[Traubenfuchs]

Why do you think anyone would want to hire you when things get better vs people that are „more in the game“, like experienced people without a career gap?

Not asking to be mean, asking because I am afraid of that happening to me and looking for perspective.

[mixmastamyk]

Gaps are not worth worrying about unless you have < 5 years exp. At least no one has ever mentioned it. My career is long so experience is just a summary anyway. Use years only and learn how to freelance (or look like it) during lean times.