[polyfractal]

I think this is entirely the wrong attitude. He isn't trying to build a million dollar startup and live on ramen for six years.

There are two types of "quitting your job". The first type quits because he wants to build a startup, or be self-employed in some capacity. The second type quits because the job is stifling and not allowing new growth. It sounds like the OP is type 2 - he wants to learn new skills.

Maybe he'll realize he loves self-employment; maybe he will pick up a new salaried job after this exercise is over. Either way, I think your approach of "Just be passionate man! Who cares about your career!" is shortsighted and dangerous. If you let yourself be consumed by mindless passions, you'll end up hopping from job to job, sucking down the cash before quitting again to throw it away on some new idea.

In short, I think the OP's plan is logical and highly likely to succeed. He will gain new skills and be able to use them for himself or for another employer. Ignore this high octane, venture backed, live on ramen nonsense - it doesn't really apply to your situation.