<prompt> Human: I worked in a high paying job in the industrial sector for almost half a decade terrible environment, but I gave two weeks and I have good references. I have a two-year associates degree in the top of my class and a substantial savings that Im currently investing and using to pay my minimized living expenses.Heres the problem: Im looking for work Ive finally exhausted my creative energies and just want a stable full time job again and every call back from HR Ive received has spent an inordinate amount of time grilling me about the work gap. I havent even gotten to an interview. At this point, I feel quite discriminated against - I have a good track record with a high salary history and Im not asking for anything even close to what I was making. What exactly is wrong here? Is it common for HR departments to just cast aside applicants who have work gaps? If so, what exactly am I supposed to do if no one will hire me?Im concerned that if this goes on long enough, Ill eventually be unemployable - not something Im willing to accept. Im looking into trade apprenticeships currently because it fits with my work history and interests but those are exclusive and theres no way of knowing if Ill ever get a call. In the mean time...how the hell do I get a job?  <response>: I took a year off. I hiked 2200 miles in 5 months, did volunteer work and enjoyed life. I explain I accomplished a life goal and took some time off, Ive had nothing but positive feedback from everyone. Perhaps you arent explaining your break well enough. 