New Delhi, June 14 -- Corporate burnout is real. There are times when I think of leaving everything. But, I guess a sabbatical is a wiser option. At the same time, I wonder if I can afford such a decision. I asked ChatGPT.

I want you to act as a career analyst and behavioural decision coach. Help me answer one uncomfortable but important question honestly: can I realistically afford to step away from work for one full year without damaging my finances, career options, relationships or future peace of mind? I do not want motivational advice about escaping corporate life. I also do not want automatic warnings about lost income.

I want a financially realistic and psychologically grounded framework. Please assume the following hypothetical ...