One lasting gift: A dog named Blue

Before she could truly settle into her 2021 sabbatical, Jess Peña first had to find her way through a sense of being “stuck”.

Moderating energy in nonprofit leadership roles can often be a challenge, but going from full-steam to an unexpected full-stop inspired her to research tools and strategies for neurodivergent individuals. Having the dedicated time and space to focus on learning more about her own brain and connecting with other neurodiverse leaders in the process became one of the greatest gifts of Peña’s sabbatical.

While COVID-19 foiled some travel plans, other trips proved a delight, particularly a week Peña spent alone traveling through Ireland. Miles of biking on Inis Mór, the largest of the Aran Islands, showed her an “aesthetic wonderland” that she said struck chords at a cellular level.

In addition, Peña practiced learning Spanish daily and adopted a rescue puppy named Blue, who has since become a constant source of joy. The sabbatical allowed Peña to step back into her life to be present and available in ways she felt she hadn’t been for a long time.

“The experience gave rise to so many points of reflection that I am still trying to learn from and hold onto,” Peña said. “I am grateful for it all.