<prompt> Human: Im in a situation where my current employer asked for three weeks notice instead of two, so I had to tell my new employer I wouldnt be able to start for three weeks.I was extremely worried about asking for three weeks instead of two at first, but a lot of people have told me it was extremely common that people ask for three weeks instead of two, and secretly only give two weeks notice with the intention of having a week between jobs off.My new employer was totally cool with it, and my old HR manager even said it looks good to the new company that Im helping my manager out. But I wasnt sure it was that common. EDIT: Now Im super bummed I didnt ask you guys for advice first before giving them a start date. Good thing is this new company has unlimited pto, so maybe in a few months, I can take a day or two off. And Im definitely going to plan a vacation later this year. Assistant: Youre presumably and adult. I get that you have probably had the rules for job searches shoved down your throat... no open space between jobs, etc...Thing is, you dont owe anybody anything... ever... if you have not made a commitment to them. When you were hired with your current job, you committed to working until you decide you no longer wish to work there. Well, unless you committed to something more specific. If not, then you dont owe your current employer anything you are not a slave or identured servant. As for your new employer... they know when they need you in. When they hired you, they probably had a date in mind, but until you commit to a date, once again, you dont owe them anything. Sure, if you ask for too much time they may hire someone new, but that is something you need to work out with them. If you want to take time off between jobs, ask. It cant hurt. If they say then need someone sooner, then it is your turn to decide. The key is... this is YOUR life. Dont let what you feel others may think affect how your live!Human: Thing is, you dont owe anybody anything... ever... Its very difficult for me to let someone down. That was my problem of course.  <response>: Lots of people have this feeling... but it isnt good. Just because someone wants you to do something doesnt mean you must or should. You get to decide for your life. You get to set boundaries. If you dont want to work three weeks you dont have to.I took a month off between jobs. 