After being laid off, two former ANZ Bank coworkers decided to take a surf camp trip to Bali. They had both received generous severance packages and saw this break as an opportunity to recharge after decades of work. The trip helped them reset and they plan to take similar trips again. Heath Kitson and William Lu, who worked at ANZ Bank in Melbourne, shared their experiences. Kitson managed a team of data analysts for seven years before being laid off. Lu was at the bank for eleven years and reported to Kitson. They both felt the layoff was a change, as Kitson hadn't been out of work for even two weeks in 20 years. They were advised not to job hunt all day, but instead to spend only two hours a day looking for work and using the rest of the time to do things that made them happy and refreshed. The surf camp in Bali was suggested by Kitson, who wanted to do something active and energizing. Lu, who had surfed before, was convinced to join. They enjoyed the freedom and relaxation of the surf camp, and their families were happy to have them out of the house. Many friends and coworkers expressed friendly jealousy and wanted to join them on future trips. Kitson and Lu plan to take similar trips again and suggest others in similar situations to do the same.
