Wow, this is getting a lot more views than I'm used to. Thank you for sharing your stories and the kind messages. I've made a video responding to you all (including the hate): ruclips.net/video/3-ELuiCGO8U/видео.htmlsi=5-hl5dmDd7xDn2zu I also wanted to acknowledge the help my parents gave me to make this 'mini-retirement' happen, in this video: How Much Money Did My Parents Give Me to Travel For 1 Whole Year? ruclips.net/video/9foIGEd8m4k/видео.htmlsi=zgs_uCQXDjfh1yiD It's somewhat easier for me to see your comments on more recent videos because they don't get lost in the sea of comments here! Or if you want to contact me directly send a message on instagram! @doctorchrisg May you have the courage to design the life you deserve 💙
I was a brain surgeon in a most prestigious hospital in London for 27 years, was on call regularly, helped people as much as I can, did continual study and self improvement, had the cars, houses, but no time! I threw all that away and now I have an old RV and travelling thee US as a hippy. Source: Trust me bro.
I was an RN for 30 years and walked away from a well paying job, but the last 5 years were miserable. i quit my job with no plans. I moved across the country and lived in a van for several months. I found a small, rural town to move to. I gave my license up and have never been happier. I live in a pretty poor area and am now considered low income, but have never been happier. I am doing what I want.
I knew someone who became a general practitioner MD. He hated it even though he opened his own clinic, worked his own hours and made good money. All his life he simply wanted the title of "doctor" in front of his name. He wasn't married and didn't even have a big house. One day he took a vacation in SE Asia wanting to get away from western society. He stayed for almost six months learning the culinary arts of Thai, Cantonese and Vietnamese dishes and eventually switched to being a chef and catering wherever he was needed in SE Asia. I last heard he lives in the villages in Burma and gives free medical check ups to the poor while living his life as a chef in the city. Maybe that was his purpose. Life is funny that way sometimes I guess
I was a highly successful lawyer making tons of money but I wasn’t happy and constantly stressed. Early retired in Vietnam a lot more poor but a lot more happy!!!!
I never went to college. I worked 2 jobs since I was 18. I saved, saved, saved and saved and also lived, lived, lived. I've always lived extremely simple, helping animals, drinking coffee, reading books, doing some research and exploring, and doing a lot of hiking. At 32, I quit normal working- I have saved enough to go to something even less stressful and go live life. I've been doing this for 18 years. I don't have the material things that seem to be required to prove one is successful. Having a backpack, a Jeep and a dog is not seen as successful, at least in the US. I work seasonal jobs to fund my life, so I'm not touching my savings. I wish you peace and happiness.
After 14 years of medicine, I’m also quitting to take a career break! I work in palliative care and I have learnt, life is too short and “next time” may never come around.
Me too! 17 years as a surgery and pain management PA I’m taking a year break starting May 2025 to spend time with my young growing kids. Stoked!! Good luck everyone!
Dude, I feel this so deeply. I can’t say I ever reached the level of a doctor, but I found myself caught in the rat race in my late twenties. I was making good money, but I hated my life. Weekends weren’t a relief-they were tainted by the stress of the week before. It was like brackish water mixing with the clear, the sadness and heaviness following me everywhere. I had no choice but to quit. I bought a one-way ticket to South America, planning to stay a month, but a month turned into six, and six turned into a year. Along the way, I met incredible people, and as I’d tell them, traveling with no itinerary is, in my opinion, the purest way to experience what it means to be human. I’d wake up, ask myself what I wanted to do, and just do it. Too tired to surf? No problem. Spend the day lounging. A friend wanted to hike to a waterfall? Absolutely, I’m in. There was this beautiful inverse relationship between time spent traveling and the sadness in my heart. As one increased, the other diminished. I thought I’d live like that forever, but eventually, a new kind of loneliness crept in. It wasn’t the same kind of sadness I had before, but it was still there, percolating and manifesting as selfishness. As a traveler from a developed country, with money that stretched farther than I ever thought possible, I started to take my privilege for granted. That realization brought me home with a desire to help people. For me, healthcare felt like the best way to make an intimate and meaningful connection with others. It’s one of the most visceral ways to truly *provide* for someone. But, as you know too well, every path has its own bog to trudge through. I’m back in school now, but I already see overworked, disillusioned professionals, and I selfishly fear for myself-that I’ll become one of them, that I’ll simply exchange one source of unhappiness for another. Still, I think life needs a little pain, a little uncertainty, and constant work-it’s what Jonah Hill’s movie *Stutz* talks about. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s striving for balance, knowing full well it may never be achieved. I’m grateful to be human, that this bundle of cells I call “me” was lucky enough to exist at all. I have regrets-plenty of them. I regret not seeking a partner sooner, not getting therapy earlier, and putting my younger self through so much unnecessary agony. I wish I could go back and apologize to him. But I’m also thankful for everything I’ve experienced. Your video brought tears to my eyes, reminding me of the sweet smell of humid jungle air, the constant symphony of animals, and the welcoming smiles of locals. I loved Colombia. I miss Minca. I know true balance might never be obtained, but I hope to get close. I’m so happy for you-for your love, your commitment to helping others even as you travel, and for prioritizing yourself along the way. Keep going.
Kudos! For over 5 years, I’ve been teaching teenagers in the Philippines how to craft high-quality dentures for their elders for less than $10. This simple skill allows the elderly to eat properly, smile with confidence, and live a more fulfilling life. When you take capitalism out of the equation, life starts to make a lot more sense.
@@katriannanondualityThank you! If you're genuinely interested and based in the USA, you'll soon have the opportunity to get involved. I'm currently building a community that teaches how to create most dental appliances yourself at a fraction of the cost, without compromising on quality or aesthetics. There are nearly 70 million people in the US without dental insurance, and many are left to deal with their dental issues alone-this initiative aims to change that.
8 years ago, when I turned 60, I decided to leave a permanent, well paying professional position and dive into a very different life. This life was extremely stressful, looking at my colleagues, I realised I did not want to be living like this any longer. I became a tour guide and just this year, I have decided that after 8 years of constant travel (and loving it) I am going to do something different again. I am not sure what will be but I am positive and optimistic about my future. It is never ever too late to do what this young man says. My father worked hard all his life, was lucky to retire at an earlier age and died within 1 year of feeling he was finally free to live the way he wanted to. Good on you Dr Chris! My sister left medicine after almost 30 years and is doing something that makes her much happier.
I was a middle school teacher for 30 years -never traveled and worked my butt off. I wanted to be a musician but I knew I had to eat so I fast tracked 30 years of my life so I could earn a monthly paycheck each month after I retired. Now at 60 years old -I am ready to get started on my music career. I’m elated! Can’t wait to put out my first Album and start playing at clubs
I'm a doctor in South Korea. I'm also having a "mini retirement" after working as a GP for four years. I sometimes feel vulnerable because I have nowhere to go every day and I have to spend my savings. But at the same time, I have an internal dialogue with myself about what I really like and what I love. Being a doctor is everyone's dream in South Korea, so I think I unconsciously made this decision to conform to that atmosphere. I thought being a doctor was a magic prescription for happiness ever after, but it wasn’t at all. I'm glad to have this time to reflect on myself. It was amazing to hear from other doctors who have lived a life like mine. Thanks for making this video!
I'm glad you are taking a well deserved mini-retirement. And thank you for leaving this comment because it reminds me that there are many people in the world who feel the same way I do.
You won't regret your decision. I'm a lawyer in Canada who is taking time off and am enjoying it so much I may not return. To be a doctor in S. Korea is an incredible feat. You had to be the best of the best at everything. Maybe take some time to envision your ideal life. Expose yourself to new things. Travel. Inexpensive new hobbies can broaden your mind and make you whole. Congrats on the adventure!
I was a nurse for 20 years, then moved to Ecuador & restored a historical house which I made into a small hotel with a coffee shop. Now I’m still here 10+ years later as the country is collapsing. I sold the house due to the economy & am free again for the next dream. Not sure what that is but I’m exploring to find out. I don’t want to enter the rat race again. I wish I never was a nurse & I didn’t get locked in for 20 years, but I can’t see any other way I could’ve bought my freedom & lived so fully compared to most people. I’ve also traveled extensively.
I am an optometrist and took a sabbatical from 2020- 2023. It was the happiest time of my life in recent times, traveled around Mexico and the Caribbean. Then got bored too and decided to work again, but with a different mindset. I have come to the conclusion, that for me, retirement is overated, just find a purpose, and something you are passionate about, Ikigai like the Japanese call it We all need the breaks to reset, and re-purpose
I have a degree in physiotherapy but I worked as a live-in nanny for this lovely family for 7 years until the kids pretty much able to do things on their own and no longer needed my service. I enjoyed that job very much even if some of my physiotherapy colleagues looks me down. With my little saving from that job, I was able to purchased a small plot in a tiny island in southeast asia for less than 5k $ and built a simple cabin with 2 rental native huts for the total cost of 10k$. I go fishing whenever I want and have a little garden. These are the things that makes me happy now. Just do things that makes you happy. Life is all about the journey because our destination is final.
I was a librarian for 27 years, a single mum. I resigned from my permanent pensionable job in 2017 to become a full time artist. My daughter was 10 years old and I had a mortgage. Things worked out and I have never regretted it for a day. I have recently come through breast cancer treatment thankfully, but I realise that a life beyond‘retirement’ is not guaranteed to any of us. So live your life as best you can. You really do have the key! Enjoyed listening to your story. Keep lit!
Just to say ,I losty job through Bankruptcy,lost my shares and all privileged paid benefits ,lost my health after ,however the losses were so vast I simply could not believe ,yes it is difficult .I took time off to go to a more natural lifestyle ,discovering nature was my healing gift .I encourage you to pursue natural medicine ,just do it on your own without degrees trust me the interest in helping people with medicine natures way ,is the best any companies would love to help you I know conventional medicine is becoming not trustworthy.what saved me was a more naturalistic self education .I taught myself .Don't get emotional ,you will get there on your destiny,we know all of what you are saying ,look for the healing through gifts you don't pay for ,Our earthly experience is worth more than a certificate Love the background in your video ,wishes for you is you get through the memories .Half the battle .Love and strength to you .
Mini-retirements! Never thought of it that way but it is what I did. Will be 80 next year. Have had a number of careers. When I began to resent what I was doing I did something else. Have started and run 4 different companies. Graphics, real estate, finance and the last - a restaurant. Worked hard but enjoyed it. Fully retired in 2010. Happy and healthy with no regrets! Do it!
Dr. Chris, you’re not dropping out or less doctor than anybody. I admire your decision. I was born with right brain which is artistic brain, but went into medical school and was miserable as a doctor. When I retired after 50 years of practice, “Where’s my youth gone by?” Can’t find anywhere but regret.
I moved to another country, and have been studying and working continuously for 21 years. Out of the blue, a cancer diagnosis has been like a wake-up about life. My treatment finished a couple of weeks ago. Grateful and thinking much more about happiness, friends, and family.
Gap years every 3 to 5 years…stay young, learn languages, live in the world, not in a box for decades, thank you for sharing, life is meant to be enjoyed, not daily stress
But as a medical doctor, you could explore and share medical remedies and treatments from all over the world to help others. Being a youtuber for the sake of travel makes it all about you, and not others. What about the work of Medecins sans frontieres and similar organizations?. Ur so lucky to have the medical degree: use it in a way that makes you happy or fulfilled while informing and helping others. I trained English teachers in other countries and though I traveled extensively, it was the work that was most satisfying. Good luck! 😊
I'm currently living in my campervan after stepping away from teaching (for a 3rd time in 29 years) I've rented out my small house and simply plan to stay healthy and enjoy doing the things I love (walking, cycling, running and travel). No grand plan, just following my intuition and ignoring the gremlins that pop up in my head! I recommend the simple life, away from all the nonsense and noise. Great video. Thanks.
I am a gastroenterologist in India in final year of my medical gastroenterology residency . I’ll be finishing in April next year. I have felt miserable and lost doing what I am doing. Miserable to the extent where I wish I would just stop living. You have given me hope. ❤ thank you so much for existing.
Hope you are doing much better now. Have faith things will be better for you. Take a break as soon as you can. All those years of studying and achieving probably drained you.
I got into an Uber and asked if the well dressed, handsome 70yr old driver if he got a Mercedes from working Uber. He said he was sold the story as a child that being a doctor or lawyer was the ultimate. He said being a lawyer was the pits. He missed out on his family, missed so many family holidays because cases extended way beyond the timeframe expected. He was often working till 2-3am most nights. He was on his third marriage and feels that his job ruined his life. He started driving Uber and is enjoying his job for the first time in his life. I couldn’t cried & still feel like crying every time I think of this man.
What you´ve done is awesome and immensely fulfilling. I hope everyone at least tries once in their life. I am on the same path and recently started my new life in Brazil, leaving Europe, once again. It could seem impossible to do, some of us are privileged as you said, however, we all have the key to get out of this mental prison cell which is having the same/similar life that our parents had. Congrats Chris!
I was at a daycare 26 years and when I retired it was the best thing I did. Have a land and love nature birds and gardens and camping. Thats life. We are just here for a little while so do what feels right. Cheers. Enjoy life.
Did something similar nearly 20 years ago. Now in my 50s, and feel I need to do it again, as worked harder than ever during lockdown, and haven't stopped. In fact barely noticed we are out of it! Worked as a Covid19 Support Worker (in an NHS hospital) during the lockdown, and then went back to being a qualified teacher afterwards, plus keeping my business ticking over. I'm burnt out!
From the day we’re born in order to maintain the infrastructure of civilisation, we go through so many stages. Of being processed and conditioned, but it’s unnatural way of living. We were never meant to live like this. We are incredible creatures, and we have an amazing ability to adapt to situations in order to survive, but there are breaking point. We are starting to see a rebellion against our conditioning.
I’m now 63, at 18 I detached a ligament in my left knee and almost the interior ligament. I was thinking to go to New York and become a bike messenger that’s all I knew at the time. I went into a deep depression if you want to call it that - it was trauma for sure. Which lasted about 5 years saw me thru under grad school. By then I had fully closed my book on life. I took a meanly job which lasted 20 years till I had the courage to quit. My oldest brother is of the generation who’s belief was education would save the world. They were right but things changed and that didn’t workout. I’m glad to see your generation trekking what’s left of their pathway. Go enjoy yourself and do some good along the way.
What a fabulous personal testimony. You've definitely done the right thing. It's also surprising how many people are in full agreement with all you've just spoken about. I have only come across this upload this evening and I'm looking forward to watching further uploads on your channel.
I'm 53 and I've taken 3 mini retirements in my life so far -[I'm ready for the next one tbh!!] I'm so glad it's now a "thing" - makes me look a bit less crazy!
It's awesome you are traveling. I am peruvian and worked in Silicon Valley, it's a good working experience. But it's not for me. Hope you enjoy and meet interesting cultures and people. You never stop learning until death.
Quit last year and spent 4 months in South East Asia. I totally agree about your mini retirement theory. I plan to do it again. Suddenly materialism is not important any more and i value friendships, meeting new people and exploring the world. My appetite to climb the corporate career ladder just doesnt exist anymore. Its more about happiness for me.
I watched this and didn't really think I had something I valued or that I wanted to do. But something came to me I really should look for my other half. I've never been as happy as I've been spending time with someone I deeply care about.
Ive served in the military, worked fishing in Alaska, worked on 300ft cell phone towers, and now drive freight trains. Ive been to all 50 states and 48 countries across 6 continents by myself and with my own money. Ive been shamed for it because i still dont have a degree, no house, no wife/kids. Called peter pan, lazy, a bum, and a child. Im only 30.
I think what you have done is incredible and somehow the thought crossed my mind that people who say those things about you might be very jealous. I am 45 and have not done as much as you but still a lot of things which seem crazy to my quite conservative family and for a while I came back and didn't fit in in my country. It is time to be me again 🌞 Thank you for your example and how it sounds contentment 🌞
You’re on the right path, me and my partner have taken many mini retirements in our 40years together . We spent the first 5 years of our daughter’s life , just being a new family, when she started school we went back to work. Now at nearly 60 , just about to retire again from corporate life.However neither of us want to stop working , just the type of work , more fulfilling work, rather than needing high pay. There are times you need to knuckle down , but this cannot be all the time.
Exactly. We are at service for humanity. If doctors don't choose their career based on a godly will be the ones that fill unfulfilled, unhappy and will drop out. If you see this job as an opportunity to serve Christ, burn out does not exist 🙏👩⚕️🧑⚕️
Hey Chris, I'm a psychiatrist in NZ. I see quite a few burnout nurses, doctors, lawyers, and other professionals, in my clinic. Good on you for prioritising your mental health. It's much more important to be a happy and balanced doctor. The old school thinking believes that doctors ought to be martyrs but that thinking often leads to physician suicide. If this carries on, we won't have any more doctors to go around! Take care, and pop over the Tasman for a visit!
I think the doctors of the past just drowned their stress and anxiety with various forms of alcohol, drugs, and other vices. When a more health cautious generation like ours hit that point, it becomes a different story like Dr. Chris is having here. As someone who moved from the Philippines to Canada and now back, I completely relate with the idea of mini-retirements and how life is so much more fulfilling here. Life just springs anywhere year-round. Random cat living in your yard, dragonflies, butterflies, ants, snails, worms, bees, etc. just random signs of life 12 months of the year. The being happy 50% of the time also goes in line with the Roman's Golden Rule. Everything in moderation...even happiness. PS. I hate winter.
30 years as a pharmacist. Quit the profession in 2022 at 52. Moved to another country, learning a new language and adapting to a new culture. Best. Decision. Ever. Jump and the net will appear !
@ Yes. You are correct. I was and am fortunate to have had a full career. It has allowed me to relax at this point in my life. But there is a trade of, in my opinion, in the form or work related stress and the possibility of associated illness that accompanies it. I don’t believe there is a right or wrong path. Unfortunately most of us need money to live in this world. I traded “living” for work when I was younger. But with a plan and a consistent job it has allowed me to trade work for a life while I still have some years to enjoy it.
I live in the UK and caught up in a similar corporate job trap but I decided to take a break to figure out what I want in my life and how it should ideally be as per my dreams and desires ✨✨ So grateful to hear each word of yours and one of the best videos I have come across on RUclips,goes straight to our hearts❤❤❤ And yes you reminded me of my RUclips channel which I was so passionate about about to share important things during Covid and UK travels in 2020😔Completely worked up wid my job that couldnt create content even though its love of my life😔Thank you for inspiring us💐💐
You're on spot when you said that you were lucky to be privileged. Not all of us can afford to have "mini holidays/retirement", especially for those people who live in a third-world country like I am.
The golden handcuffs. Thats how you become a prisioner. You got to be willing to unlock the handcuffs and risk it for the live you want and deserve. No money is worth if you arent happy.
Work has become almost like a religion with everyone reciting the same mantras about 'waterfall versus agile' or 'process improvement' from the vocabulary of LinkedIn. I've seen people who do that for 30 years turn into robots, no sign of life at all it's scary
Great to hear your inspiring story, Chris. Indeed I found a lot of similarities with my life and what I have changed. I reframed things to make a job I disliked work for me to provide a pathway for composition - what I love ❤ Cheers and good luck 😊
😭😭😭. I am literally sobbing from this. I feel like i am the person you were mentioning. And why is it that whenever i feel miserable, videos like this of yours always gets uploaded and notified to me?! huhu! I am thankful though for the enlightenment you give. I think i am imprisoned mentally...i just dont know how to get out. God please help me! PS: I think the Philippines changed you more than any other. Your exposure to how life is so difficult in the other side of the world opened your eyes. I am glad you had that opportunity. Good for you.
Hey James I appreciate you watching my videos and I'm glad they help you in some way. I agree the Philippines had a huge affect on me and I'm grateful for it. I genuinely and sincerely hope you get everything you want out of your life. You seem like a person who deserves it :)
Hey Chris! This is the first time I see your channel! Am a dr too .. Hated Med school .. Decided to do ecommerce.. after graduation I received aLOT of blame and questions from everyone.. I went to therapy and just realized I don't have to BE a doctor just because I studied it ... Freeing ourselves from titles and embracing life and being happy and fulfilled❤ is what's most important! Seeing your video definitely resonates A LOT ❤ Thank you for having the courage to do it I wish u well mate .. You're on the right track
This is so inspiring. Many thanks for sharing about mini retirement. In a country where have less privilege, it's just a dream. Thank you that we all have our own key and we have to realize ourselves where we are and what we want to do out of our life. Because of watching your videos, I got more energy to find the purpose of my life. Thank you so much Chris. Come visit Myanmar once when the things are getting better here and wish to see you in person which becomes my bucket list. You are so real and I love the way of your expression of truth. Totally worth watching and this 19:58 mins are so precious to me. Many many thanks to you again and again. Cheers, Lin Lin. I will try to apply 50% rule.
I'm beginning my journey into postgraduate study in Australia. I've been doing a lot of thinking, asking myself questions like "am I in the right place?" Or, "do I really want to do this?" One thing that young people have right now is the sheer amount of wisdom that can be found on the internet (if they know where to look). Great video mate! Some awesome pieces of advice! 🙏
I've worked in the NHS for 25 years in a non-clinical role. It's super stressful and full of toxic managers. I'm 61 and just trying to stick it out for 2 more years, but your video does make me think again...
@@mamacitasalsera - No, I did not stay in nursing, but some parts of it I loved, some wards .. others were traumatic ! and I was shocked at the drugs patients were on. short-staffed too a lot of the time !
I am a nurse done it for 15 years I'm a mum had kids in twenties, from all my eras im right bending what your sharing with a mindset like that keep protecting your energy and you'll be happy I wish ylu happiness 😊
Dude, you are right. As a support I have totally let this 23 minutes commercial play without escaping in your video and hopefully will help you to continue making inspiring videos. Cheers! (Btw, I also works in NHS and I feel your pain)
As someone who has retired from being a solicitor in my late forties I admire your level of awareness at a young age. I only stopped when my work made me ill.
I am 80 and thought of all the stressed I was for so many years. I never thought of taking a mini retirement. What a wonderful idea. Now I can no longer take holidays because of health issues. I am not unhappy having done a lot of travelling and living all over New Zealand.
I love this. I’m off work due to ill health. The irony is I’ve not been able to get back into the workforce no matter how hard I try. Watching your video makes me understand that maybe it’s a blessing, and I should enjoy this time where I’m creatively free.
I shut down my profitable business eight years ago because it was draining my energy, and it’s the best decision I’ve ever made. Now, I have a lower income, but 100% of my time is mine to do what I want. I live in a beach destination-literally a paradise-and I’ll never go back to working as hard as I did before.
It is very difficult to maintain a healthy life style working shifts. When I discuss this with people I know they always ask about money.Never asking are you sleeping enough, eating on a sched. , working out, have time for your interests. Thank you for making all these points in your video.
Similarly, I dropped my life as I knew it, at age of 40 , being a singly childless woman, and started a new one in another country, and boy was that a drastic much needed leap, but it all worked out for best. It was 25 years ago. God is good. Much love.
I appreciate you watching and commenting. The experience you provided us in the Philippines had a huge impact on me, I hope you realise you're doing an amazing thing. Take care
I'm watching for the first time, and just subscribed because there's a lot going on here. Just the right pace. Not at all egotistical. Imagine being so good at self analysis at such a young age.
I love your video Dr Chris. I never had a big career and only now in my late 40s am I glad of it. Means I’m more flexible. I don’t travel as much as you - I prefer to camp locally and be in nature. It’s cheap and feeds the soul just as much as international travel for me. I’ve worked and had breaks to bring up children. I’ve had a good full life and very lucky to have been born in NZ to a life of privilege. I have a small list of things I’d like to do which require not working or mini breaks from work. At the moment I’m working fulltime and soon ready to take a break and try something different. When I look back the things that matter are the people I’ve met and connected with, workmates, friends and family, being close to nature and making large decisions that are life changing. The large decisions make you realize what power you have to completely change your life in a week or a year. Very powerful. I think that’s what you are experiencing - make a large decision and jump off the cliff. Very freeing and hope you experience many more such experiences!
i worked 25 years as a hairdresser and 5 years truck driving in the mines . I’ve paid off my house . I’m thinking of selling up and just doing a couple of days in dissabikity work or just taking a year off . I had two years of depression and burnout …
Thank you for sharing,I resonated with your story. I’m also burnt out from my job and am waiting til the end of this winter then permanently quitting the rat race forever. Nice to hear others are going through the same. 🙏
I feel you on this so much. I spent my entire adult life after graduating 22 years in the Air Force and retired from that. Through 9-11 & countless other things wrecked my body beyond belief. Now in my early 40's I have a 2 lvl spinal fusion, herniations in neck, multiple shoulder surgeries, knee surgery, other abdominal surgery. At 40 it hurts to move sometimes, and I get stiff quickly. After retiring from the Air Force, I became a well-paid manager at a large company but still not satisfied, every day is more grind, more stress. I see so many employees work their whole life just to keel over before they retire, get cancer diagnosis, or die within a few years of retiring. My own father got a diagnosis shortly after retiring. I just can’t see myself being another one. That would be so crushing to work your whole life & not enjoy the rewards of your efforts. I’ve shifted to minimalism over the past few years, my girl and I are planning to retire in 3 years once my son graduates and live on a sailboat cruising the world before we can’t.
My childhood friends' parents did this, they ran the family hotel, sold it to a property developer, as soon as their kids left home, bought a yacht, and sailed the world. Absolutely no idea what happened to them, as it was pre-Internet, so no 'evidence'. But I'm sure they were happy.
This is of the most inspiring videos I have ever watched on YT so thank you. Really makes me think about what more I want from life. I hope you get a million views and I hope you get the future you dream of.
I am an MD too, 6 years in a big hospital, 4 years on a remote island, 1 year in an evacuation company. I quitted my job last year n started my own restaurant. Life is easy, my mind is clear
I’ve made similar choices for my life. I’m “front loading” my life. I don’t want to save, save and save for a time that might never come. I want to do all I can while I can, while I’m able to be active. I often feel societal pressure to live a more traditional life but lately that pressure just makes me more grateful for the choices I’ve made. I feel very lucky and i also realize it is an enormous privilege to have these choices in life. It’s refreshing to see someone else doing the same. I may not have the amount of money in my savings as many people do but my life bank is so full. I’m very happy and in awe of the beautiful things around me and life in general every single day.
"Physician heal theyself". You can't really take care of others unless you take care of yourself. It took me longer to figure out what I'm glad you realized much sooner. Good luck Dr. G, from the ED and Dr. S:)
I am so grateful for this! I've let go of my job and sold everything, even my house, to live a more fulfilling life. See the world. Thank you for showing me I'm not the only one. ❤
I was asked that question about the resume gap. I ended up getting the job. The guy who hired me who then became my boss, ended up taking a 6 month sabbatical himself saying I inspired him!!
What a sad yet beautiful story, the sadness being trapped on the merry go round of life, the beauty, putting the brakes on the merry go around and seeking a direction,and finding your happiness. here is another quote for your list,, Be happy with what you have and are, be generous with both, and you won’t have to hunt for happiness.” - William E. Gladstone stay strong stay happy, and continue to share your knowledge of life.
What an inspiring video. Thank you Chris 🙏 For the last couple of years I have secretly been planning to do the same as you have done. Quitting the stressful job as a product manager to take some time off and travel the world. I have even bought a world map and put pins on the places I want to visit. I am 47 now and have enough money to do this but I have my dear old dog (11½ years old) and she's not fit to travel. So my plan is to work till she "moves on" 🥀 which will be a tough time since she's my "child" 😢 But as you say, do it while you can, because the stress has taken its toll. I have felt burnt out the past year and 2½ months ago I was diagnosed with Mdds (Mal de Debargement Syndrome). I see it as a final sign that I have to change my life now! So now I am called in sick and planning the next steps. Mdds has made it a bit difficult though but not impossible 🤔
Very well said, Dr. Chris. We have something in common, being a risk taker. Thanks for mentioning my country, the Philippines. I am now retired as a flight attendant, and just like you, I have a passion for traveling and helping people. Continue your journey with your partner. You'll find more wisdom along the way. You're still young, and I wish you more beautiful adventures and continue to live your best life. I am glad to have crossed your channel. I am now your fan.
Planning to take about a year off starting this Jan. This will be the first time I’ve done this, am a bit nervous, but absolutely looking forward to it.
Beautiful story my friend. I've heard such similar stories from people like yourself in high-stress, demanding positions (doctors, lawyers, etc.) -- your life and your happiness are worth far more than money! God bless you and your fiancé on your journey. Cheers!!
I am a retired happy doctor from OZ. Your degree of comfort with uncertainty, and love of risk, make you ideally suited for rural and remote medicine. Talk to ACRRM…
He has ADHD. Shifting and loss of interest for activities, longing for freedom and adventure. Such a loss to spend 6 years in medschool and then drop out. People should be better adviced and screened prior to making such a step. Inrolling in medschool should be only for the die-hards and trully motivated.
Thanks Chris,I so enjoyed this video.Felt like a little girl whose mother is telling her a night time story.You have a natural talent.I will travel the world through your lense.🌸
I followed the social plan, married and had children, feel trapped even at 64 as MD, have not escaped but dream it every day. I know that feeling you speak of but now I feel too old. Regrets.
I'm also a general practitioner who graduated last year. Resigned from my job after 1.5 years. I'm losing the passion to take care for people while being severely underwaged with toxic environment. Transitioning to business at the moment. I just couldn't imagine myself having a life like my consultants (dealing with toxic colleagues, working your whole life serving people, endless examinations, less and lesser time for pursuing your passion, etc.). The profession really demands genuin passion and sacrifice.
Chris, at 13:00 your statement about preventative measures stood out to me. I’m a software engineer in my 30s who’s able to do the same as you. I had some health issues and had to go deep into this field. What helped me to see things better is cross disciplinary approach. Biochemistry is just barely scratching the surface. Psychology pushes it a bit further. But what really helped me is physics. More specifically photobiology and planetary sciences. Mix that with some of the spirituality work and you’ll see how many more variables are included in holistic health.
Thanks for sharing. I’ve been as far as I wanted to go in academic medicine…department chief. No one understood why I would resign and step aside from the prestige and money, but I had been having internal dialogue and knew I needed a mini retirement. I took 9 months off, then returned to a similar position at another hospital. I am now 7 months in my second mini retirement. The time away has given me more clarity. At this point I recognize how much I enjoy teaching people how to prevent diseases in the first place, and I love not having a set work schedule. I wish everyone was in the position to be able to take time away to seek clarity, and have the opportunity to reinvent and focus on what they enjoy.
Thanks for sharing your story! I'm glad the time off gave you the clarity you needed. I find it reassuring to hear doctors from all over the world having a similar experience. Good luck on your journey!
50 % rule makes sense! I have been teaching for 30 yrs and will be retiring at the end of this school year. Hope to travel more and be happy and stress free. Looking forward to enjoying my mornings without being rushed all the time...
These comments gave me the biggest relief ever Graduated from Medicine in 2021 in dubai Was in my first year of Residency and hated every single moment of it Moved to Istanbul in 2022 Been living my best life I wasn't cut to be a doctor, i did well academically I just didn't see appeal nor could i handle the responsibility of it
Wow, what a video! I am an international student who is studying to become a CRNA in the US, I just chose nursing because I cannot afford to study medicine in the states, and I chose the US because this is the only country I can get a visa to. I am working in two different jobs to pay for all my tuitions. It’s too stressful to study, get good grades and work in two jobs. This is particularly difficult for me as I already have a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in Linguistics and Literature from my country (Turkmenistan). As you said, I feel like I’m in my own mental prison, always trying to find happiness even in the smallest thing, full of worries about my future and finances. This sadly stems from the fact that I’m from an undeveloped country, which makes everything even more challenging for me. I really liked this video, especially the part about mini retirements to reflect on your life, and find what you truly want in your life. I hope that you find what you really want, become a dad, and be happy! Thank you for your video!!!!
Being immigrant is being brave in its own, use food bank more, second hand clothes, share books for studies if possible…look around how everyone saves, maybe scholarships etc. If others have done it , you can do it too.
Hey Chris, I am listening to your words in a coffee shop, thinking about life. I am a software engineer in Singapore, earning a salary better than average, and having some work-life balance. However, I am still eager for freedom and full control of my own life. At the age of 30 this year, I decided to start my side hustle, an email newsletter that aims to popularize AI to non-technical people and investors. I do not have a lot of subscribers for now, but I do enjoy writing and putting my own thoughts into words. I feel the power and genuinity of your voice, and subscribed to your channel. Looking forward to see more in the future. Cheers.
![BLACK BAG - Official Trailer [HD] - Only in Theaters March 14](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Du0Xp8WX_7I/mqdefault.jpg)
Wow, this is getting a lot more views than I'm used to. Thank you for sharing your stories and the kind messages.
I've made a video responding to you all (including the hate):
ruclips.net/video/3-ELuiCGO8U/видео.htmlsi=5-hl5dmDd7xDn2zu
I also wanted to acknowledge the help my parents gave me to make this 'mini-retirement' happen, in this video: How Much Money Did My Parents Give Me to Travel For 1 Whole Year?
ruclips.net/video/9foIGEd8m4k/видео.htmlsi=zgs_uCQXDjfh1yiD
It's somewhat easier for me to see your comments on more recent videos because they don't get lost in the sea of comments here! Or if you want to contact me directly send a message on instagram! @doctorchrisg
May you have the courage to design the life you deserve 💙
You are truly speaking truth from your very heart that many people your age so so are in your place
More views because people need uncommon wisdom more than ever.
I am hippie living in my van and so over working....
I love how people are coming out and exposing these things.
The rat race 🐀
Chasing Material wealth for happiness 😔
I love RUclips 😍
Cool story man
I was a brain surgeon in a most prestigious hospital in London for 27 years, was on call regularly, helped people as much as I can, did continual study and self improvement, had the cars, houses, but no time! I threw all that away and now I have an old RV and travelling thee US as a hippy. Source: Trust me bro.
Very cool! 😊
I was an RN for 30 years and walked away from a well paying job, but the last 5 years were miserable. i quit my job with no plans. I moved across the country and lived in a van for several months. I found a small, rural town to move to. I gave my license up and have never been happier. I live in a pretty poor area and am now considered low income, but have never been happier. I am doing what I want.
I hope you can find something that brings income there.
Wow, didn't you save?
@@cherb3145Often very hard to save given the costs of housing, transport etc
license means *****........ you are still a Nurse. and could be very helpful when someone is injured.
a paper DOESN'T define your skills
why woudl you give up licence
I knew someone who became a general practitioner MD. He hated it even though he opened his own clinic, worked his own hours and made good money. All his life he simply wanted the title of "doctor" in front of his name. He wasn't married and didn't even have a big house. One day he took a vacation in SE Asia wanting to get away from western society. He stayed for almost six months learning the culinary arts of Thai, Cantonese and Vietnamese dishes and eventually switched to being a chef and catering wherever he was needed in SE Asia.
I last heard he lives in the villages in Burma and gives free medical check ups to the poor while living his life as a chef in the city. Maybe that was his purpose. Life is funny that way sometimes I guess
This is awesome..
Truly inspiring.
Burma has been renamed Myanmar for quite some time now. Not a safe place politically. Good luck to him.
@@BlueEyed888 he bought an insurance policy, don't worry lol.
Love this story! Thanks for sharing!
I was a highly successful lawyer making tons of money but I wasn’t happy and constantly stressed. Early retired in Vietnam a lot more poor but a lot more happy!!!!
How are you going to stay in Vietnam?
It's not poverty when you live of capital and don't have to work early lol
@@Kitiwakeborder runs a few a year is the usual.
What do you mean a lot more poor? Can't you use some of your money with the low cost of living?
@sweetbeep he has a pie that will last him a couple of lifetimes 🥧 🍰
I never went to college. I worked 2 jobs since I was 18. I saved, saved, saved and saved and also lived, lived, lived. I've always lived extremely simple, helping animals, drinking coffee, reading books, doing some research and exploring, and doing a lot of hiking. At 32, I quit normal working- I have saved enough to go to something even less stressful and go live life. I've been doing this for 18 years. I don't have the material things that seem to be required to prove one is successful. Having a backpack, a Jeep and a dog is not seen as successful, at least in the US. I work seasonal jobs to fund my life, so I'm not touching my savings. I wish you peace and happiness.
@@txspacemom765 nice dude, where and what suggestions do you have for seasonal jobs? I've been thinking of creating a similar lifestyle. Thanks
@@briant5135 Parks, Campsites, Holiday seasonal at stores.
Good on you
Your greatest wealth is your soul and a lot of us
sell it to live a lie... That ideal capitalist idea of success is empty
@@briant5135I'm not a dude but I like the sentiment.
After 14 years of medicine, I’m also quitting to take a career break! I work in palliative care and I have learnt, life is too short and “next time” may never come around.
Good for you. 14 years in palliative definitely would give you good perspective. Enjoy your career break!
Me too! 17 years as a surgery and pain management PA I’m taking a year break starting May 2025 to spend time with my young growing kids. Stoked!! Good luck everyone!
Dude, I feel this so deeply. I can’t say I ever reached the level of a doctor, but I found myself caught in the rat race in my late twenties. I was making good money, but I hated my life. Weekends weren’t a relief-they were tainted by the stress of the week before. It was like brackish water mixing with the clear, the sadness and heaviness following me everywhere. I had no choice but to quit.
I bought a one-way ticket to South America, planning to stay a month, but a month turned into six, and six turned into a year. Along the way, I met incredible people, and as I’d tell them, traveling with no itinerary is, in my opinion, the purest way to experience what it means to be human. I’d wake up, ask myself what I wanted to do, and just do it. Too tired to surf? No problem. Spend the day lounging. A friend wanted to hike to a waterfall? Absolutely, I’m in.
There was this beautiful inverse relationship between time spent traveling and the sadness in my heart. As one increased, the other diminished. I thought I’d live like that forever, but eventually, a new kind of loneliness crept in. It wasn’t the same kind of sadness I had before, but it was still there, percolating and manifesting as selfishness. As a traveler from a developed country, with money that stretched farther than I ever thought possible, I started to take my privilege for granted.
That realization brought me home with a desire to help people. For me, healthcare felt like the best way to make an intimate and meaningful connection with others. It’s one of the most visceral ways to truly *provide* for someone. But, as you know too well, every path has its own bog to trudge through. I’m back in school now, but I already see overworked, disillusioned professionals, and I selfishly fear for myself-that I’ll become one of them, that I’ll simply exchange one source of unhappiness for another.
Still, I think life needs a little pain, a little uncertainty, and constant work-it’s what Jonah Hill’s movie *Stutz* talks about. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s striving for balance, knowing full well it may never be achieved. I’m grateful to be human, that this bundle of cells I call “me” was lucky enough to exist at all.
I have regrets-plenty of them. I regret not seeking a partner sooner, not getting therapy earlier, and putting my younger self through so much unnecessary agony. I wish I could go back and apologize to him. But I’m also thankful for everything I’ve experienced. Your video brought tears to my eyes, reminding me of the sweet smell of humid jungle air, the constant symphony of animals, and the welcoming smiles of locals. I loved Colombia. I miss Minca.
I know true balance might never be obtained, but I hope to get close. I’m so happy for you-for your love, your commitment to helping others even as you travel, and for prioritizing yourself along the way. Keep going.
Kudos! For over 5 years, I’ve been teaching teenagers in the Philippines how to craft high-quality dentures for their elders for less than $10. This simple skill allows the elderly to eat properly, smile with confidence, and live a more fulfilling life. When you take capitalism out of the equation, life starts to make a lot more sense.
That’s amazing!
this is awesome! now i want to learn how to craft high quality dentures for elders for less than $10!
@@katriannanondualityThank you! If you're genuinely interested and based in the USA, you'll soon have the opportunity to get involved. I'm currently building a community that teaches how to create most dental appliances yourself at a fraction of the cost, without compromising on quality or aesthetics. There are nearly 70 million people in the US without dental insurance, and many are left to deal with their dental issues alone-this initiative aims to change that.
Thank you, Sir, for your valued contribution. God bless you more. 🙏
Cheap toothpaste and toothbrushes is a better solution.
8 years ago, when I turned 60, I decided to leave a permanent, well paying professional position and dive into a very different life. This life was extremely stressful, looking at my colleagues, I realised I did not want to be living like this any longer. I became a tour guide and just this year, I have decided that after 8 years of constant travel (and loving it) I am going to do something different again. I am not sure what will be but I am positive and optimistic about my future. It is never ever too late to do what this young man says. My father worked hard all his life, was lucky to retire at an earlier age and died within 1 year of feeling he was finally free to live the way he wanted to. Good on you Dr Chris! My sister left medicine after almost 30 years and is doing something that makes her much happier.
I was a middle school teacher for 30 years -never traveled and worked my butt off. I wanted to be a musician but I knew I had to eat so I fast tracked 30 years of my life so I could earn a monthly paycheck each month after I retired. Now at 60 years old -I am ready to get started on my music career. I’m elated! Can’t wait to put out my first Album and start playing at clubs
Sounds like my dear father ❤ he passed away 2year ago 😢
I'm a doctor in South Korea. I'm also having a "mini retirement" after working as a GP for four years. I sometimes feel vulnerable because I have nowhere to go every day and I have to spend my savings. But at the same time, I have an internal dialogue with myself about what I really like and what I love. Being a doctor is everyone's dream in South Korea, so I think I unconsciously made this decision to conform to that atmosphere. I thought being a doctor was a magic prescription for happiness ever after, but it wasn’t at all. I'm glad to have this time to reflect on myself. It was amazing to hear from other doctors who have lived a life like mine. Thanks for making this video!
I'm glad you are taking a well deserved mini-retirement. And thank you for leaving this comment because it reminds me that there are many people in the world who feel the same way I do.
You won't regret your decision. I'm a lawyer in Canada who is taking time off and am enjoying it so much I may not return. To be a doctor in S. Korea is an incredible feat. You had to be the best of the best at everything. Maybe take some time to envision your ideal life. Expose yourself to new things. Travel. Inexpensive new hobbies can broaden your mind and make you whole. Congrats on the adventure!
@@doctorchrisgright on. I’m 24 years into an art career as a doctor too. Should have been an architect I think! 😂😂
You check also Dr Goodie Doodie a doctor who decide to quit too…
I was a nurse for 20 years, then moved to Ecuador & restored a historical house which I made into a small hotel with a coffee shop. Now I’m still here 10+ years later as the country is collapsing. I sold the house due to the economy & am free again for the next dream. Not sure what that is but I’m exploring to find out. I don’t want to enter the rat race again. I wish I never was a nurse & I didn’t get locked in for 20 years, but I can’t see any other way I could’ve bought my freedom & lived so fully compared to most people. I’ve also traveled extensively.
I am an optometrist and took a sabbatical from 2020- 2023. It was the happiest time of my life in recent times, traveled around Mexico and the Caribbean. Then got bored too and decided to work again, but with a different mindset. I have come to the conclusion, that for me, retirement is overated, just find a purpose, and something you are passionate about, Ikigai like the Japanese call it
We all need the breaks to reset, and re-purpose
Love it, thanks for sharing. I too have just landed in Mexico, beautiful country!
Agreed meaning is paramount.
Welcome to my country @@doctorchrisg
I did the same thing
I have a degree in physiotherapy but I worked as a live-in nanny for this lovely family for 7 years until the kids pretty much able to do things on their own and no longer needed my service. I enjoyed that job very much even if some of my physiotherapy colleagues looks me down. With my little saving from that job, I was able to purchased a small plot in a tiny island in southeast asia for less than 5k $ and built a simple cabin with 2 rental native huts for the total cost of 10k$. I go fishing whenever I want and have a little garden. These are the things that makes me happy now. Just do things that makes you happy. Life is all about the journey because our destination is final.
I was a librarian for 27 years, a single mum. I resigned from my permanent pensionable job in 2017 to become a full time artist. My daughter was 10 years old and I had a mortgage. Things worked out and I have never regretted it for a day. I have recently come through breast cancer treatment thankfully, but I realise that a life beyond‘retirement’ is not guaranteed to any of us. So live your life as best you can. You really do have the key! Enjoyed listening to your story. Keep lit!
Thank you for posting
Just to say ,I losty job through Bankruptcy,lost my shares and all privileged paid benefits ,lost my health after ,however the losses were so vast I simply could not believe ,yes it is difficult .I took time off to go to a more natural lifestyle ,discovering nature was my healing gift .I encourage you to pursue natural medicine ,just do it on your own without degrees trust me the interest in helping people with medicine natures way ,is the best any companies would love to help you I know conventional medicine is becoming not trustworthy.what saved me was a more naturalistic self education .I taught myself .Don't get emotional ,you will get there on your destiny,we know all of what you are saying ,look for the healing through gifts you don't pay for ,Our earthly experience is worth more than a certificate
Love the background in your video ,wishes for you is you get through the memories .Half the battle .Love and strength to you .
Mini-retirements! Never thought of it that way but it is what I did. Will be 80 next year. Have had a number of careers. When I began to resent what I was doing I did something else. Have started and run 4 different companies. Graphics, real estate, finance and the last - a restaurant. Worked hard but enjoyed it. Fully retired in 2010. Happy and healthy with no regrets! Do it!
Dr. Chris, you’re not dropping out or less doctor than anybody. I admire your decision. I was born with right brain which is artistic brain, but went into medical school and was miserable as a doctor. When I retired after 50 years of practice, “Where’s my youth gone by?” Can’t find anywhere but regret.
At 40 yrs I have thrown in the towel. Dr for 15 yrs.
At 40 yrs I have thrown in the towel. Dr for 15 yrs.
I moved to another country, and have been studying and working continuously for 21 years. Out of the blue, a cancer diagnosis has been like a wake-up about life. My treatment finished a couple of weeks ago. Grateful and thinking much more about happiness, friends, and family.
Most definitely was lacking in the vitamin D! Enjoy your next travels
Chris you are a ray of sunshine in this rather dull and material world. Wish we had more people like you. Bravo.
Gap years every 3 to 5 years…stay young, learn languages, live in the world, not in a box for decades, thank you for sharing, life is meant to be enjoyed, not daily stress
But as a medical doctor, you could explore and share medical remedies and treatments from all over the world to help others. Being a youtuber for the sake of travel makes it all about you, and not others. What about the work of Medecins sans frontieres and similar organizations?. Ur so lucky to have the medical degree: use it in a way that makes you happy or fulfilled while informing and helping others. I trained English teachers in other countries and though I traveled extensively, it was the work that was most satisfying. Good luck! 😊
Yeah, Chinese will own you with that philosophy
@@arcabuznonsense
If you can.. That would me great
I'm currently living in my campervan after stepping away from teaching (for a 3rd time in 29 years) I've rented out my small house and simply plan to stay healthy and enjoy doing the things I love (walking, cycling, running and travel). No grand plan, just following my intuition and ignoring the gremlins that pop up in my head! I recommend the simple life, away from all the nonsense and noise. Great video. Thanks.
I also quit teaching recently, but I can't say that I'm not worried about my future and how I'm gonna make money to survive
❤
I am a gastroenterologist in India in final year of my medical gastroenterology residency . I’ll be finishing in April next year. I have felt miserable and lost doing what I am doing. Miserable to the extent where I wish I would just stop living. You have given me hope. ❤ thank you so much for existing.
Hang in there ❤ you will find yourself
Thank you. Good luck, things will get better
Hope you are doing much better now. Have faith things will be better for you. Take a break as soon as you can. All those years of studying and achieving probably drained you.
Yahhhh…..you got hope by just listening to Chris. Good for you. Now you have light at the end of your (April) tunnel. Happy for you.
Hold on a little longer 🤗❤ take care of you, my friend
I got into an Uber and asked if the well dressed, handsome 70yr old driver if he got a Mercedes from working Uber. He said he was sold the story as a child that being a doctor or lawyer was the ultimate. He said being a lawyer was the pits. He missed out on his family, missed so many family holidays because cases extended way beyond the timeframe expected. He was often working till 2-3am most nights. He was on his third marriage and feels that his job ruined his life. He started driving Uber and is enjoying his job for the first time in his life. I couldn’t cried & still feel like crying every time I think of this man.
What you´ve done is awesome and immensely fulfilling. I hope everyone at least tries once in their life. I am on the same path and recently started my new life in Brazil, leaving Europe, once again. It could seem impossible to do, some of us are privileged as you said, however, we all have the key to get out of this mental prison cell which is having the same/similar life that our parents had. Congrats Chris!
I was at a daycare 26 years and when I retired it was the best thing I did. Have a land and love nature birds and gardens and camping. Thats life. We are just here for a little while so do what feels right. Cheers. Enjoy life.
Did something similar nearly 20 years ago. Now in my 50s, and feel I need to do it again, as worked harder than ever during lockdown, and haven't stopped. In fact barely noticed we are out of it!
Worked as a Covid19 Support Worker (in an NHS hospital) during the lockdown, and then went back to being a qualified teacher afterwards, plus keeping my business ticking over. I'm burnt out!
From the day we’re born in order to maintain the infrastructure of civilisation, we go through so many stages. Of being processed and conditioned, but it’s unnatural way of living. We were never meant to live like this.
We are incredible creatures, and we have an amazing ability to adapt to situations in order to survive, but there are breaking point. We are starting to see a rebellion against our conditioning.
Industrial Society has been a disaster for the human race
Thank you! I love it. I agree totally. I am 60 years old and I think you will be very successful -i can feel it. I can’t wait.😍
I’m now 63, at 18 I detached a ligament in my left knee and almost the interior ligament. I was thinking to go to New York and become a bike messenger that’s all I knew at the time. I went into a deep depression if you want to call it that - it was trauma for sure. Which lasted about 5 years saw me thru under grad school. By then I had fully closed my book on life. I took a meanly job which lasted 20 years till I had the courage to quit. My oldest brother is of the generation who’s belief was education would save the world. They were right but things changed and that didn’t workout. I’m glad to see your generation trekking what’s left of their pathway. Go enjoy yourself and do some good along the way.
Fantastic. This is a breath of fresh air. The world is in good hands with a person like you.
What a fabulous personal testimony. You've definitely done the right thing. It's also surprising how many people are in full agreement with all you've just spoken about. I have only come across this upload this evening and I'm looking forward to watching further uploads on your channel.
I'm 53 and I've taken 3 mini retirements in my life so far -[I'm ready for the next one tbh!!] I'm so glad it's now a "thing" - makes me look a bit less crazy!
You're definitely doing it right!
Yes, I've been doing this for years, didn't realize it was a thing but it was a natural thing to take a break and break away on your own.
It's awesome you are traveling. I am peruvian and worked in Silicon Valley, it's a good working experience. But it's not for me. Hope you enjoy and meet interesting cultures and people. You never stop learning until death.
Quit last year and spent 4 months in South East Asia. I totally agree about your mini retirement theory. I plan to do it again. Suddenly materialism is not important any more and i value friendships, meeting new people and exploring the world. My appetite to climb the corporate career ladder just doesnt exist anymore. Its more about happiness for me.
I watched this and didn't really think I had something I valued or that I wanted to do. But something came to me I really should look for my other half. I've never been as happy as I've been spending time with someone I deeply care about.
Ive served in the military, worked fishing in Alaska, worked on 300ft cell phone towers, and now drive freight trains. Ive been to all 50 states and 48 countries across 6 continents by myself and with my own money. Ive been shamed for it because i still dont have a degree, no house, no wife/kids. Called peter pan, lazy, a bum, and a child. Im only 30.
I think what you have done is incredible and somehow the thought crossed my mind that people who say those things about you might be very jealous. I am 45 and have not done as much as you but still a lot of things which seem crazy to my quite conservative family and for a while I came back and didn't fit in in my country. It is time to be me again 🌞 Thank you for your example and how it sounds contentment 🌞
Well I used to live like this but not on such scale. I felt exhausted and I settled at age of 33.
You live an incredible life!
they are just jealous you have freedom to relocate how you want but they cannot
❤
You’re on the right path, me and my partner have taken many mini retirements in our 40years together . We spent the first 5 years of our daughter’s life , just being a new family, when she started school we went back to work. Now at nearly 60 , just about to retire again from corporate life.However neither of us want to stop working , just the type of work , more fulfilling work, rather than needing high pay. There are times you need to knuckle down , but this cannot be all the time.
Being a medical doctor is a service to humanity. I cant thank the doctors enough when my son was in the hospital.
Exactly. We are at service for humanity.
If doctors don't choose their career based on a godly will be the ones that fill unfulfilled, unhappy and will drop out.
If you see this job as an opportunity to serve Christ, burn out does not exist 🙏👩⚕️🧑⚕️
Hey Chris, I'm a psychiatrist in NZ. I see quite a few burnout nurses, doctors, lawyers, and other professionals, in my clinic. Good on you for prioritising your mental health. It's much more important to be a happy and balanced doctor. The old school thinking believes that doctors ought to be martyrs but that thinking often leads to physician suicide. If this carries on, we won't have any more doctors to go around!
Take care, and pop over the Tasman for a visit!
Where's your clinic? I agree on the nurse
I think the doctors of the past just drowned their stress and anxiety with various forms of alcohol, drugs, and other vices. When a more health cautious generation like ours hit that point, it becomes a different story like Dr. Chris is having here.
As someone who moved from the Philippines to Canada and now back, I completely relate with the idea of mini-retirements and how life is so much more fulfilling here. Life just springs anywhere year-round. Random cat living in your yard, dragonflies, butterflies, ants, snails, worms, bees, etc. just random signs of life 12 months of the year.
The being happy 50% of the time also goes in line with the Roman's Golden Rule. Everything in moderation...even happiness.
PS. I hate winter.
Everything in moderation, even happiness. I love that! Thanks for your comment.
Did you leave Canada because you hate winter? Good luck to you!
30 years as a pharmacist. Quit the profession in 2022 at 52. Moved to another country, learning a new language and adapting to a new culture. Best. Decision. Ever. Jump and the net will appear !
Jump and the net will appear, I like your heroic take on life.
you must have made a lot of savings as a pharmacist for that long. many of us cant work more than 5 yrs in this toxic environment
yes but throughout 30 yr you've built solid savings so you may relax now, right? so one can not completely deny jobs
@ Yes. You are correct. I was and am fortunate to have had a full career. It has allowed me to relax at this point in my life. But there is a trade of, in my opinion, in the form or work related stress and the possibility of associated illness that accompanies it. I don’t believe there is a right or wrong path. Unfortunately most of us need money to live in this world. I traded “living” for work when I was younger. But with a plan and a consistent job it has allowed me to trade work for a life while I still have some years to enjoy it.
@@Golightandgo come over to Australia :)
I live in the UK and caught up in a similar corporate job trap but I decided to take a break to figure out what I want in my life and how it should ideally be as per my dreams and desires ✨✨
So grateful to hear each word of yours and one of the best videos I have come across on RUclips,goes straight to our hearts❤❤❤
And yes you reminded me of my RUclips channel which I was so passionate about about to share important things during Covid and UK travels in 2020😔Completely worked up wid my job that couldnt create content even though its love of my life😔Thank you for inspiring us💐💐
You are still young. May God guide you every step of your way.
Ameen! 🙏🏽 What a beautiful prayer!😊❤
You're on spot when you said that you were lucky to be privileged. Not all of us can afford to have "mini holidays/retirement", especially for those people who live in a third-world country like I am.
The golden handcuffs. Thats how you become a prisioner. You got to be willing to unlock the handcuffs and risk it for the live you want and deserve. No money is worth if you arent happy.
Work has become almost like a religion with everyone reciting the same mantras about 'waterfall versus agile' or 'process improvement' from the vocabulary of LinkedIn. I've seen people who do that for 30 years turn into robots, no sign of life at all it's scary
"The golden handcuffs", is such a unique, but apt term!🙂👍🏽👋🏾👨🏽⚕️
Wow, well said.
You are not only a doctor for the body. But a doctor of the soul and spirit. Thank you for taking up your true vocation.
Great to hear your inspiring story, Chris. Indeed I found a lot of similarities with my life and what I have changed. I reframed things to make a job I disliked work for me to provide a pathway for composition - what I love ❤
Cheers and good luck 😊
😭😭😭. I am literally sobbing from this. I feel like i am the person you were mentioning. And why is it that whenever i feel miserable, videos like this of yours always gets uploaded and notified to me?! huhu! I am thankful though for the enlightenment you give.
I think i am imprisoned mentally...i just dont know how to get out. God please help me!
PS: I think the Philippines changed you more than any other. Your exposure to how life is so difficult in the other side of the world opened your eyes. I am glad you had that opportunity. Good for you.
Hey James I appreciate you watching my videos and I'm glad they help you in some way. I agree the Philippines had a huge affect on me and I'm grateful for it.
I genuinely and sincerely hope you get everything you want out of your life. You seem like a person who deserves it :)
@@doctorchrisg thank you man. Safe travels
Thank you, I'm so glad you have the internal fortitude and integrity to share, Chris.
Hey Chris! This is the first time I see your channel!
Am a dr too .. Hated Med school .. Decided to do ecommerce.. after graduation I received aLOT of blame and questions from everyone..
I went to therapy and just realized I don't have to BE a doctor just because I studied it ...
Freeing ourselves from titles and embracing life and being happy and fulfilled❤ is what's most important!
Seeing your video definitely resonates A LOT ❤ Thank you for having the courage to do it
I wish u well mate .. You're on the right track
This is so inspiring. Many thanks for sharing about mini retirement. In a country where have less privilege, it's just a dream. Thank you that we all have our own key and we have to realize ourselves where we are and what we want to do out of our life. Because of watching your videos, I got more energy to find the purpose of my life. Thank you so much Chris. Come visit Myanmar once when the things are getting better here and wish to see you in person which becomes my bucket list. You are so real and I love the way of your expression of truth. Totally worth watching and this 19:58 mins are so precious to me. Many many thanks to you again and again. Cheers, Lin Lin. I will try to apply 50% rule.
I'm beginning my journey into postgraduate study in Australia. I've been doing a lot of thinking, asking myself questions like "am I in the right place?" Or, "do I really want to do this?" One thing that young people have right now is the sheer amount of wisdom that can be found on the internet (if they know where to look). Great video mate! Some awesome pieces of advice! 🙏
I've worked in the NHS for 25 years in a non-clinical role. It's super stressful and full of toxic managers. I'm 61 and just trying to stick it out for 2 more years, but your video does make me think again...
25 years is a huge commitment! I hope you decide what’s right for you :)
@@doctorchrisg thank you!
That's amazing, I studied nursing at U.C.H. - 1981 to 1984 ! it was an eye-opener !
@@Amanda_downunder are you still in nursing? It's tough!
@@mamacitasalsera - No, I did not stay in nursing, but some parts of it I loved, some wards .. others were traumatic ! and I was shocked at the drugs patients were on. short-staffed too a lot of the time !
I am a nurse done it for 15 years I'm a mum had kids in twenties, from all my eras im right bending what your sharing with a mindset like that keep protecting your energy and you'll be happy I wish ylu happiness 😊
Dude, you are right. As a support I have totally let this 23 minutes commercial play without escaping in your video and hopefully will help you to continue making inspiring videos. Cheers! (Btw, I also works in NHS and I feel your pain)
You're amazing, thank you for the support! And good luck with your journey in the NHS, they need people like you.
As someone who has retired from being a solicitor in my late forties I admire your level of awareness at a young age. I only stopped when my work made me ill.
I hope you're well.
Thank you for speaking about this, Chris! Good luck on your journey x
Great humble ending! Very respectful! I enjoyed this video!
I am 80 and thought of all the stressed I was for so many years. I never thought of taking a mini retirement. What a wonderful idea. Now I can no longer take holidays because of health issues. I am not unhappy having done a lot of travelling and living all over New Zealand.
I love this. I’m off work due to ill health. The irony is I’ve not been able to get back into the workforce no matter how hard I try. Watching your video makes me understand that maybe it’s a blessing, and I should enjoy this time where I’m creatively free.
Why? Have you been off for too long?
I shut down my profitable business eight years ago because it was draining my energy, and it’s the best decision I’ve ever made. Now, I have a lower income, but 100% of my time is mine to do what I want. I live in a beach destination-literally a paradise-and I’ll never go back to working as hard as I did before.
Where is that paradise? Sounds great! Good luck to you!
@ I’m in Cancún México
It is very difficult to maintain a healthy life style working shifts.
When I discuss this with people I know they always ask about money.Never asking are you sleeping enough, eating on a sched. , working out, have time for your interests.
Thank you for making all these points in your video.
Similarly, I dropped my life as I knew it, at age of 40 , being a singly childless woman, and started a new one in another country, and boy was that a drastic much needed leap, but it all worked out for best. It was 25 years ago. God is good. Much love.
Time is so precious! Enjoy and take care. Thanks about your philosophies.
I appreciate you watching and commenting. The experience you provided us in the Philippines had a huge impact on me, I hope you realise you're doing an amazing thing. Take care
Thanks, mate - hey, I got a question: Do u use tuna juice as lube?
I'm watching for the first time, and just subscribed because there's a lot going on here. Just the right pace. Not at all egotistical. Imagine being so good at self analysis at such a young age.
I love your video Dr Chris. I never had a big career and only now in my late 40s am I glad of it. Means I’m more flexible. I don’t travel as much as you - I prefer to camp locally and be in nature. It’s cheap and feeds the soul just as much as international travel for me. I’ve worked and had breaks to bring up children. I’ve had a good full life and very lucky to have been born in NZ to a life of privilege. I have a small list of things I’d like to do which require not working or mini breaks from work. At the moment I’m working fulltime and soon ready to take a break and try something different. When I look back the things that matter are the people I’ve met and connected with, workmates, friends and family, being close to nature and making large decisions that are life changing. The large decisions make you realize what power you have to completely change your life in a week or a year. Very powerful. I think that’s what you are experiencing - make a large decision and jump off the cliff. Very freeing and hope you experience many more such experiences!
NZ is beautiful you are lucky. Agree with connections and nature for sure! Enjoy your next step
i worked 25 years as a hairdresser and 5 years truck driving in the mines . I’ve paid off my house . I’m thinking of selling up and just doing a couple of days in dissabikity work or just taking a year off . I had two years of depression and burnout …
This is such a beautiful message. Thank you and thank you for your sincerity.
Thank you for sharing,I resonated with your story. I’m also burnt out from my job and am waiting til the end of this winter then permanently quitting the rat race forever. Nice to hear others are going through the same. 🙏
I feel you on this so much. I spent my entire adult life after graduating 22 years in the Air Force and retired from that. Through 9-11 & countless other things wrecked my body beyond belief. Now in my early 40's I have a 2 lvl spinal fusion, herniations in neck, multiple shoulder surgeries, knee surgery, other abdominal surgery. At 40 it hurts to move sometimes, and I get stiff quickly.
After retiring from the Air Force, I became a well-paid manager at a large company but still not satisfied, every day is more grind, more stress. I see so many employees work their whole life just to keel over before they retire, get cancer diagnosis, or die within a few years of retiring. My own father got a diagnosis shortly after retiring.
I just can’t see myself being another one. That would be so crushing to work your whole life & not enjoy the rewards of your efforts. I’ve shifted to minimalism over the past few years, my girl and I are planning to retire in 3 years once my son graduates and live on a sailboat cruising the world before we can’t.
My childhood friends' parents did this, they ran the family hotel, sold it to a property developer, as soon as their kids left home, bought a yacht, and sailed the world. Absolutely no idea what happened to them, as it was pre-Internet, so no 'evidence'. But I'm sure they were happy.
This is of the most inspiring videos I have ever watched on YT so thank you. Really makes me think about what more I want from life. I hope you get a million views and I hope you get the future you dream of.
Thank you, I'm happy you got something from it and I wish you all the best pursuing a life you love!
Yes, it was really direct and straight to the point. I had to laugh when you said the NHS was horrible. My time in schools was the same.
I am an MD too, 6 years in a big hospital, 4 years on a remote island, 1 year in an evacuation company. I quitted my job last year n started my own restaurant. Life is easy, my mind is clear
Nice grammar and vocab doc 😂
@Manylimes thanks Mr. Grammerchecker
@@Manylimes You don't have to be smart! He probably speaks another language.
Country?
Was a Doctor too in Australia, dropped it, now I grow passion fruit
I’ve made similar choices for my life. I’m “front loading” my life. I don’t want to save, save and save for a time that might never come. I want to do all I can while I can, while I’m able to be active. I often feel societal pressure to live a more traditional life but lately that pressure just makes me more grateful for the choices I’ve made. I feel very lucky and i also realize it is an enormous privilege to have these choices in life.
It’s refreshing to see someone else doing the same. I may not have the amount of money in my savings as many people do but my life bank is so full. I’m very happy and in awe of the beautiful things around me and life in general every single day.
Instant follow. You‘re an outstanding human being. Love this video. Thank you!
What I liked is your VOICE, find joy in things that can't be bought, nature never betrayed the heart........
"Physician heal theyself". You can't really take care of others unless you take care of yourself. It took me longer to figure out what I'm glad you realized much sooner. Good luck Dr. G, from the ED and Dr. S:)
I am so grateful for this! I've let go of my job and sold everything, even my house, to live a more fulfilling life. See the world. Thank you for showing me I'm not the only one. ❤
Have you seen the meme “can you explain your resume gap?” Interviewee: “That was the only time I felt joy in my life.”
😂 love it
I was asked that question about the resume gap. I ended up getting the job. The guy who hired me who then became my boss, ended up taking a 6 month sabbatical himself saying I inspired him!!
@@doctorchrisg❤❤❤❤❤❤
What a sad yet beautiful story, the sadness being trapped on the merry go round of life, the beauty, putting the brakes on the merry go around and seeking a direction,and finding your happiness. here is another quote for your list,, Be happy with what you have and are, be generous with both, and you won’t have to hunt for happiness.” - William E. Gladstone stay strong stay happy, and continue to share your knowledge of life.
What an inspiring video. Thank you Chris 🙏 For the last couple of years I have secretly been planning to do the same as you have done. Quitting the stressful job as a product manager to take some time off and travel the world. I have even bought a world map and put pins on the places I want to visit. I am 47 now and have enough money to do this but I have my dear old dog (11½ years old) and she's not fit to travel. So my plan is to work till she "moves on" 🥀 which will be a tough time since she's my "child" 😢
But as you say, do it while you can, because the stress has taken its toll. I have felt burnt out the past year and 2½ months ago I was diagnosed with Mdds (Mal de Debargement Syndrome). I see it as a final sign that I have to change my life now! So now I am called in sick and planning the next steps. Mdds has made it a bit difficult though but not impossible 🤔
I'm a early 40s former high earning tech manager. Now I'm just focusing on photography and finishing my novel.
Very well said, Dr. Chris. We have something in common, being a risk taker. Thanks for mentioning my country, the Philippines. I am now retired as a flight attendant, and just like you, I have a passion for traveling and helping people. Continue your journey with your partner. You'll find more wisdom along the way. You're still young, and I wish you more beautiful adventures and continue to live your best life. I am glad to have crossed your channel. I am now your fan.
Planning to take about a year off starting this Jan. This will be the first time I’ve done this, am a bit nervous, but absolutely looking forward to it.
Exactly how I feel-trapped, suffocated with no way out. Thank you for making this video & sharing. Maybe one day….
Beautiful story my friend. I've heard such similar stories from people like yourself in high-stress, demanding positions (doctors, lawyers, etc.) -- your life and your happiness are worth far more than money!
God bless you and your fiancé on your journey. Cheers!!
I am a retired happy doctor from OZ. Your degree of comfort with uncertainty, and love of risk, make you ideally suited for rural and remote medicine.
Talk to ACRRM…
He has ADHD.
Shifting and loss of interest for activities, longing for freedom and adventure.
Such a loss to spend 6 years in medschool and then drop out.
People should be better adviced and screened prior to making such a step. Inrolling in medschool should be only for the die-hards and trully motivated.
Thanks Chris,I so enjoyed this video.Felt like a little girl whose mother is telling her a night time story.You have a natural talent.I will travel the world through your lense.🌸
I followed the social plan, married and had children, feel trapped even at 64 as MD, have not escaped but dream it every day. I know that feeling you speak of but now I feel too old. Regrets.
Hope this helps: My father remarried, and moved to a new country, aged 70 !
He's nearly 80 now, and I believe if he hadn't started a new life abroad, I believe he would have died, years ago.
You are right. People are waiting for something to be happy. Be happy now. Live now. Thank you.
Couldn't agree more 🙌
agree with you 🤝
Mate this is it , This is your 1M Video,Cant wait for this to blow up , thanks for this video i resonated with it so much. ❤
I agree. The algorithm showed this to me. This is THE video.
Thank you for your kindness, glad it resonated
I agree, takes a lot of courage and openness to share something so heartfelt, which ultimately makes it relatable to many!
I'm also a general practitioner who graduated last year. Resigned from my job after 1.5 years. I'm losing the passion to take care for people while being severely underwaged with toxic environment. Transitioning to business at the moment. I just couldn't imagine myself having a life like my consultants (dealing with toxic colleagues, working your whole life serving people, endless examinations, less and lesser time for pursuing your passion, etc.). The profession really demands genuin passion and sacrifice.
Chris, at 13:00 your statement about preventative measures stood out to me.
I’m a software engineer in my 30s who’s able to do the same as you. I had some health issues and had to go deep into this field.
What helped me to see things better is cross disciplinary approach.
Biochemistry is just barely scratching the surface. Psychology pushes it a bit further.
But what really helped me is physics. More specifically photobiology and planetary sciences.
Mix that with some of the spirituality work and you’ll see how many more variables are included in holistic health.
U r truly wise beyond your age & I'm so happy for u for chasing & living your dreams as most may never wake up till it's too late for them...
Thanks for sharing. I’ve been as far as I wanted to go in academic medicine…department chief. No one understood why I would resign and step aside from the prestige and money, but I had been having internal dialogue and knew I needed a mini retirement. I took 9 months off, then returned to a similar position at another hospital. I am now 7 months in my second mini retirement. The time away has given me more clarity. At this point I recognize how much I enjoy teaching people how to prevent diseases in the first place, and I love not having a set work schedule. I wish everyone was in the position to be able to take time away to seek clarity, and have the opportunity to reinvent and focus on what they enjoy.
Thanks for sharing your story! I'm glad the time off gave you the clarity you needed. I find it reassuring to hear doctors from all over the world having a similar experience. Good luck on your journey!
50 % rule makes sense! I have been teaching for 30 yrs and will be retiring at the end of this school year. Hope to travel more and be happy and stress free. Looking forward to enjoying my mornings without being rushed all the time...
A lot Stress makes us old and sad . So optimal stress is necessary for us .But Extreme of stress makes us chaotic
These comments gave me the biggest relief ever
Graduated from Medicine in 2021 in dubai
Was in my first year of Residency and hated every single moment of it
Moved to Istanbul in 2022
Been living my best life
I wasn't cut to be a doctor, i did well academically
I just didn't see appeal nor could i handle the responsibility of it
Wow, what a video!
I am an international student who is studying to become a CRNA in the US, I just chose nursing because I cannot afford to study medicine in the states, and I chose the US because this is the only country I can get a visa to. I am working in two different jobs to pay for all my tuitions. It’s too stressful to study, get good grades and work in two jobs. This is particularly difficult for me as I already have a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in Linguistics and Literature from my country (Turkmenistan). As you said, I feel like I’m in my own mental prison, always trying to find happiness even in the smallest thing, full of worries about my future and finances. This sadly stems from the fact that I’m from an undeveloped country, which makes everything even more challenging for me. I really liked this video, especially the part about mini retirements to reflect on your life, and find what you truly want in your life. I hope that you find what you really want, become a dad, and be happy!
Thank you for your video!!!!
Same I’m trying to do crna later in life
Make some breaks, otherwise you will burn out. Think about your health
@@winger9229 Best of luck!!
Being immigrant is being brave in its own, use food bank more, second hand clothes, share books for studies if possible…look around how everyone saves, maybe scholarships etc. If others have done it , you can do it too.
Khubi
Hey Chris, I am listening to your words in a coffee shop, thinking about life. I am a software engineer in Singapore, earning a salary better than average, and having some work-life balance. However, I am still eager for freedom and full control of my own life. At the age of 30 this year, I decided to start my side hustle, an email newsletter that aims to popularize AI to non-technical people and investors. I do not have a lot of subscribers for now, but I do enjoy writing and putting my own thoughts into words. I feel the power and genuinity of your voice, and subscribed to your channel. Looking forward to see more in the future. Cheers.
Love that image, thanks for watching and subscribing. More to come!