The Joy of Less
For many years, like countless others in the corporate world, I believed that happiness came from having more. More success, more money, more possessions, more experiences. It seemed like the natural path to fulfilment.
Then, in 2009, everything changed.
After years of pushing myself in a successful senior management career, I burned out. The role that had once given me purpose and status had gradually drained my energy and wellbeing. When I finally stepped away, I felt as though I had failed. Without the constant pressure and busyness, life felt strangely empty, and I was convinced I needed to find my way back to the world I had left behind.
Instead, life had other plans.
Moving back to my home village in the countryside gave me the opportunity to pause and reflect. Away from the relentless pace of corporate life, I began to see things differently. What I discovered was that the contentment I had been searching for during twenty-five years away from home had been there all along, including a relationship with my first boyfriend when we reunited after 31 years (now married)
I realised that the joy I thought existed in having more was actually found in needing less.
In my former life, joy seemed to come from designer clothes, expensive restaurants, prestigious work events and career progression. While these things brought temporary satisfaction, the feeling never lasted. There was always another goal to achieve, another purchase to make, another rung on the ladder to climb.
Today, my idea of joy is much simpler.
It's found in a walk through the countryside, breakfast at the local livestock market with my husband who works in agriculture, a Sunday lunch at the village pub, or spending time with family and friends. It's having the freedom to sit and read a book, appreciating what I already have, and embracing the present moment.
Don't get me wrong—I still enjoy the occasional treat. But I no longer mistake those things for lasting happiness.
The greatest lesson burnout taught me is that joy isn't hidden in the next promotion, purchase or achievement. More often than not, it's found in the everyday moments right in front of us.
Sometimes, the secret to a richer life is simply learning to want less.
(You can check out my new Joy of Less programme and Power Hour on the Events Page HERE)
