In this conversation, Santosh Mahale shares his unique sabbatical journey, taking a break from a career he loves as a management consultant, to pursuing his passion for art and oil painting.

He discusses the origins of his interest in painting, the decision to take a sabbatical, and the challenges and successes he faced along the way.

Santosh emphasises the importance of having clear goals, the need for balance in life, and the unexpected support he received from his international network. He also reflects on the creative process behind his artwork and offers valuable advice for those considering a sabbatical to pursue a creative passion.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Sabbatical Stories

01:15 Santosh's Journey: From Engineer to Artist

02:44 The Tipping Point: Why Take a Sabbatical?

07:01 Establishing an Art Style and First Exhibition

12:25 Navigating the Sabbatical Experience

15:06 Finding Balance in Life and Art

18:09 Expectations vs. Reality of a Sabbatical

27:32 Unexpected Success and Support

32:49 Top Tips for Taking a Sabbatical

Guest bio: Santosh is a management consultant with over 20 years experience in the industry. Recently he has transitioned to working independently as a freelance consultant, while also pursuing his long-standing passion for fine art professionally Find Santosh and his art at these links:

https://santoshmahale.com/

https://www.instagram.com/santoshmahale.art/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/santoshmahale/

Get in touch: If you are interested in sharing your sabbatical story, we would love to hear from you. Buzz us a DM on Instagram - ⁠@Sabbatical_Stories⁠ or reach out on LinkedIn - ⁠Bex Thomas.⁠

Career transition, sabbatical and career break coaching:

As a career transition, sabbatical, and career break coach, I inspire, challenge, and support people like you to create a life that feels deeply aligned with your values, dreams, and authentic self.

Whether you’re craving a new direction, a chance to pause, or the courage to pursue what really matters, I’m here to guide you toward your own version of success on your terms.

Together, we’ll break free from societal blueprints, rewrite the rules, and design a future you’re excited to wake up to.

Learn more ⁠here⁠

💫 Ready to make the most of your time away from work

Download my free guide, "5 Ways to Maximise Your Career Break", packed with practical tips and soulful insights to help you pause with purpose and return with clarity.

Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already on sabbatical, this is your essential companion.

👉 Grab your free copy ⁠here⁠

With special thanks to:

Aunty B at the Flaxen, our amazing, talented and patient producer whose expertise helps make this podcast shine.

⁠Joanna Cooke⁠, whose soulful blend of smooth vocals we are lucky enough to use throughout the show. Listen and connect with Joanna via your favourite medium:

Website - ⁠https://joannacooke.co.uk⁠

YouTube - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/joannacooke⁠

Instagram - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/joanna.cooke/⁠

Facebook - ⁠https://www.facebook.com/joannacookemusic/⁠