He quit his job, left the city and went to live in the countryside far away from everything: "Here the times put them one"

Mauricio, a former worker at Fiat’s automobile factory, has quit his job, left the city, and moved to live in the countryside far away from everything. He described his new life as one where he sets the pace: “Here, the times are set by oneself.” His decision reflects a growing trend among individuals seeking a simpler, more autonomous lifestyle, often far removed from urban centers. Mauricio, 37 years old, made the choice to step away from the security of a dependent employment relationship and build a life of self-reliance in La Paz, Traslasierra, a region in Córdoba province known for its natural landscapes. Through an interview with the YouTube channel Crónicas del Cambio - De Música Rutera, he shared how he uses techniques such as adobe construction and bio-building methods to create a home in an area without access to water or electricity services. His journey represents a shift from the fast-paced rhythm of city life to a slower, more fulfilling existence centered around family well-being and personal autonomy. The turning point came after a motorcycle accident, which led him to sit on the sidewalk and reflect on his current way of living. “This is the city,” he said, describing it as chaotic and driven by constant movement. The incident prompted him to reconsider his priorities, especially after he had previously written down a goal to retire early at age 40, living in the country with peace and freedom. That dream became reality through his actions. Currently, Mauricio is in the process of building his house using the technique of quincha, a traditional method involving wood, straw, and clay. Despite lacking formal training in construction, he approaches the task with a mindset of continuous learning and resourcefulness. He explained that his focus is on utilizing natural materials and adapting to the environment rather than relying on external infrastructure. To manage daily needs, he relies on rainwater collection systems. He constructed a drainage system to store the collected water, emphasizing the importance of sustainability in his new lifestyle. Additionally, his home is powered by a small solar panel, highlighting his commitment to renewable energy sources. Interestingly, his initial project was a clay oven, which he built before constructing the walls of his house. This oven serves as both a practical tool and a symbol of his dedication to self-sufficiency. Mauricio admitted that leaving behind a stable job was initially daunting, but he found comfort in the idea of being free from the pressures of employment. “Not having a fixed job gives you the freedom to do what you want,” he said. To support himself, he relies on his skills in gardening, cooking, and repairs, believing that these abilities allow him to earn a living without depending on traditional employment structures. He views fear as a potential obstacle but also as a motivator. “If you have fear, it holds you back, but if you push past it, you can move forward,” he explained. For him, overcoming fear means embracing change and taking initiative. He emphasized that this transition is not merely about housing, it’s about improving quality of life and setting an example for his three children. His ultimate aim is to enjoy life more fully, spending quality time with his family. “We live so fast and forget to breathe,” he reflected. In the end, he reaffirmed that his path, though challenging, is exactly what he wants. “All the steps I took brought me here, and this is what I desire,” he concluded.