will look at it and give you suggestions.
Plan those days out now.
Even better, start practicing your skills now in your spare time.
If youre going on an adventure, plan at least the framework of that adventure.When will you leave?
How long will it actually take (with some extra time thrown in to handle unexpected events)?
What will you actually need on this adventure?
What preparatory steps will it’s crucial that you take to pull it off?
Make a packing list.
Make a timeline of things you oughta take care of.
Do the thinking now so it’s possible for you to jump right into the doing later.
When you step away from your current career path for an extended break,dont burn bridges.
Do everything you possibly can to step away in the most positive fashion possible.
That will almost always harbor negative feelings.
Dont leave with an angry rant against anyone, even if you feel its justified.
Be positive with everyone in your final days.
What small steps can you take now to make it possible?
What about a few steps even while youre gone?
What new things are coming down the pike that you gotta be aware of?
Things will change while youre away.
Good luck in wherever your adventures may take you!
Photo byAtlas Greenvia Unsplash.