We’re constantly told to run head first into our 20s, but sometimes it’s worth slowing down and taking stock of your situation. Taking time off uni can give you some really valuable perspective; be that a confirmation of your doubts, or a chance to rediscover the passion for your degree.

Here are some signs that some time off uni is what you really need right now.

#1 You’re Prioritising Work

If you find yourself running out of hours in the week, it’s probably best to rearrange your priorities before something gives. Whether you’re struggling to keep up with rent or your opportunities at work are expanding, it’s definitely worth reconsidering if you find yourself prioritising work over study.

Focusing on one exclusively means you have more time to dedicate (and more hours to earn money), which means better performance on each end. Better to whole ass one thing than half ass two, as they say. (By “they”, we obviously mean Ron Swanson.) 

#2 You’re Having Degree Doubts

If you’re starting to suspect that you’ve chosen the wrong path, taking time off can be a good, non-committal way to get some perspective. Experience life without uni, and explore alternative options you’ve had your eye on. Even if you conclude that your passion still lies with your original course, at least you took the time to know for sure.

#3 You Feel Burnt Out 

It happens to the best of us. The voluminous readings and assignments that come with uni can very easily drive you into a corner. If uni is starting to be a bit too much to handle, it would be in your best interest to consider taking time off, or at least reducing your study load.

Taking time off can be the breath of fresh air you need, especially if you went head first into uni from high school and haven’t had a break from study in over 15 years. No one benefits from uni if you’re too burnt out to properly apply yourself, so listen to your body and mind, and take time off if you need it.

#4 Life Is Getting In The Way

Unfortunately, life doesn’t always operate in straight lines. If your circumstances have become particularly challenging, or life has suddenly been blown off balance, it may be worth taking time off. If you have it in you, then absolutely power through, but if you can feel whatever is going on outside of uni is taking you away from giving your best performance, it’s probably a good idea to postpone study, lest you let it impact your marks in the long term.

#5 You’re Itching To Travel

Time after high school is in this weird vacuum. In the blink of an eye you’ve gone from clueless jaffy to graduation, and you suddenly realise you haven’t ticked off any of the travel goals you set in Year 12. If you’re keen to get some travel in before you begin your venture into the real world, taking some time off uni can give you the opportunity you need. This will probably be one of the only times in your life where you can just put off all your obligations and disappear to the other side of the world, so best to take advantage while you can.

As life becomes more complicated for 20-somethings, uni doesn’t have to be a 3-year straight path anymore. Taking time off is a totally valid option, and more often than not, the better one.