I think it’s important to have detailed plans (daily schedules etc) to keep yourself busy albeit at leisurely pace. More importantly have specific goals. It doe

I think it’s important to have detailed plans (daily schedules etc) to keep yourself busy albeit at leisurely pace. More importantly have specific goals. It doesn’t have to be career-oriented goals. It can be something simple like “learning to play an instrument”. If you’re planning on going back to the same field, have a side project going (doesn’t even have to be successful) to keep up with the latest technologies (toolings, trends, etc). This is especially important now because things move rather fast. Don’t burn any bridges and keep regular contacts with people from your prior work. Do not completely unplug. Lastly, do focus on your mental health. I am assuming people who do this are burnt out and have worked stupid hours for years on end. It takes longer than you think to recover from all the physical and mental stress. Focus on yourself!