Tech Workers in Their 20s Pause Careers for Pacific Sailing Adventure
In early 2025, a group of young tech professionals left their busy lives behind to sail across the Pacific Ocean. Their journey, which started in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, took them on a 50-foot sailboat to the Marquesas Islands in French Polynesia. The group, all in their mid-20s, chose this path as a form of “mini retirement,” a break from work planned early in their careers.
A Break From Tech Jobs
Lauren Sanders, Jack Elliott, and Ted Lewitt, friends from California, shared this adventure. They had earned good salaries in the technology sector but felt something was missing. Instead of waiting until later in life, they wanted to experience new challenges and growth now. Sanders, 24, said she disliked the idea of waiting until old age to seek experiences beyond her computer screen.
Their bond started through surfing during their time at the University of California Santa Cruz. Over time, they grew interested in sailing. After graduation, they bought a small boat and later a larger one fit for Pacific travel. They put much of their tech earnings into this purchase.
Challenges on the Ocean
The voyage was physically demanding. The sailboat faced large waves and rough conditions that tested their endurance. Seasickness affected some crew members, and the violent motion even damaged the boat’s microwave. Despite these difficulties, the friends found value in the experience. They believe the lessons learned on the sea differ greatly from those in an office environment.
The Idea of Mini Retirement
The concept of mini retirement involves taking a planned and temporary break from employment to pursue life experiences. This idea is gaining traction among younger generations. Sabrina Grimaldi, founder of Zillenial Zine, notes that young people today prioritize work-life balance and mental health. Mini retirements allow them to recharge and avoid burnout early in their careers.
For these sailors, the Pacific trip was more than a vacation. It was a chance to seek freedom, reconnect with nature, and build memories while they are still healthy and able. Inspired by books like “The 4-Hour Workweek” by Timothy Ferriss, they recognized the value of taking time now, rather than postponing life’s adventures.
A New Approach to Work and Life
Their story reflects a shift in attitudes toward work among younger adults. Instead of focusing solely on career advancement and income, many are looking to create a balanced life that includes meaningful experiences. Taking a break from work, even a long one, can offer fresh perspective and renewed energy for future challenges.
As these friends sailed toward distant islands, they left behind deadlines and meetings to embrace the unpredictability of the sea. Their mini retirement represents a growing movement to make space for life’s richness amid busy professional lives.
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