[billy_bitchtits]

Mid 40s and considering a year sabbatical to focus on some skill upgrades. I can afford the time off but am very hesitant to do it for fear of having a hard time getting back into a similarly high level role even with a skill refresh in hand.

[JohnFen]

For what it's worth, I took a year-long sabbatical in my 50s and did not suffer any noticeable ill effects to my career on my return. Your mileage may vary, of course.

[throwaway48540]

A year is barely noticeable, especially if you can fill the empty space with some learning projects.