In some industries, taking a sabbatical isn't allowed, though. It's tough, because I think you're right--we all should take advantage of these. Even now, I love bring a full-time writer, but I'm not yet at the income level that could afford me the ability to be as selective as I'd like with the steady gigs I take--more than two weeks away from any would render me unable to live. And yet, I'd love to dedicate a couple of months to fine-tuning my novel, exploring the wotld, etc. I know I'll get there, I just don't know when or how