I took a yearlong sabbatical when I turned 50. It taught me to prioritize living over making a living.

Chana Widawski took a yearlong sabbatical to celebrate her 50th birthday.

Somya Rakshit

• Chana Widawski handed in her notice after feeling burned out at work.
• She celebrated her 50th birthday with a yearlong sabbatical.
• Now 51 and back in New York, she says the sabbatical taught her to prioritize living over making a living.

Burnout is real, and so is turning 50.

As I neared both, I knew it was time for a sabbatical. I needed a break from my job as a...