Weighing Your Career-Break Options  Last Updated May 2, 2007
7:19 PM EDT  If you're thinking of taking a break from your job
or career, you'd be well advised to do some advance planning. As
with most things in life, you will get the most out of this
endeavor if you give it careful consideration. While some career
breaks are dictated by circumstance—such as parenthood, illness,
or layoffs—it's remarkable how few breaks are properly prepared
for. Even many high-level professionals make minimal or no plans
for what they are going to do with their time away from work,
with the result that they often feel isolated and dissatisfied
with what should be a wonderful opportunity. On the other hand,
spent wisely, a career break can actually enhance your career
prospects and give you a whole new outlook on life.  What You
Need to KnowWhat can I gain from a career break?  A career break
can give you a chance to immerse yourself in something
completely different—whether it's to improve your skills in your
current professio