Topic: Brooke Mcalary

A career transition in 2016 marked a departure from the corporate rat race and traditional markers of success like home and car upgrades. Discovery of Brooke McAlary’s "The Slow Your Home Podcast" (now titled The Tortoise) introduced the Slow Living Movement, emphasizing mindfulness and intentional choices. This shift focused on living sustainably and prioritizing personal well-being over societal pressure to keep up with peers.

During a period of mental health struggles in early 2024, a handwritten inscription in the book "Care" by Brooke McAlary prompted a realization about the creeping influence of business on personal life. Despite avoiding typical "hustle culture" behaviors, work had begun to occupy excessive mental real estate, leading to an internal pressure to perform. This reflection highlighted a drift away from core values of joy and contentment in favor of business-centric thinking.