I quit my high-paying job and left London for a small seaside town. I first struggled with the pace, but it was the best decision.

• After years of being a lawyer, I suddenly became burned out and lonely.
• I decided to quit my job, leave London, and move to a small town in the UK.
• At first, the change was difficult, 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're hungry enough, you'll endure; you can't possibly get tired of doing your job if you're tough enough.

Well, that was the case until I burned out.

Twelve years of studying law and working as an attorney in Mexico, the US, and the UK had taken their toll. After years of working in London in a fast-paced environment at a law firm, I reached my limit and broke down.

When I reached rock bottom, I decided to make a drastic change and move out of London.

I quit to prioritize mental health over money and glory

One day, I woke up feeling lonely, exhausted, anxious, and lost — with my life solely defined by my career.

I knew it was time to do something about it, so I left my high-power law firm. The hardest part of quitting wasn't the uncertainty of what the future held but saying goodbye to a high-paying job — especially in London, where the cost of living is high. But at a certain point, money wasn't enough to keep me there.

I started therapy and a rigorous exercise regimen. I needed to make myself stronger and healthier. It wasn't easy, but in the end, those things empowered me and gave me the clarity I needed to end the toxic relationship I had with my job and finally have a fresh start somewhere else.

I had to leave the big city

Staying in London was never an option; it was too expensive for me to sustain myself financially and too chaotic for me 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 connected to London by direct train, next to a couple of hiking trails, with more sun than the rest of the UK, and with enough coffee shops to keep me caffeinated.

I moved as soon as I could. The first weeks were rough as I learned the main difference between a big city and a small town: Life is slow— in every possible way. At first, I was desperate and annoyed, but after a couple of days, I understood there was no need to do things quickly. Things are better enjoyed when you take the time to acknowledge them.

One of the best things about small-town life 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 immerse myself fully. I joined the local rowing club and a volunteer group.

On the professional side of things, I struck a balance between my work and personal life. I took the necessary number of deals and clients to earn a living and also have a moment for myself every day. The balance is what keeps me happy and healthy.

I'm happy for the time being

I know that nothing is permanent, so I'm not sure how long I'll last in this small resort town.

I just know that I've 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 tranquil existence in Eastbourne may not endure indefinitely. I reckon that at some point, I'll need to take more action in my daily life, but for the time being, it has been the best decision I've ever made.