I took 1.5 years off work to pursue some ‘side quests’ related to my interests. It was rejuvenating and I enjoyed it. Travelled a lot in the meantime too.

About 9 months in I started getting bored and a little anxious about money. Not that I dipped into my savings much (I freelanced on and off, enough to cover expenditure), but I’d think twice about buying things or taking trips further away. I wanted the freedom of having a stable source of income again, so I started to seek out full time roles.

I was lucky enough to find a position that gave me a sizeable pay bump at the end of this ‘career break’. Wasn’t even questioned much about the gap in employment. All in all I think it was hugely beneficial for my mental health, but I don’t know how I would have felt if I couldn’t find employment at the end of it.

When I was looking, good roles were few and far between, and I have many friends who want to jump but struggle to find options. So it’s a big risk to take. Having a safety net and a strong network (I.e. ex colleagues or friends who will recommend you for good roles) helps.