Hello, I am a 26-year-old looking for some advice.
I recently was laid off after working as a software engineer for about 3 years. I am very lucky as I lived with my mom who covered a good portion of my expenses. I was able to save up around 130k in cash. With insurance, gas, food, and miscellaneous things my monthly expenses at the absolute most get close to 1000.
I really want to spend some time traveling before I get older and settle down and was wondering if taking a 6-month break doing that before restarting my job search is a bad idea. If I tell future employers that I took these months to travel and focus on my health is that a red flag?
I just do not see a point in the future where I will have so much free time, money, low expenses, and energy. It's the most ideal time to explore the world imho.
Edit: I still live with my mom. I just got my last check from my company. My total work time was more around 2.5 years.
Another Edit:
Thanks for all the replies guys! I think I am going to go ahead and plan to do some traveling (not sure exactly where yet but Western Europe, Japan, and Brazil are currently at the top of my list).
I appreciate the encouragement; it has quelled that nagging feeling of falling behind I have had. Most of my days are currently spent working out, helping my mom around the house, and then really doing nothing haha. I'll make sure to not blow my savings and realize I need to be proactive in my job search when I get started again.
JobAdvisor:
Understanding Your Position:
- Financial Cushion: Your savings of 130k, considering your monthly expenses, provide a solid financial foundation.
- Flexibility: Living with your mom significantly reduces your living costs, giving you more financial freedom.
- Career Path: A 2.5-year stint in software engineering is a valuable experience.
Weighing the Pros and Cons of a Travel Break:
Pros:
- Mental and Physical Recharge: Travel can be rejuvenating, providing a much-needed break from stress and routine.
- Personal Growth: Exploring new cultures and experiences can broaden your perspective and enhance your personal development.
- Networking Opportunities: Meeting people from different backgrounds during your travels can potentially lead to new connections and career opportunities.
Cons:
- Career Momentum: A prolonged break might affect your career momentum, especially in a competitive field like software engineering.
- Skill Deterioration: Not actively practicing your skills could potentially lead to a decline in proficiency.
- Financial Risks: While your savings are substantial, extended travel can be costly, and unforeseen expenses might arise.
Recommendations:
- Create a Budget: Develop a detailed travel budget, including accommodation, transportation, food, activities, and potential emergencies.
- Set a Timeline: Determine a specific timeframe for your travels, ensuring you have enough funds to cover your expenses and return to your job search.
- Stay Connected: Maintain your professional network through online platforms, attending virtual events, or reaching out to former colleagues.
- Skill Sharpening: Explore online courses or projects to keep your skills up-to-date during your break.
- Consider Part-Time Work: If your finances allow, consider part-time remote work or freelancing to supplement your income and stay engaged in your field.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to take a travel break is a personal one. If you believe it will significantly benefit your mental and emotional well-being, and if you can manage your finances responsibly, it could be a rewarding experience. However, it's essential to weigh the potential risks and take steps to mitigate them.
Would you like to discuss specific destinations or explore potential ways to balance travel with maintaining your career momentum?