Susan Lindgren's Journey from Corporate Burnout to Freedom Abroad

What's Happening?

Susan Lindgren, a former business software consultant from Santa Monica, California, left her corporate job a decade ago due to burnout and stress-related health issues. Initially planning to take a year off, Lindgren extended her travels and now resides in Da Nang, Vietnam. Her decision to leave the corporate world was influenced by health concerns, including elevated blood pressure and rapid heart rate, which were stress-related. After consulting a psychologist, Lindgren realized the need to prioritize her health over her career. She embarked on a journey that took her to various countries, including Tanzania, where she participated in a clean water project. Lindgren's travels eventually led her to Vietnam, where she found a lifestyle that promotes health and spontaneity, contrasting sharply with her previous corporate life.

Why It's Important?

Lindgren's story highlights the growing issue of burnout in corporate America, emphasizing the importance of mental and physical health over career demands. Her experience underscores the potential benefits of stepping away from high-pressure environments to explore alternative lifestyles that prioritize well-being. This narrative resonates with many individuals facing similar stress-related challenges in their professional lives, offering a perspective on the value of travel and cultural immersion as a means to achieve personal freedom and health. Lindgren's journey also reflects broader societal shifts towards valuing experiences and health over traditional career success.

What's Next?

Lindgren continues to enjoy her life in Vietnam, using it as a base for further travel. Her story may inspire others facing burnout to consider similar lifestyle changes. As remote work and digital nomadism become more prevalent, more individuals might explore living abroad as a viable option for improving their quality of life. Lindgren's experience could lead to increased interest in health-oriented travel and living arrangements, potentially influencing how people approach work-life balance.