Micro-retirements are on the rise. Here’s what to know

By Leena Kulkarni for Spring Health

Why are some high-performing employees walking away from their jobs for weeks or even months at a time—voluntarily? The answer lies in the rise of “micro-retirements,” a career break trend especially popular among Gen Z and millennial workers. An estimated 10% of U.S. workers plan to take a micro-retirement this year, according to SideHustles.com.

Unlike traditional sabbaticals, which are often employer-sponsored, micro-retirements are self-directed breaks that employees take throughout their careers. They allow individuals to rest, travel, pursue personal growth, or simply take a breather from modern work stress.

While many headlines celebrate this as a savvy lifestyle choice—”retirement fun” while you’re still young and fit—there’s a deeper workplac