Brainstorms

Want to Accomplish More in Your Business? Take a Sabbatical

Counterintuitive though it may be, it could be the most valuable way you spend your time this year.

Published

3 weeks ago

April 9, 2024

INSTORE Staff Instore April 2024 Issue

PHOTO: ISTOCKPHOTO

Every seven years, designer Stefan Sagmeister closes his New York design studio for a year-long sabbatical. As he explains in a TED talk, with each sabbatical, he pursues “little experiments, things that are always difficult to accomplish during the regular working year.” The effect on Sagmeister’s studio has been profound. “Basically, everything we’ve done in the seven years following the first sabbatical came out of the thinking of that one single year,” he says. Don’t think you can take a year-long sabbatical? Schedule more time away from the office for open-sky thinking in the woods or at the beach. It may possibly be the most productive thing you do all quarter.

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”