Episode 23 - Learn How to Cope with Loneliness on a Career Break: Real Talk & Practical Tips

🌍 Taking a career break can be life-changing—but what happens when loneliness creeps in?

In this heartfelt and honest episode, Katrina and James dive into a topic that doesn’t get talked about enough: loneliness during a career break. Whether you're traveling the world solo or staying local while taking time off from work, the feeling of disconnection is real—and totally normal.

Katrina shares her own experiences and the fears she's heard from her clients, from solo backpacking in Southeast Asia to navigating the quiet moments when everyone else is busy with work and routines. James brings in the realities of solo travel and how it can be both freeing and isolating.

✨ In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why loneliness hits harder during a break—even when you're surrounded by people

• The surprising difference between being alone vs. feeling lonely

• How solo travel can actually open more doors for connection

• The downsides of being glued to your phone while traveling

• Why couples or friend-group travel might limit spontaneity

• Katrina’s favorite 5 practical strategies to fight loneliness

• James’ bonus tips from the road: smile more, sit at the bar, and embrace guesthouses!

📌 Tips Mentioned in the Episode:

• Reconnect with loved ones during your break

• Sit at the bar instead of a table when dining out

• Take local tours (even in your hometown!)

• Volunteer for a cause that matters to you

• Walk, smile, and stay open to spontaneous interactions

• Choose social accommodation (hostels, guesthouses, homestays)

  
  

  Timestamps

  00:00 Introduction to Career Breaks

  00:33 Understanding Loneliness During Breaks

  03:03 Traveling Solo: Embracing Connections

  09:03 Building Community and Combatting Loneliness

  10:51 Practical Tips for Overcoming Loneliness

  
  

  🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

  🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

  📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

  If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

  
  

  Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

  Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - www.gobreakspace.com⁠

  Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

  Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com