Where did our work ethic come from? This unyielding need to stay busy, to always be productive, often to the detriment of our lifestyle.

At my old job, it was a badge of honor to leave the office late. People who left on time were ridiculed, “Whoa, leaving early. Must be nice!”

Honestly, I never got that. We weren’t getting paid overtime. Every hour after the companies established closing time reduced my pay rate. And isn’t that why we work? It seems like it’s gotten to where people need to commit self flagellation just to justify their job.

Not miserable? Well then perhaps your position is expendable.

This attitude appears to be deeply ingrained in the American mindset. I thought I was an exception, but I was wrong. Two weeks removed from the rat race and I still feel guilty about sitting idle for longer than ten minutes at a time. I aim to change that.

It’s ok to enjoy life. It really is. There was a time when enjoying life was my chief occupation. A time when I existed in a constant state of euphoric happiness, completely in sync with my surroundings, finding joy in the most simple exchanges and trite observations.

That changed when I took an office job. I changed. Slowly, imperceptibly; but unequivocally. I stopped enjoying the simple things. I noticed myself laughing less. Drinking more. Complaining too much.

It’s not the jobs fault. It was my fault, for buying into the system and neglecting my internal callings.

We’re supposed to work our fingers to the bone. Quit to pursue a life passion of writing? That’s just crazy.

In fact, at a farewell dinner with a couple of clients, that was the toast they offered, “Here’s to insanity!”

No, for me, staying would have been insane. We’re born with talents and an internal rhythm that we need to embrace in order to live in harmony. I have been boldly defying these things and have paid in happiness and an appreciation for life. While continuing my corporate career would ensure financial stability, the price is too steep. The sacrifice too great.

This isn’t a call for laziness. Not at all. I plan to work more in the coming years than I ever have in my life. I’ll have to if I have any hope of being able to sustain this lifestyle. But it’s work that allows me to live harmoniously with myself and surroundings. It’s my purpose. I can’t believe I have been neglecting it as long as I have, turning my back on my true self, all because it seemed to be what was expected.

There’s a familiar voice that’s recently reemerged in my daily ruminating. One I haven’t heard from in too long.

It’s time we got reacquainted.