Workers cited mental health, a relief from work stress and a desire to have more life experiences as primary reasons for wanting to take an extended leave. However, concerns about financial insecurity, career setbacks and losing healthcare and benefits gave them pause.

But roughly a third of millennials and Gen Z workers said they believe micro-retirement will become a standard career practice in the future, the study found. Already, companies have turned to more flexible benefits and time off policies to accommodate workers, such as expanded parental leave, ‘pawternity’ leave and paid leave for military spouses to help with moves. READ MORE