Micro-retirement' is one way to address burnout — but comes with risks

The idea is that it is possible to restore your energy and well-being by dipping in and out of working life, with small or large career breaks.

- Sugumar Mariappanadar

For young people in the early stages of their career, the idea of waiting 40 years or more to retire might feel like a marathon. For those already feeling burnt out, it can be an excruciating thought. So—why not take a break or two somewhere along the way?

The concept of "micro-retirement" is having a moment. While the term appears to have been first coined in 2007, it has recently found new popularity on social media.

The idea is that retirement does not have to be a fixed, clearly defined period at the end of your working life. Rather, it is possible to restore your human energy and levels of well-being by dipping in and out of it, with small or large career breaks.

Many onlookers have pointed out that the underlying concept is not a new idea. Sabbaticals and other kinds of career breaks have been a feature of the workforce for a long time.

However, the trend gripping some Gen Z workers on social media appears to be slightly different. And while it is trying to solve some legitimate problems, it could also carry some unique risks.

TAKING A BREAK The notion that rest is crucial—that humans should not just work themselves into the ground—is very old indeed.

Major religions around the world have long preached the importance of rest and restoration for human beings to survive the hardship of paid work.

Career breaks, however, are a bit different from the ordinary rest opportunities we get such as weekends, public holidays and annual leave. There are a few different types.