[isabelcedar47860]

We moved to Lisbon partly because we were burned out in the Bay Area. I imagined slower mornings, better weather, less pressure, more family time. Some of that is true. But I still feel stressed by school decisions, paperwork, housing, language, and not knowing how things work. Has anyone moved for a slower life and then felt guilty for still being anxious?

[oliviaolive36374]

Yes. Relocation does not instantly heal burnout. Sometimes it reveals how tired you were because suddenly all your coping systems are gone. Lisbon gave us beauty and better family time, but the first months were still hard. I had to stop asking, “Why am I stressed in such a nice place?” Stress travels unless you deal with it.

[noracoast61769]

The dream needs a spreadsheet and a therapist. I say that with love.

[elenapine41226]

I felt guilty too. Then a friend said, “You moved countries, not apartments.” That helped.

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