DEAR HARRIETTE: I’ve been working in tech for the past five years, and I’ve saved up a decent amount of money with the intention of taking a year off to travel.

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It’s something I’ve dreamed about for a long time. I want to see the world, experience different cultures and give myself space to reflect on what I really want in life.

Lately, though, whenever I bring up this idea to friends or family, they tell me it’s irresponsible. They worry I’ll fall behind in my career or lose my momentum in such a competitive industry. Some even say I’m being selfish for stepping away from a stable job when others are struggling to find one.

I understand their concerns, but I can’t shake the feeling that I’m letting fear — or other people’s opinions — deter me from something that could

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