Stephen, your decision to leave academia appears to be a well-considered recalibration rather than a retreat. In essence, you've chosen to conserve what's most valuable to you—your health and well-being—over continuing in an unsustainable situation.

Reading between the lines, it seems you've followed age-old wisdom: understanding the terrain you're navigating and choosing the most opportune moments to act. This subtle yet profound shift in focus—from a challenging professional environment to your own personal growth and wellness—may be more valuable than any position or title.

By stepping away, you've not only closed one door but potentially opened many others. And in doing so, you've retained the most potent tool anyone has—the control over your own story. Sometimes the boldest move is to walk away from a conflict that drains more than it gives. Wishing you the best in your next endeavors.