I just want to say that this was actually incredibly GOOD advice, and exactly what I needed to read while searching grad cafe with a panic attack about My Future. I don't know about nilfunks, but what you said totally hit me in the right way. I graduated last year and thought I would apply to start in 2015, but decided to postpone to 2016 at the last minute. I'm working a job I hate right now and regretting not applying, but honestly . . . I'm convinced I'm going to get into a better program now, and not just because I've got more time to prepare my application. I've already gotten to know myself better outside the bizarre un-reality of academia, and I cannot tell you how valuable the freedom to experiment, read, think, and be patient has been for determining what I want to study. But you're right, it's also a painful process, because I constantly feel like I'm "losing time," even as I recognize all the important growth that's happening during this period.
Anyway, just wanted to say thanks for reminding me why I'm doing this. I hope others read this and realize that waiting, while not ALWAYS the right choice, and certainly not the most attractive, can do wonders for your perspective.