DEAR HARRIETTE: I’ve been working in tech for the past five years, and I’ve saved up a decent amount of money with the intention of taking a year off to travel. It’s something I’ve dreamed about for a long time. I want to see the world, experience different cultures and give myself space to reflect on what I really want in life. Lately, though, whenever I bring up this idea to friends or family, they tell me it’s irresponsible. They worry I’ll fall behind in my career or lose my momentum in such a competitive industry. Some even say I’m being selfish for stepping away from a stable job when others are struggling to find one. I understand their concerns, but I can’t shake the feeling that I’m letting fear – or other people’s opinions – deter me from something that could be life-changing. I’m not planning to blow through all of my savings or be reckless. I’ve done the math, made a rough itinerary and even looked into ways I could freelance or volunteer during my travels. Still, the doubt is starting to creep in. What if I come back and can’t find another job? What if I regret stepping off the “traditional” path? Is it really so wrong to pause my career to explore the world, even if it’s unconventional? – The Road Less Traveled DEAR THE ROAD LESS TRAVELED: Listen to your own voice. You have planned well, saved and plotted your course. There are risks with every decision, but it sounds like you have done your best to consider the risks and weigh the odds. Be bold and take your trip. Enjoy your adventure. Journal about what you see and experience. Consider creating a blog where you talk about what you are seeing and learning. Keep your eyes open for opportunities for the future as you set out on your journey. Have faith that you will be able to take care of yourself each step of the way.

DEAR HARRIETTE: My 13-year-old daughter has recently started refusing to attend family gatherings like birthday parties or Sunday dinners at my parents’ house. She says they’re “boring, fake and a waste of time.” I understand that she’s a teenager and trying to find her own identity, but it’s really starting to hurt my parents’ feelings. They miss her and have mentioned that they feel like she doesn’t care about spending time with them anymore.

DEAR HARRIETTE: My boyfriend is deeply passionate about international humanitarian work. It’s a huge part of who he is and, honestly, one of the reasons I admire and love him so much. Recently, he told me he’s planning to move abroad to work in a conflict zone for an extended period. He sees it as an opportunity to make a real impact, and he feels called to be there.

Dear Doctors: I have had geographic tongue for almost two years. It’s unsightly and sometimes quite painful, but my ENT assures me it’s not related to infection or cancer. A prescription for nystatin oral hasn’t made a difference. Is there anything else that might help?