I'm taking an 8-month break from my job to focus on my mental health and goals. Here's how I planned and saved for it.

• Taryn Williams is taking an eight-month career break after teaching in Alaska for three years.
• She set a savings goal of $20,000 and budgeted to spend around $1,500 a month in South America.
• After years of putting her mental health second to her career, she's prioritizing her well-being.

Taking a gap year before or after college is becoming increasingly common, and it can be very beneficial for those who have it as an option. But for many, a gap year isn't possible for financial or other reasons.