Desire to leave everything behind reflects deeper needs

The desire to leave everything behind and change one's life may reflect deeper aspirations and a need for personal fulfillment, according to psychological research. This longing is often linked to a search for meaning and a more authentic version of oneself.

Study highlights misalignment between goals and self

A 2019 study published on ScienceDirect suggests that wanting to leave everything behind indicates a pursuit of goals that may not align with one's true self. The research distinguishes between intrinsic goals, driven by personal satisfaction and meaning, and extrinsic goals, motivated by external factors such as money, status, or recognition.

Regret linked to well-being and life satisfaction

This desire for change can also be fueled by a wish to avoid regret. A 2024 study published on Frontiers found a correlation between life regrets and well-being, noting that significant regrets are associated with negative effects on life satisfaction and increased depressive symptoms.

Experts recommend self-reflection for fulfillment

Experts suggest that reconnecting with oneself through practices such as mindfulness, identifying emotions, and distinguishing between deep desires and social expectations can help individuals address the underlying needs driving their desire to change their lives.