I feel like I'm somewhat ready to hit the interview circuit, but i also really want a break due to recent events to go travel. I could make do with anything from 3 months to 1 year. Is it better to interview now and then ask for the break before starting, or take a break and then interview? Taking a break first seems like it would be more successful but jts also risky because i lose interview readiness and also i have a gap on my resume while applying. Anyone with experience in this? Also, I know 5 yoe is a huge benchmark for some companies for L5 vs L4. Facebook is at least very strict on this from a recent phone screen. Would it be better to wait 6 months to hit my 5 years? I really just want to quit now i have the money saved and am fed up with my current daily life. yoe: 4.5 tc: 113k
I think you might be conflating 2 different things. I understand you say u r fed up of current daily life. Do u think u need a break or do u think u just need change. If a change will do then interview and move. If u need a break. U can take a break and interview/prepare during the break. If u need a break (period). Take a break. Come back and interview. But keep in mind it's easier to interview with no full-time work to worry about.
If you can do with 6-8 weeks off then do your interviews then request a start date 6-8 weeks out. Anything more than that and it’ll be hard. If you really need a 3+ month break maybe hit Your 5 years then take a break Also remember you’ll lose 2 weeks to your 2 weeks notice. So maybe give notice even before you get your offer if you think interviews are going well