Becoming Lost to Find Yourself
Abstract
When former British tabloid news editor Rachel O’Donoghue abruptly left a successful career to move to Israel, friends and acquaintances were puzzled. Superficially, the decision seemed driven by her partner’s relocation and the looming threat of COVID-19 lockdowns. However, her deeper motivation stemmed from a profound sense of stagnation and a desire for radical change. In Israel, devoid of job prospects, acquaintances, and language familiarity, she faced an environment that demanded introspection and resilience. This chapter reflects on her journey, highlighting the transformative impact of stepping away from comfort and embracing uncertainty. It explores how the move to Israel, under the pressures of a global pandemic, served as a catalyst for self-reinvention, challenging her to re-evaluate life’s direction and aspirations. Through this narrative, readers are invited to consider the broader implications of retirement as an opportunity for profound personal growth and the rediscovery of one’s true potential.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Migration
Aging
and Tourism Studies
Retirement
Disability
and Employment
Identity
Memory
and Therapy
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Routledge eBooks
- Pages
- 53–61
- Publication date
- 10 February 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Book chapter