After years of relentless legal work, the overwhelming fast-paced life in London finally made Santiago Barraza Lopez hit the brakes. Quitting his high-powered job, he took the plunge into the slower tides of a small seaside town, and while the transition was daunting, he now sees it as the best move he’s made.
Santiago never completely grasped the idea of burnout until it knocked him down. For years, he believed that if you wanted success badly enough, you wouldn’t tire of the relentless pursuit. Yet, after twelve years as a lawyer across Mexico, the US, and the UK, the pressure cooker of London’s legal world eventually took its toll. He was worn out, isolated, and desperately in need for change.
Feeling lonely, anxious, and lost, Santiago realized his life had been overtaken by work. The thought of stepping away from a high-paying position was unnerving, especially given London’s staggering expenses. However, he reached a point where financial gain couldn’t justify the mental and physical costs anymore. Embracing therapy and exercise, he aimed to heal from the toxic grip of his career and start afresh.
Remaining in London wasn’t viable. It was too expensive and too chaotic, making it impossible for Santiago to find peace. Longing for tranquility and a place to reconnect with himself, he stumbled upon Eastbourne. With its sunny trails, direct train to the city, and a cozy coffee culture, it seemed ideal. Upon moving, the initial weeks challenged him. Life in Eastbourne was slow and not in a way he was used to. Yet gradually, he embraced it. Here, life wasn’t about rushing; it was about savoring the moments, allowing things to unfold in their own time.
One of the most rewarding aspects of Eastbourne was its sense of belonging. The community, warm and welcoming, made Santiago feel like family. He dived into this camaraderie, joining a local rowing club and a volunteer group. On the professional front, Santiago found a balance that London couldn’t offer. Taking on just enough work to sustain himself, he cherished having personal time each day. This equilibrium brought contentment and health.
Now living peacefully in Eastbourne, Santiago acknowledges the impermanence of his current lifestyle. Yet, he revels in the present, feeling better both physically and mentally than ever before. While the allure of a more dynamic life might beckon in the future, for now, he’s at peace with his choice.
Santiago Barraza Lopez’s decision to leave the high-pressure world of law in London for the serene life in Eastbourne proves that sometimes, slowing down can be a path to rediscovering oneself. While the future remains uncertain, the peace and fulfillment he has found make his journey worthwhile.
Source: Yahoo
