Publication date:
May 16, 2025
Portugal Move Leads to Career Shift and Improved Work-Life Balance
A former New York resident's move to Portugal resulted in quitting her job and taking a year off, leading to a healthier relationship with work and a new perspective on life priorities.
Governance
The relocation of a New York City resident to Lisbon, Portugal in 2022 led to an unexpected career shift and personal transformation. Initially planning to continue working remotely, the individual found herself at a crossroads when faced with significant salary and benefits reductions. This situation, combined with the more relaxed pace of Portuguese culture, prompted a reevaluation of her work-life balance and overall well-being.
Leveraging her frugal habits, she strategically saved money before making the decision to quit her job and take a year-long break. This bold move, facilitated by Lisbon's lower cost of living and Portugal's more accessible healthcare system, allowed her to focus on personal growth and exploration without the constant pressure of work-related stress.
During her sabbatical, she filled her days with curiosity-driven activities, learning new skills, and immersing herself in the local culture. The absence of work-related urgency allowed for a deeper appreciation of daily life and surroundings, exemplified by spontaneous trips to nearby UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Sintra.
What began as a three-month break extended to a full year, during which she actively worked to overcome the ingrained habits of American hustle culture. This period of reflection and rest proved crucial in rekindling her creativity and reassessing her career goals.
The experience fundamentally reshaped her relationship with work. Instead of returning to a traditional 9-to-5 job, she transitioned to freelancing, allowing for greater control over her workload and creative pursuits. This shift has enabled her to prioritize her health and well-being while still engaging in meaningful work.
Now celebrating three years of living in Lisbon, with plans to apply for Portuguese citizenship, she reflects on the profound impact of her decision. The move has led to a life focused on fulfillment and inner peace, where curiosity and creativity take precedence over conventional measures of success.
This personal story highlights a growing trend of individuals seeking alternative lifestyles and work arrangements that prioritize well-being over traditional career paths. It underscores the potential benefits of taking career breaks and the impact of cultural immersion on personal and professional growth.
Leveraging her frugal habits, she strategically saved money before making the decision to quit her job and take a year-long break. This bold move, facilitated by Lisbon's lower cost of living and Portugal's more accessible healthcare system, allowed her to focus on personal growth and exploration without the constant pressure of work-related stress.
During her sabbatical, she filled her days with curiosity-driven activities, learning new skills, and immersing herself in the local culture. The absence of work-related urgency allowed for a deeper appreciation of daily life and surroundings, exemplified by spontaneous trips to nearby UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Sintra.
What began as a three-month break extended to a full year, during which she actively worked to overcome the ingrained habits of American hustle culture. This period of reflection and rest proved crucial in rekindling her creativity and reassessing her career goals.
The experience fundamentally reshaped her relationship with work. Instead of returning to a traditional 9-to-5 job, she transitioned to freelancing, allowing for greater control over her workload and creative pursuits. This shift has enabled her to prioritize her health and well-being while still engaging in meaningful work.
Now celebrating three years of living in Lisbon, with plans to apply for Portuguese citizenship, she reflects on the profound impact of her decision. The move has led to a life focused on fulfillment and inner peace, where curiosity and creativity take precedence over conventional measures of success.
This personal story highlights a growing trend of individuals seeking alternative lifestyles and work arrangements that prioritize well-being over traditional career paths. It underscores the potential benefits of taking career breaks and the impact of cultural immersion on personal and professional growth.
