Go on holiday: Guilt-free

As the Danish summer slowdown begins, Leslea Petersen explains why rest can be an important part of the job search process.

Photograph: Pexels: Helena Lopes

Text: Leslea Petersen

If you’ve been job hunting for a while, the idea of taking a holiday might feel irresponsible. I mean, shouldn’t you be using every spare moment to send out applications or reinvent that CV one more time? But here’s a little secret that I share with all my clients: stepping away from job applications for a short break could be the best move you make this summer. Taking time off isn’t giving up - it’s a way to recharge, rebuild your confidence, and return to your job search with a fresh new perspective.

The guilt trap

Many job seekers feel a deep sense of guilt about taking time off (I did). It’s easy to believe that if you’re not constantly applying, networking, or checking job portals, you’re going to miss out. Pressure from family or friends asking you the same question, “Have you got a job yet?” (As if you wouldn’t shout it from the rooftops), but they need to understand that you need rest and a break too. Lack of productivity doesn’t mean you no longer care or want a job, but that pressure can feel even heavier, eh? You might worry that opportunities will pass you by or that employers will think you’re not serious enough.

But here’s the thing, and before you comment, “But Leslea, I desperately need a job”, guilt doesn’t make you more employable, and taking a break will renew your energy. Rest is part of the process, and taking a break doesn’t mean you’re losing momentum - it means you’re protecting your mental health and setting yourself up for better results when you return.

Rethink what rest really means

Think of rest as an investment in your job search. When you’re constantly ‘on’, your creativity and motivation start to dwindle. A proper break helps you reset your mindset, gain perspective, and come back with renewed enthusiasm. Studies have shown that people who take regular breaks are more focused, make better decisions, and perform more effectively.

So instead of seeing a holiday as time lost, see it as time gained. You’ll return refreshed, rested and with a more positive attitude, all of which make a huge difference when you’re interviewing or networking.

“Taking a break from job hunting isn’t giving up - it’s giving yourself the energy and clarity to keep going.”

Practical tips for a guilt-free break

If you’re worried about missing out while you’re away (and it doesn’t mean taking off the whole summer - if your budget allows, then go for it), a little preparation can help you relax fully.

• Set up job alerts so you don’t have to constantly check various job portals, but change them to weekly rather than daily.

• Get some applications in before the break, especially unsolicited, as there is a lot of movement after a longer break, and you never know, one of those companies might be looking for just you in September.

• Plan your return by setting a few simple goals for when you get back, such as updating your CV or reaching out to a connection on your target list. Having a plan in place helps you get started again quickly.

• Let go of the “shoulds.” You don’t need to earn your rest. You’re allowed to enjoy your time off simply because you’re human.

Recruiters also take a break!

The hiring team are also on holiday over the summer. Of course, some are still working and looking at their next hires for after the break, but it is a quieter time in Denmark as far as jobs available are concerned. Plus, there are some great social events this time of year, and you never know who you will meet playing frisbee on the beach!

A holiday doesn’t mean you have given up

Taking a holiday as a job seeker isn’t a sign of laziness or that you have given up. It’s a sign that you value your wellbeing, and rest is a form of self-respect - it’s one of the most powerful tools you have to stay motivated and resilient.

So, this summer, give yourself permission to step away. The job search will still be there when you return, and it is truly the quiet time in Denmark, and you’ll come back with the energy, clarity, and confidence to land that perfect role.