Took a half-year to hike and camp around forests and parks. No income, no hustles. A few hobby projects to scratch the problem-solving itch.
Pros:
- I got to learn about myself, and try new hobbies that I never knew I would enjoy.
- It was a good reminder that there is more to life than work, and most job stress is ultimately meaningless.
- It reinforced the belief that I have autonomy, and that it's okay to simply say no and leave bad situations.
- Finding a new job after wasn't too hard, most people will understand an honest explanation for this type of hole in your resume.
Cons:
- Huge opportunity cost. Between spending and lack of income, it probably cost low 6 figures.
- It might have been better to recognize that I was burning out sooner and look for healthier alternatives, instead of hitting my breaking point and swinging hard towards the opposite end of the work spectrum.
Ultimately, it's probably the best choice I ever made. Your youth goes away very quickly, and it would have been almost impossible to do with serious health problems, a mortgage, or a family to support.
Pros:
- I got to learn about myself, and try new hobbies that I never knew I would enjoy.
- It was a good reminder that there is more to life than work, and most job stress is ultimately meaningless.
- It reinforced the belief that I have autonomy, and that it's okay to simply say no and leave bad situations.
- Finding a new job after wasn't too hard, most people will understand an honest explanation for this type of hole in your resume.
Cons:
- Huge opportunity cost. Between spending and lack of income, it probably cost low 6 figures.
- It might have been better to recognize that I was burning out sooner and look for healthier alternatives, instead of hitting my breaking point and swinging hard towards the opposite end of the work spectrum.
Ultimately, it's probably the best choice I ever made. Your youth goes away very quickly, and it would have been almost impossible to do with serious health problems, a mortgage, or a family to support.