Why she quit her finance job to become a farmer, exploring a different path from the modern life - Misty Arnold - The Data Scientist Show #074
Nov 29, 2023
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Former finance professional, Misty Arnold, discusses her decision to quit her job and become a farmer. She shares her experience transitioning from the corporate world to farm life, achieving financial sustainability, and embracing uncertainty. Misty reflects on the collaborative nature of her job, handling stress, and making connections in her new community. She debunks misconceptions about farming and highlights the convenience of modern farms. Misty encourages others to save money before pursuing a different path and allowing enough time to adjust to a new way of living.
Leaving a successful finance career for a farm life brought Misty fulfillment, purpose, and a stronger sense of community.
Transitioning to a farm requires embracing uncertainty, reflecting on desires, and minimizing financial obligations for a smoother transition.
By simplifying her life and embracing nature, Misty found deeper connections and a more meaningful way of living.
Deep dives
Making a Career Change: Leaving the Corporate World for a Farm Life
Misty, a former finance director, shares her inspiring journey of leaving her successful career and buying a farm in Portugal. Despite initial fears and insecurity, she realized that money did not bring fulfillment, leading her to search for a new path. After traveling and exploring different volunteer experiences, Misty discovered her passion for farming. She now lives a sustainable and connected life, growing her own food, fostering trade relationships with neighbors, and prioritizing community over consumerism. Misty encourages others to embrace change, take time to reflect, and consider unconventional paths to find happiness and purpose.
The Challenges of Transitioning to a Farm Life
Transitioning from a busy corporate life to a farm presented Misty with challenges and uncertainties. However, she did not let fear hold her back. Misty reveals the importance of not rushing into decisions and embracing insecurity. She emphasizes the need to evaluate one's desires and take the time to reflect on what truly brings fulfillment. Misty also highlights the importance of minimizing debts and financial obligations to facilitate a smoother transition. Despite the initial struggles, Misty's newfound farm life has provided her with a sense of purpose, creativity, and fulfillment.
Finding Meaning and Community in a Farming Lifestyle
Misty's transition to farm life allowed her to find fulfillment and joy in simplicity. She highlights the value of being connected to nature and living a purposeful life. By growing her own food, fostering trade relationships with neighbors, and engaging in volunteer work through platforms like Workaway, Misty has created a sense of community and deeper connections. She emphasizes the importance of building genuine relationships with others and moving away from a life centered around consumerism. Misty's journey serves as an inspiration for those seeking a different path and a more meaningful way of living.
The Importance of Making Informed Decisions
One of the main ideas discussed in the podcast is the importance of making informed decisions, particularly in regards to rolling out a product from an accounting perspective. The speaker emphasizes that it is crucial to account for the cost and implications of offering a free product, as nothing is truly free. They highlight the need for collaboration and advice from various departments such as marketing and legal to ensure an informed decision-making process.
Reevaluating Success and Finding Fulfillment
Another key point discussed is the speaker's personal journey in reevaluating the pursuit of corporate success and finding true fulfillment. They share their realization that chasing promotions and accumulating wealth does not guarantee happiness or fulfillment. The importance of finding balance, redefining success, and considering the psychological safety provided by financial stability is also highlighted. The speaker reflects on the need to challenge societal norms and find abundance beyond monetary measures.
My friend Misty moved to a farm in Portugal after her 20 years of career in finance. We talked about her experience moving from the busy corporate life to the farm life where she does a lot of manual work. Was it challenging, how does her finance work, and what is her advice to other people who also want to explore a different path outside of the modern city life. I hope this episode will give you a different perspective about your career.
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Daliana’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dalianaliu/
(00:00:00) Introduction
(00:11:41) Life on the farm
(00:15:46) Her finance plans
(00:22:55) Her career journey
(00:27:14) What do accountants do
(00:32:29) I thought I would be happy
(00:41:25) Daliana's personal view about finance; when it's enough for you
(00:44:41) Does she feel lonely on a farm?
(00:48:39) What if she didn't leave the corporate world?
(00:54:07) Does she regret her decision
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