I'm assuming that, by inclusion of the point of being unmarried/29/no-kids, you're implying that eventually want to get married and have kids. Once you are fin

I'm assuming that, by inclusion of the point of being unmarried/29/no-kids, you're implying that eventually want to get married and have kids. Once you are financially responsible for other human beings (in part or full), this decision gets more complex. Without adequate planning and savings, leaving your employer may be downright irresponsible. But that's not the case right now it seems - all you'll affect is yourself. So another angle to consider is that - if you're 5-10 years in the future and have all these responsibilities, which path would you have rather taken? I took 3 months off work once to pursue something when I was at a similar stage in life as you, with the view that I'd delay the decision to come back if I made good progress. Keeping to a schedule was something I didn't do - and if I could go back that's the main thing I'd enforce (and probably allow a little more time, and quit instead of take extended leave). Unfortunately it didn't work out for reasons of progress and other responsibilities I still had at the time, and I just went back to work. No regrets, I might try it again in the future and I'd be better placed to do so. As for managing others' perceptions - framing it as "trying something out before getting another job" is seemingly more socially more acceptable. But just be careful not to let that mindset reduce your valour in the endeavour. Best of luck whichever path you take!