Finding Clarity: A Journey Back to Myself

After quitting my job, I needed space—physically, mentally, and emotionally. It felt like I had been holding my breath for so long that I forgot what it was like to breathe freely. So, I decided to take a trip to Jeonju, a place I’ve always heard about for its beauty and cultural heritage but had never made time to visit. I figured if I’m going to start fresh, what better place to rediscover myself than a city steeped in history?

Jeonju welcomed me with open arms. The second I arrived, the charm of the hanok villages, the smell of traditional street food, and the gentle rhythm of life there calmed something inside me. It was as if the city was telling me to slow down, to take my time, and to savor each moment.

I started my trip by renting a hanbok. There’s something special about walking through Jeonju Hanok Village dressed in those beautiful, flowing fabrics. It felt like I was stepping back in time, but in a way that made me feel more grounded in the present. I wandered through the narrow streets, past traditional tea houses and craft shops, and took photos that felt different from the ones I used to snap hurriedly on work trips. These photos weren’t for anyone but me—moments I wanted to hold onto for my own memory.

Afterward, I made my way to Gyeonggijeon Shrine. I don’t know if it was the peaceful atmosphere or just being in a place so rich with history, but I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. For the first time in a long time, I wasn’t rushing from one place to the next. I wasn’t thinking about deadlines, emails, or the next big project. I was just there, existing in the moment, taking in the calm. It reminded me why I left my job in the first place—to find clarity, to create space for myself to breathe, to live.

One of the highlights of my trip was the food. Jeonju is known for its bibimbap, and trust me, it didn’t disappoint. I sat in a cozy restaurant, eating slowly, tasting each ingredient like it was a new experience. After years of scarfing down lunch at my desk or during meetings, it felt incredible to simply enjoy a meal without any distractions.

As the sun started to set, I found myself at Omokdae Pavilion, overlooking the city. Sitting there, with the skyline of Jeonju in front of me, I reflected on everything that had led me to this point. Quitting my job wasn’t just about leaving behind a career—it was about returning to myself. The trip to Jeonju became symbolic of that journey.

Leaving the corporate world was hard, but stepping away gave me the freedom to rediscover who I am, what I want, and where I’m headed. Jeonju, with all its history and charm, reminded me that sometimes, slowing down is exactly what you need to move forward.

Here’s to more journeys like this—ones that aren’t about escaping, but about finding your way back.

—Na-ra