In an era where workplace stress is rampant, the wellbeing of C-Suite executives is increasingly jeopardised. A recent study by Deloitte reveals that a staggering 70% of C-Suite leaders are at risk of burnout and contemplating a move to companies that provide better workplace cultures. This alarming statistic raises urgent questions about how businesses can enhance their support for employee wellbeing and mitigate burnout.
David Banaghan, Interim CEO at recruitment software company Occupop, highlighted the pressing issue, stating that burnout accounts for 20% to 50% of employee turnover. He suggests that implementing sabbaticals could be a significant step towards improving mental health and retaining staff. “Burnout is a pressing concern for businesses and HR departments in particular. One option to combat this could be the use of sabbaticals, which can have restorative health benefits while improving your internal staff retention statistics,” he said.
The necessity of prioritising C-Suite wellbeing cannot be overstated. As the highest level of management within organisations, C-Suite executives play a crucial role in driving strategic vision and long-term success. However, the findings show that 73% of these leaders feel unable to take time off work and disconnect fully. This lack of time away from the office is concerning, especially given that burnout impacts not just individual executives but also the wider organisation.
Overworked and stressed leaders may struggle to make clear decisions, inspire innovation, and effectively guide their teams, ultimately eroding company culture and employee morale. This decline can result in increased turnover rates and reduced overall performance. To counter these challenges, businesses must take proactive steps to support their executives’ wellbeing, ensuring long-term leadership stability and fostering a more resilient organisation.
One potential solution is the introduction of sabbaticals. An estimated 90,000 professionals in the UK take career breaks each year, with 62% indicating they would do the same if given the opportunity. Historically, sabbaticals have been predominantly associated with academia, but more businesses are beginning to recognise their benefits. Sabbaticals can provide executives with the chance to recharge and return with renewed energy and fresh perspectives.
The advantages of taking sabbaticals are well-documented. In the UK, 50% of individuals who took a sabbatical reported doing so to relieve stress, with 43% noting improvements in their mental health as a result. For executives, a sabbatical offers a rare opportunity for introspection and the chance to reflect on personal and professional goals, leading to enhanced clarity in decision-making and improved leadership skills.
Despite these benefits, many executives remain hesitant to take sabbaticals. When asked about their reluctance, 24% cited workload concerns, while 22% were uncertain about whether their responsibilities could be managed in their absence. Businesses can encourage sabbatical uptake by addressing these worries and fostering a supportive culture that values employee wellbeing.
Implementing a clear sabbatical policy, promoting the benefits of extended breaks, and providing transitional support can help ease executives’ concerns. A structured policy outlining eligibility, duration, and communication expectations during sabbaticals can empower executives to plan their time away without fear of negative repercussions for the organisation.
As nearly 70% of C-Suite leaders consider leaving their jobs for better wellbeing support, it is imperative that businesses prioritise executive health. Sabbaticals may serve as an effective tool to address this pressing issue, benefiting not only individuals but also the organisation as a whole.