How to make a gap year work for you

Have you ever thought about taking a break from the boring everyday life and traveling around the world? Believe us, we've thought about it, too. If you still want to escape and rediscover life in a new way, then this article is for you.

Most people think gap year is most likely to be taken before or after you finish your education or career, but lately we've been increasingly noticing people doing it in the middle of their life journey. This is due to the rebellious nature more and more people have nowadays. They want to be free and go around the world; to indulge in their hobbies or seek love.

If you're still wondering whether to embark on the gap year adventure, in this article we'll give answers to your questions and explain how this can only bring you positive outcomes.

Gap year – is it a good idea?

The short answer is clear - gap year is absolutely worth it. If you need arguments, here are a few of them.

·       As long as you make the most of your time and follow specific goals, gap year is a great solution for you

·       If you haven't travelled enough over the years, now is the time to do so

·       If you want to save money on education, gap year is the right thing to do

·       You can take a break if you want to take an extra course or acquire new skills

·       If you're looking to find yourself or inspiration, gap year can do the job

Having introduced you to the main positives of gap year, it's time to explain to you what to do when you decide to take a break.

Explore and plan in advance

The first step towards a productive "holiday" is to do your research and set goals that you will aim for in your spare time. Want to go around tourist destinations or find love? No matter what your reason is, the end result is important.

If you want to explore more about your personality and decide where exactly to go, take our free personality test here:

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Draw up a budget

Both at university and during your holiday, you need to be very economical. You probably won't work, so your expenses won't be offset by income. To save yourself unnecessary stress, start making your budget a few months earlier.

This can be achieved by saving money every month; you might find options for passive income; be careful of debt such as loans, etc. It's important to rely on yourself, but there is nothing wrong with seeking help from a friend.

Sign up for an internship or attend courses for new qualifications

Although gap year is often associated with a vacation, you can use it to start an internship somewhere or enroll in so-called courses that will help you with professional qualifications. This could be a great opportunity to pay off in your work years later.

Want to become a piano teacher or be a waiter at a seaside resort? What's stopping you? Gap year is a great way to make any of these dreams come true and gain experience in the field in which you want to develop. Another option is to work something different from your current job. It's up to you.

Another option is to learn a new skill or acquire a qualification that can give up great help for your future development. Investing in knowledge is always a very good option to develop. If you decide to travel the world, you can learn a new language and later put it into practice.

Run a project that you have postponed

If you've been dreaming of doing your own project, but didn't find time to start it, now the time has come. When you take a gap year, you'll have time to plan, research and then take action.

You will be surprised how having 365 days in which you can do whatever you want can have a very beneficial effect on your creativity and ingenuity. If you manage to accomplish your project, it will be a great addition to your portfolio, which you will present to your future employers.

Be proud of your experience

When the time for a big comeback comes, you will have to prepare for the reality. How do you explain your absence to people? What about your potential employers?

If your gap year has been productive and you've managed to achieve a lot of things during it, there's nothing to worry about. Acquiring new professional skills or experience can walk you up to top positions in famous companies you haven't even dreamed of. So be brave and proudly mention your gap year.

Meet new people

The friendships you will create during your gap year can last a lifetime. They are the ones who can help your further development, as well as open your eyes to new worlds, and why not – a new love? You never know who you're going to meet, so be open to new adventures and have fun all the time.

Conclusion

So, are you ready for your gap year? It can last both 365 days and several months - it all depends on your own needs. This can be a positive experience that will lead to many positive outcomes for your professional life ahead of you.

With the help of our tips, you will be able to plan and structure your gap year and make the most of it.

You've already returned from your vacation and are wondering where to go? At Jobbri you can find your dream position – just fill out your CV using our CV builder and start searching for your next job.

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