Taking a ‘Circuit’ Break

Why I’m Flipping the Circuit Breaker on My Career (For Now)

If you’ve ever tinkered with electronics, you know what a circuit breaker does: it cuts the power before anything burns out. Turns out, careers might need a similar kind of switch.

Here’s why I’m hitting pause on a career in Medical Technology (MedTech) that I have absolutely loved for more than 20 years. It’s been a non-stop ride from my college graduation into an industry bursting with innovation, challenges, and genuine, life-altering impacts. I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with some brilliant minds—friends, mentors, and yes, even a few frenemies.

From coding software used as GPS in surgery to steering regional business strategies, I’ve never felt bored or stuck in a rut. My journey has allowed me to live and work in three countries and ultimately led me to a role as Managing Director at a vibrant SME—an opportunity that was both exhilarating and initially daunting.

But after five years as MD and navigating the challenges of a global pandemic, I find myself at a familiar crossroads. Having achieved much of what I aimed to do when I took on the position, it’s time for a breather. A ‘circuit break,’ if you will, to recharge and envision my next steps.

Here’s What I’m Looking To Do:

• Reconnect with the Outdoors: I’m eager to swap my office chair for swimming, hiking, and immersing myself in the natural world.
• Deepen My Relationship: Bryan and I are taking this journey together. His experience with sabbaticals and my zest for new beginnings make us ideal travel partners. I look forward to sharing more about our unique connection in future posts.
• Find Clarity: Free from meetings, budgets, and emails, I’m searching for fresh inspiration for the next chapter of my career. This isn’t about retiring or living a life of leisure—I see this as the midpoint, with another exciting 20 years ahead.

Bryan and I have set a few travel principles:

• Travel Light: If it doesn’t fit in a carry-on, it stays behind.
• Stay Flexible: We’ve got plans, but we’re ready to improvise.
• Time Apart: Independence is crucial, so we’re dedicating personal time each week.
• Explore Uses of AI: As computer science majors and self-proclaimed nerds, we’re excited to learn about and incorporate AI into our travels and daily lives. Stay tuned for more on this in future posts!

As I step away from the adrenaline-fueled pace of MedTech, I’m disconnecting from the circuit of constant activity to break the pattern. This isn’t just about taking a break—it’s about forging a new way forward, rethinking how I want the next chapters of my life to unfold.

Here’s to the roads less traveled, the stories waiting to be told, and the new circuits we’ll create along the way.

Pippi Beach Yamba, NSW