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After years of being a lawyer, I suddenly became burned out and lonely.
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I decided to quit my job, leave London and move to a small town in Britain.
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The change was difficult at first, but now I know I’m in the right place.
I never understood the concept of burnout at work. For me, the key to success in the rat race was simple: if you are hungry enough, you will persevere; If you are strong enough, it is impossible for you to get tired from your work.
That was the case until I got burned out.
Twelve years of studying law and working as a lawyer in Mexico, the US and Great Britain had taken their toll. After years of working in London in a fast-paced environment at a law firm, I reached my limits and collapsed.
When I hit rock bottom, I decided to make a drastic change and leave London.
I stopped prioritizing mental health over money and glory
One day I woke up feeling lonely, exhausted, anxious and lost, with my life defined solely by my career.
I knew it was time to do something about it, so I left my high-powered law firm. The hardest part about quitting wasn’t the uncertainty of what the future held, but saying goodbye to a well-paying job – especially in a city like London, where the cost of living is high. But at some point money wasn’t enough to keep me there.
I started therapy and a rigorous exercise regimen. I had to make myself stronger and healthier. It wasn’t easy, but ultimately those things empowered me and gave me the clarity I needed to end the toxic relationship I had with my work and finally make a fresh start somewhere else.
I had to leave the big city
Staying in London was never an option; it was too expensive to support myself financially and too chaotic to clear my head and find peace. I needed nature to reconnect with myself.
After some research I discovered the perfect place: Eastbourne. It’s a small seaside town linked to London by direct train, next to a few footpaths, with more sunshine than the rest of Britain, and with enough coffee shops to keep me caffeinated.
I moved as soon as I could. The first few weeks were tough as I learned the key difference between a big city and a small town: life is slow – in every way possible. At first I was desperate and irritated, but after a few days I understood that there was no need to do things quickly. You enjoy things better when you take the time to acknowledge them.
One of the best things about living in a small town is the sense of community. Everyone in Eastbourne knows each other and welcomes you as if you were family. Inspired by this sense of community, I decided to fully immerse myself in it. I joined the local rowing club and a volunteer group.
Professionally, I have found a balance between my work and private life. I took on the necessary number of deals and clients to earn a living and also have a moment for myself every day. It’s the balance that keeps me happy and healthy.
I’m happy for now
I know nothing is permanent, so I’m not sure how long I can last in this little resort.
I just know that I have never felt better physically, mentally and spiritually. I found peace and also some time to embrace my artistic side. I don’t miss the old days at all.
But this quiet existence in Eastbourne may not last forever. I think at some point I will have to take more action in my daily life, but for now this is the best decision I have ever made.
Read the original article on Business Insider
