# Should You Take a Leave of Absence Instead of Quitting? Pros & Cons Explained

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/taking-a-career-break-with-katrina-mcghee-7039735/should-you-take-a-leave-of-absence-instead-of-quitting-pros-cons-explained
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/taking-a-career-break-with-katrina-mcghee-7039735/should-you-take-a-leave-of-absence-instead-of-quitting-pros-cons-explained.md
Podcast: [Taking a Career Break with Katrina McGhee](https://stenobird.com/podcast/taking-a-career-break-with-katrina-mcghee-7039735)
Published: 2026-04-16T02:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wingingitproductions/episodes/Should-You-Take-a-Leave-of-Absence-Instead-of-Quitting--Pros--Cons-Explained-e3hvp5n
Audio file: https://anchor.fm/s/10363f8cc/podcast/play/118530679/https%3A%2F%2Fd3ctxlq1ktw2nl.cloudfront.net%2Fstaging%2F2026-3-16%2F422168194-44100-2-26c1869966ba.mp3
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Duration seconds: 2144

## Resource

Episode 65 - Should You Take a Leave of Absence Instead of Quitting? Pros & Cons Explained In this episode of Taking a Career Break with Katrina McGhee , we tackle a question that’s coming up more and more: should you take a leave of absence instead of quitting for a full career break? After seeing multiple clients face this exact situation—being offered a leave of absence after handing in their notice—Katrina and James break down the real differences, pros, cons, and hidden trade-offs between these two paths. You’ll learn why a leave of absence might feel like the “safe” option, but could come with emotional, psychological, and even financial costs that aren’t immediately obvious. From paid vs unpaid leave, benefits, and job security to burnout recovery, identity shifts, and long-term life alignment—this episode covers it all. If you’re feeling stuck, burned out, or dreaming of time off, this conversation will help you make a clear, confident decision about your next move . RSVP for the 'Take a Break Without Falling Behind' Workshop : ⁠⁠https://app.heartbeat.chat/breakspace/events/552F4A ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Intro & episode overview 00:51 – What is a leave of absence? 02:29 – Why this topic is trending right now 03:56 – Paid vs unpaid leave explained 04:50 – Leave of absence vs sabbatical vs vacation 07:16 – How companies use leave to retain employees 08:13 – Real client examples (paid vs unpaid offers) 11:50 – Pro #1: Keep your job security 12:48 – Pro #2: Reduced anxiety about the future 13:47 – Pro #3: No resume gaps 14:38 – Pro #4: Potential financial savings 15:33 – Pro #5: Start with leave, extend into a break 18:50 – Financial reality check (hidden costs & math) 19:54 – International perspective on healthcare & leave 21:27 – Con #1: Paperwork &…

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