Overview

• Florence Poirel left her senior program manager job in Zurich in 2024 despite no burnout, calling the role and team pleasant.
• She had saved about $1.5 million by January 2024 and in April began a planned 18‑month, cash‑funded break with her partner, Jan.
• Her partner is 17 years older, a factor she says prompted her to prioritize quality time sooner rather than wait for traditional retirement.
• Now 18 months into the pause, she spends her time swimming in Lake Zurich, traveling, and offering career coaching for women.
• Poirel says she may return to work only on terms that feel meaningful, including part‑time or selectively fulfilling roles.