Hey Umi,

I’ve been beating myself up about the similar thing since the end of last year. I used to be someone who responded to work emails as soon as it landed in my inbox. I made sure I researched that problem, troubleshoot to the ends of the earth for a client, and always pushed myself, even if it meant 10 pm on a Friday night in the office. Work was my life. Then something clicked, and I no longer cared about moving up the ladder. It’s quite an annoying process because you’re fighting with the feeling that none of those things matter anymore, then the bills arrive to remind you that you still need that job.  Also, you’ll be surrounded by people who would make you feel like it is a huge loss to be giving up this life.

One way to keep focused is to consistently ask yourself what  *you* truly want, every day. Ask yourself this every day, and write it down. Your voice will be the only one that matters, and the only one worth following, very soon.

I have this plan in my head which may or may not work for you, but here goes. Firstly examine all the things that you have in your life that you are still having to pay on a monthly basis. Slowly see where you can cut down and eliminate those altogether. For example – gym memberships, mobile plan (can this be reduced?), etc. Secondly, you mentioned you enjoyed mindfulness, nature and Buddhist teachings. There are many online sites offering freelance work for writers and many other jobs. Do you enjoy writing? Perhaps you could start compiling a portfolio of your work, or work on a blog to showcase some of your thoughts on mindfulness and the spiritual path? Create your online portfolio and start growing that. Now you can slowly devise your 6 – 12 month (or less) plan to quit your job and start doing something you love instead.

I think the most challenging part of this is figuring out the things you need to give up, in order to live the life you know you will love. Ironic, I know. Take one step at a time. Don’t shock yourself into big changes too soon. Make tiny changes every week/month. You’re closer than you think you are.

This isn’t much, but I hope some of it helps. Good luck!