Danica Nelson, a resident of Toronto, recounts her experience of being consumed by work on high-stakes projects. She would often lose track of time, neglecting basic needs like eating and taking breaks, all in pursuit of her professional goals. Her intense focus on work was driven by a fear of financial insecurity stemming from her upbringing in a low-income household.
Raised by a single Jamaican mother, Danica internalized the importance of financial prudence, always prioritizing saving and avoiding debt. This fear of scarcity followed her into adulthood, shaping her relationship with money and driving her to work tirelessly to avoid any form of indebtedness.
Despite graduating debt-free and achieving financial self-sufficiency, Danica found herself constantly exhausted and on the brink of burnout. Realizing the need for a change, she took a six-month sabbatical to prioritize self-care and reflection. This break led her to a new job opportunity that paid significantly more, but old habits soon resurfaced, leading to another cycle of burnout.
After seeking professional help and taking a two-month stress leave, Danica learned to prioritize her well-being over work. Following a layoff, she embraced a period of rest and self-discovery, eventually founding Liberty Leave to help others navigate career breaks without compromising their financial stability.
Danica now values wealth beyond monetary gains, focusing on time freedom, community, and mental well-being. While her entrepreneurial journey presents challenges, she prioritizes work that ignites her passion and avoids overworking to protect her inner peace. She has learned to balance financial responsibility with self-care, acknowledging that true wealth extends far beyond material possessions.