Micro‑retirements—moderately long career breaks focused on travel, wellness, or personal projects—have emerged as a cross‑generational movement. From Gen Z seeking early-life flexibility to Boomers “un‑retiring” for passion pursuits, the trend is reshaping expectations around work and retirement. Fueled by remote‑work tools and mental‑health awareness, micro‑retirements offer a purposeful pause for clarity, learning or rejuvenation. Investors and employers are responding with new travel‑friendly housing, wellness benefits and sabbatical policies. This article explores how intentional career pauses benefit individuals of all ages—and