Recently, I met with a new client who expressed a sentiment I often hear: “I’m working too much.” “I’m exhausted.” ”This doesn’t feel like the life I’m supposed to be living.” ”It feels like modern-day slavery, except I’ve put myself here.”
Sound familiar? If so, keep reading. If not, delete this email and move on with your day.
This client also shared an experience that I can personally relate to—visiting Europe (or maybe a tropical island) and observing how other cultures approach work. For instance, years ago in Paris, I watched locals spend their days reading, sipping coffee, admiring architecture, and people-watching. They were living life first and working second.
Most of us are familiar with the term “island time,” used when someone doesn’t adhere to our more American sense of punctuality. Oftentimes, we return from our travels thinking, ‘Those folks are doing it right. I could use a little more island time in my life.’
Some of us, inspired by this “life first, career second” approach, return home and make changes to deprioritize our careers and reprioritize health, relationships, and fun.
However, most of us quickly fall back into the American habit of working 24/7, constantly stressed about money and time, and justifying that behavior because we think our kids need more stuff or because our neighbors are out there “killing it.”
If you relate to my clients’ feelings, here are some steps to adopt a more European (or tropical) lifestyle:
- Reduce your monthly expenses. You’ve likely increased your spending to match your income. Cut back—you 100% don’t need all that shit.
- Set boundaries. Start with your phone and email habits. Your company doesn’t pay you for 24/7 availability, so stop offering your services after hours. That’s what volunteers do.
- Journal about your ideal lifestyle. Envision having abundant time, stronger connections with loved ones, and a simpler daily routine.
- Seek inspiration. The next time you travel, observe how people in other countries live. In Europe, you might notice more pedestrians, less traffic, and people enjoying museums, music, and daily market visits for fresh produce. Does this lifestyle appeal to you? Does it make you a bit envious?
- Reflect honestly on recent years. Has working so hard truly been worth it? Did the paycheck justify your time investment? Would you trade some income for more free time, family time, or less stress at this point in your life?
If your current work life doesn’t feel like a good trade-off, explore alternative ways to earn a living that better suits your life goals. You don’t have to commit to quitting right away, but researching other lifestyles cost you nothing!
You are precious and worthy and deserve a life of your own making. From first-hand experience, I know it’s easy to fall into a rut and get stuck there. But look around! People in other countries and cultures live in a way that may suit you better than you’re living now!
If you want some guidance getting there, book some time with me, and we’ll see if I can’t help you get there.