Riding the Wave of Corporate Success
For years, I enjoyed a thriving career marked by significant achievements. The stages I spoke on were grand, the applause was consistent, and accolades seemed to accumulate endlessly. My passion for enhancing workplace experiences and corporate culture earned me the title of “Mr. Employee Experience,” propelling me into international speaking engagements and high-profile boardrooms.
The Pinnacle of Recognition
In 2021, I reached a pivotal moment in my career when I was recognized by Thinkers50, often referred to as the “Oscars of Management Thinking” by The Financial Times. Named one of the world’s top emerging management thinkers, I felt I had finally broken through in the realm of human resources. I was also noted as one of HR’s Most Influential Thinkers during a prestigious ceremony held at St. Paul’s Cathedral in London.
Confronting an Unexpected Realization
Despite these accolades, I was overshadowed by a profound feeling of uncertainty. I embraced this feeling rather than dismissing it, wondering if this was truly the culmination of my journey. It wasn’t burnout; rather, I felt I had outgrown my own narrative—my career had reached a point where I needed a significant change.
Redefining Freedom
This realization prompted me to dismantle my established life. I relinquished my job and apartment in 2017, donated my professional attire, and let go of possessions I once believed were essential. In 2018, I launched my own business, aiming to discover my true self beyond conventional symbols of success.
The Emergence of a Nomadic Lifestyle
The shift to a nomadic lifestyle felt like a leap into the unknown—free from boardrooms and agendas. I began to work remotely, often in places where Wi-Fi was scarce. This new life emphasized the values of freedom, adventure, and community, reshaping my daily routine into a balance of work, meditation, exercise, and enjoyment of nature.
A Deeper Connection to Humanity
As I embraced my new way of living, I rediscovered an appreciation for genuine human connections and the beauty of life itself. Experiences like sitting atop a mountain brought a sense of peace that had eluded me for years. My connection to nature flourished, leading to profound questions about the human experience and the role of employee engagement in the workplace.
Integrating Past with Present
Importantly, I found that I hadn’t abandoned my purpose; I had simply redefined how to express it. Continuing my mission of fostering positive employee experiences, I shifted my focus to impactful speeches and coaching rather than the confines of the traditional workday. This newfound flexibility allowed me to fully engage with the richness of life while providing value in my field.
A Fulfilling Journey Ahead
Today, I navigate between Wales, England, and France in my van, often embracing a variety of nomadic living arrangements like hammock camping in warmer weather. The accolades of my past are overshadowed by the richness of living authentically on my own terms. My journey has led me to realize that true fulfillment lies in the freedom to enjoy life and cultivate meaningful experiences.
Ben Whitter is the author of the acclaimed Employee Experience trilogy, with works published in 2019, 2021, and 2023. His insights into employee experience (EX) have been featured in The Times, The Telegraph, BBC, Forbes, and The Economist. Recognized for his pioneering research, Ben shares his expertise through executive coaching.
All views expressed are the author’s own.
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The Journey to Freedom: Reimagining Success
Exploring the balance between professional achievements and personal fulfilment.
Corporate Climb and the Weight of Expectation
For years, I enjoyed the thrill of corporate success, standing on grand stages while receiving accolades from peers and critics alike. My focus on workplace experience and corporate culture earned me recognition as a leading figure in my field. This title propelled me into international arenas, where my ideas and insights on employee experience gained a widespread audience.
A Moment of Reckoning
Despite the external successes and recognition—including notable honors from prestigious organizations—internally I faced a profound realization. During one of the peak years of my career, I encountered an unexpected turning point that made me question my true aspirations. The titles and accolades felt hollow, and I began to ponder whether I had outgrown my own narrative.
Embracing Change
Recognizing that I needed to break free from the intense structure of my career, I embarked on a significant life transformation. I made the bold decision to leave my job, relinquish material possessions, and pursue a life that prioritized freedom and exploration. This moment marked the beginning of my journey to discover my authentic self beyond corporate labels.
Finding New Horizons
My transition to a nomadic lifestyle felt exhilarating yet daunting. Without the confines of office walls, I began working from picturesque locations, immersing myself in nature. Each day became an adventure filled with activities that fostered both personal growth and professional development. I dedicated my time to creating impactful content on employee and human experience, combining work with travel.
Rediscovering True Connection
In this newfound freedom, I connected deeply with the beauty of life and unfiltered human interactions. Mountain tops and serene landscapes became my offices, providing clarity and joy in a way I had never experienced before. This connection to nature enabled me to redefine my purpose and the impact I wanted to have on the world.
Redefining Success
Leaving behind a rigid professional trajectory was not an abandonment of success; instead, it allowed me to redefine what success meant for me. I transitioned away from the relentless pursuit of accolades to embrace a life rich in experiences and personal satisfaction. This holistic approach allowed me to blend my past achievements with a fulfilling, nomadic lifestyle.
A New Path Forward
Currently, I continue to grow professionally while moving between various countries, finding joy in the simplicity of a nomadic existence. The accolades may have faded, but I uncovered a deeper richness in the ability to live life on my own terms. Embracing the freedom to explore has enhanced both my personal and professional impact.
