For one - it makes it possible to take 6 months off if you don’t like doing the work?

Without it? Good luck.

Yea I'll probably take some months off. I once took off 6 months and I was surprised how rusty I got after those 6 months.

To give you a sense of security and freedom. Once you have experienced the stress of worrying about paying rent or health insurance it’s nice to have some money.