PAMPER & PURGE: How a month-long sabbatical allowed me to reset and gain perspective

By: Ruth Behr, Managing Partner

Ruth has over two decades of experience in market research and has been the managing partner of Talk Shoppe for 12 years.

At Talk Shoppe, we've discovered that taking an extended break from the daily routine can be the key to unlocking new levels of success. So having spent 12 years helping to guide our team through the ebb and flow of our industry, I recently embarked on a month-long sabbatical - a benefit we proudly extend to every team member after their fifth year with us.

I termed my journey "Pamper & Purge," marking a blend of self-care, personal growth, and lifestyle introspection that deepened my understanding of the value we provide through this benefit.

In the "Pamper" phase of my sabbatical, I enjoyed wellness retreats and spa days and cherished time with family and friends in the desert. I reconnected with friends over meals, took on parenting with renewed mindfulness, and found fresh perspectives on life's simple joys. In addition, it was a great chance to enjoy the rewards of hard work.

The "Purge" phase was all about transformation and mindful living. So I rolled up my sleeves and dug into those closets and rooms, usually out of sight. As I decluttered and organized, my personal spaces started to reflect the clarity we at Talk Shoppe aim for in our work. I let go of things that didn't bring me joy or purpose, like clearing mental clutter. This big tidy-up was more than just about space; it was a chance to fully embrace the focus and mindfulness that are so important in our work-life culture at Talk Shoppe.

I also found time to contribute to an out-of-school art project, a task far from my usual skillset. However, engaging with my school community revealed the depth of connection and personal growth achievable when we step out of our comfort zones, something we encourage our employees to do.  

However, this sabbatical wasn't merely about self-care and personal growth. It provided a perspective shift, highlighting the power of trust, an essential element of our internal culture.

While I was away, I witnessed our dedicated team stepping up, showcasing the strength of our collective capabilities. This experience was a testament to the trust within our team and reassured me that our clients were in competent hands.

My "Pamper & Purge" sabbatical highlights one of the fantastic benefits we offer at Talk Shoppe. It allowed me to unwind, declutter, and gather new insights - all key ingredients in the unique blend of trust, changing perspectives, and personal growth that we value as an organization. We're big believers in work-life balance, meaning we can do our best work for our clients. That's what makes Talk Shoppe stand out.