Frances Benjamin shares her mini-retirement story and the transformative impact it had on her life. Before her mini-retirement, Frances was working multiple jobs and juggling the responsibilities of being a single mom. The catalyst for her decision to take a break was the pandemic and the realization that her daughter would soon be leaving the nest. Frances prepared for her mini-retirement by decluttering, saving money, and paying off debt. She embarked on her break with her daughter, traveling to Mexico and Thailand, immersing themselves in the local culture and enjoying the freedom to do what brought them joy. 

Unexpectedly, Frances had to return home due to a family emergency, but this experience brought her closer to her father and reinforced the importance of prioritizing family. The mini-retirement allowed Frances to shift her mindset about work, putting herself and her family first. She now values her own well-being and is more selective about the commitments she takes on. Frances encourages other women to take breaks and prioritize their own happiness.

Takeaways

• Taking a mini retirement can be a transformative experience, allowing individuals to prioritize their own happiness and well-being.

• Family emergencies can disrupt a mini-retirement, but they can also bring family members closer together.

• A mini-retirement can lead to a shift in mindset about work, with individuals valuing their own well-being and prioritizing family.

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