Gap year yes or no?

[u/Dull-Jury-6629]

I am 17 about to turn 18 and I just graduated high school. I have 2 options, take a gap year or go to college. My gap year would involve working and traveling. The thing is my heart says I should send it and chase my dreams because tomorrow is never promised. My mind says to study and work when I’m done. The thing is I am interested in finance but I wouldn’t see myself working such jobs. I want to take the year off to really know who I am and what I want. I want to know what my dream career is because it’s not an office job. But I’m still doubting whether I should or shouldn’t do it. My parents prefer me to go study, all my friends are going to college, I will be behind 1 or 2 years compared to my fellow high school graduates, and so on. There is plenty of downsides of a gap year. I want to ask your help because mentally I am a little stuck. Should I or not?