Danica Nelson, a resident of Toronto, shared her experience of being consumed by work in a recent First Person column. She described how her intense focus on projects led to burnout and a fear of debt, stemming from her upbringing in a financially cautious household. Despite her efforts to avoid debt and maintain financial stability, the toll on her well-being became apparent as she struggled with overwork and exhaustion.

Nelson’s dedication to financial independence led her to work tirelessly from a young age, taking on multiple jobs and avoiding debt at all costs. However, this relentless pursuit of financial security eventually took a toll on her mental and physical health. After experiencing burnout and realizing the need for a break, she took a six-month sabbatical to recharge and reflect on her priorities.

Upon returning to work, she found herself falling back into old habits, prioritizing her job to the point of neglecting her well-being. It took a layoff to prompt her to prioritize self-care and reassess her relationship with work and money. Embracing a period of rest and reflection, she eventually founded a company to help others navigate sabbaticals and career breaks without compromising their financial future.

Through her journey, Nelson learned that true wealth extends beyond financial stability to encompass time freedom, community, and emotional well-being. While she now works fewer hours and prioritizes tasks that bring her joy, she remains grateful for the growth and self-discovery that entrepreneurship has brought her. Despite occasional indulgences like purchasing a luxury item, she emphasizes the importance of maintaining inner peace and avoiding the pitfalls of overwork in pursuit of financial success.