Is It Time For a Sabbatical?

katrinadhamel
13 minutes ago
2 min read

When burnout starts whispering (or shouting)

"Is it time to step back and take a break?"

That’s the question that’s been turning round and round in my mind for weeks now. I’m experiencing what could be called burnout from trying to do everything at once.

Like many indie authors, I juggle a myriad of tasks and expectations. Indie publishing requires a lot of time and mental energy—especially if you do it my way, which is to say… you do everything yourself. (I do not recommend.)

An exhausted woman lies on a couch. The caption reads: Is it time for a sabbatical? Trusting God in a Season of Rest.

The tension: burnout after publishing a book

That said, this is not exactly a convenient time to join the ranks of burnt-out indie authors.

I just released a novel I spent the last two years writing, editing, and preparing to publish. I’m incredibly proud of it, and I want to put it into the hands of readers.

I know I need to market. But when I try to do the things, I find myself paralyzed. It’s a kind of exhaustion that lingers—even two months after publication.

Why I’m choosing a sabbatical

After seven years of indie publishing, I think it’s time for a sabbatical.

Most people associate sabbaticals with pastors—taking a few months off to learn, travel, regroup, and return refreshed. Often, this happens around the seven-year mark.

I can see why.

But it’s also rooted in a biblical principle from the Old Testament. Every seventh year, the people were instructed to let the land rest—an intentional pause to trust God’s provision and draw closer to Him.

(Read my post: 14 Facts You Might Not Know About the Sabbath Year)

I may not be a pastor, but I do share God’s truth through fiction. I connect with readers, pray for them, and offer encouragement when I can.

So no—I don’t think it’s a stretch to call this season a sabbatical.

What my sabbatical will look like

Here’s what stepping back will mean for me:

I’m stepping away from treating writing like a job. If I write, it will be for pleasure.
I’m letting go of the pressure of social media, newsletters, and marketing.
I’ll read for enjoyment and personal growth.
I’ll spend more time in Bible study.
I’ll focus on getting my health back on track.

Of course, I still have my day job, my family, and my home. It’s not months away on a beach somewhere.

I’m simply removing one very heavy thing from my plate.

The fear of stepping away

If I’m honest… it feels a little scary.

My newest book will likely sell less than my previous releases. I may lose some of the audience I’ve built. There’s even that quiet fear that I won’t recover—that I won’t write another book.