How I Overcame the Obstacles in My Career Even After a Decade of Break

Taking a long career break is never easy. Society often measures us by our job titles, salaries, and promotions. When life takes you away from the “expected” career path, it can feel like you are left behind while the rest of the world is racing ahead. I know this feeling very well. My career break lasted more than a decade. It was not a short pause — it was a long season filled with challenges, doubts, and setbacks. But looking back today, I can say with pride that it was also the foundation of my strength, clarity, and purpose. The Struggles Behind the Break My break wasn’t about leisure. It was filled with personal battles — health issues, anxiety, grief, and the weight of expectations. At times, even the thought of returning to a workplace felt impossible. The world kept moving, technology evolved, and peers advanced in their careers while I remained still. Self-doubt became my biggest enemy. “Who will hire me after so many years? What skills do I even have left?” These questions replayed in my mind often. What Changed the Game The turning point came when I decided to stop measuring my worth by the gap and instead by my resilience. Instead of hiding my struggles, I reframed them as life lessons. Here’s what helped me move forward: Rediscovering My Strengths – I listed out what I was naturally good at: listening, guiding others, and communicating. These became the seeds of my new career. Continuous Learning – I invested in learning again — from online courses to training programs. Small steps helped me rebuild my confidence. Seeking Support – I reached out to mentors, joined communities, and slowly began to engage with the world outside my comfort zone. Starting Small – I didn’t wait for the “perfect” big job. Instead, I embraced opportunities that matched my skills and helped me rebuild my career identity. From Break to Purpose Today, I work as a Career Coach, helping others who face challenges like career gaps, self-doubt, or anxiety. My own journey allows me to connect deeply with people who feel “stuck.” I don’t just offer strategies — I offer lived experience, hope, and practical guidance. My career break no longer feels like wasted time. It was a period of learning resilience, patience, and self-awareness. Without it, I would not have the clarity or empathy I have today. My Message to You If you are someone sitting with a career gap — whether it’s months or years — please remember this: a break doesn’t define your future. You can return, rebuild, and even reinvent yourself. Start small. Believe in the skills you already have. Learn what you can. And most importantly, don’t give up on yourself. Because if I could rise after a decade of silence in my career, you too can create a new story filled with meaning, success, and purpose.