Embracing Change: Lessons from My Sabbatical

Life has a way of throwing curveballs when we least expect them. My recent sabbatical, meant to be a period of rest and reflection, turned into a journey of unexpected challenges and profound realizations. Here’s what I’ve learned during this time and how it’s shaping the way I approach life, work, and family moving forward.

1. Family First: The Wake-Up Call

Not long into my sabbatical, my wife had a mental breakdown. It was a stark reminder that life’s pressures can weigh heavily on all of us, often when we least anticipate it. This crisis made it clear that my family needed me more than ever, especially my 8-year-old daughter. She needed to see her father not just as a distant provider but as a present and active participant in her daily life. Being an ultimate contractor has to take a second seat.

2. The Decision to Merge Studio and Home

In response, I made the decision to merge my studio back into our home. Working from home isn’t just a convenience—it’s a necessity. It allows me to be there for my family while still pursuing my career. My daughter’s school, while good, is limited in its ability to provide everything she needs. Being at home, I can supplement her education and be a role model she sees every day, not just someone who leaves in the morning and returns in the evening. Also for the younger daughter it is better to watch daddy work at home and get used to the video production devices and the tools.

3. Income Inequality and the Need for Adaptation

As I’ve been home more, I’ve had time to reflect on broader societal issues, like the growing income inequality. The gap between the wealthy and the rest of society is widening, and it’s clear that traditional models of working and earning aren’t as reliable as they once were. This realization has fueled my determination to build assets and invest in rental properties. It’s about creating a stable financial future that isn’t dependent on a single source of income or a traditional job. Also the nice selection for my youtube creation got shifted to "closing skills gaps by leveraging technology" where i would be able to help others as i am constantly learning new tech and helping the customers.

4. The Long Race: Building and Adapting

Building assets and renting them out isn’t a short-term game; it’s a long race. It requires patience, resilience, and a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances. I’ve learned that you need to be proactive, not a sitting duck waiting for things to happen. This mindset shift has been crucial as I navigate this new phase of my life. Being 44 and seeing the short term dopamine hikes are great to keep you learning

5. Embracing the Center Saloon: My New Work Hub

With this new work-from-home setup, I’ve created what I call the “Center Saloon.” It’s a dedicated space in our home where I can focus on work without compromising family time. It’s also a place where my daughters can see me in action, understanding that work is a part of life but not something that takes me away from her. I plan to use the 65 inc samsung tv and the 49 inc as the master place. This time the home would have outside access unlike the flat and people would be able to do lunch and learn all the time at home. Also move to Reading where i would be close to work.

6. Taxes, Accountability, and Self-Care

Another lesson learned is the importance of accepting the realities of taxes and financial responsibilities. It’s easy to blame the system or others when things get tough, but I’ve realized that accountability starts with me. I can’t control everything, but I can control my response and my actions.

Finally, I’ve doubled down on the basics: sleep, diet, exercise. Long walks have become a daily ritual, offering not just physical benefits but also the mental clarity needed to tackle life’s challenges. It’s these simple practices that provide the foundation for everything else.

7. Cognitive Dissonance

Going through everything and seeing my self under dissonance made me more change and adapt friendly so i can make bolder decisions to affect my expenses,producty and sales. Connecting the dots in 2024 after covid to make the future bright again is very important. You got one life and live with dissonance while learning to relax.

Conclusion: A Journey of Growth

My sabbatical didn’t go as planned, but it turned into something far more valuable—a time of growth, adaptation, and deepened connections with my family. Life is a long race, and while the path may be unpredictable, I’m embracing it with a renewed focus on what truly matters. Work, family, and personal well-being aren’t separate entities—they’re interconnected, and balancing them is the key to a fulfilling life.

Connect with me:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rifaterdemsahin/
Twitter: https://x.com/rifaterdemsahin
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RifatErdemSahin

Imported from rifaterdemsahin.com · 2024