Today we’d like to introduce you to Javiera Leal.
Hi Javiera, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
While I was studying at university in Chile, I was always interested in traveling and discovering other countries. So, I took a leap of faith—without knowing anything about Utah, I decided to do a winter exchange program in Park City, and I completely fell in love with the place.
Here, I’ve met many people who are in a similar situation—people looking for a change in their lives, eager to try something new. Utah has become a destination that helps fulfill those goals, offering a perfect blend of city life and nature, with countless attractions just a short drive away.
I currently work remotely and also enjoy creating content for social media, which allows me to keep traveling and exploring new places along the way.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I could say it’s been a smooth road, in the sense that throughout my life I’ve often found myself in places where I’ve felt at home. I think I’ve been lucky to meet the right people and to come across great opportunities along the way.
Emotionally, though, it’s been more of a rollercoaster. Like many people, I often find myself going through those existential crises: Should I try somewhere else? Should I move? Or should I stay right where I am? That constant thought of what if…? is always lingering, making me reevaluate my current situation.
If I had to name some of the struggles, I’d say it’s that feeling of loneliness that creeps in every now and then, or the sense that I could (or should) be doing more than I already am. It’s a bit of a battle with anxiety—this pressure that keeps you from fully enjoying the present moment.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I work as a lawyer at a firm that was founded by a friend from university. We’re a mostly women-led team, and we specialize in family law. Since it’s a remote job, it has given me the flexibility to also create content for social media and work with brands on a freelance basis.
What I love most about combining work with my hobbies—or the things I’m truly passionate about—is that it allows me to find a perfect balance between doing something I enjoy and earning a living from it.
To be honest, I never truly loved what I studied, but that path led me to where I am today: traveling the world and meeting incredible people along the way.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
What I love most about this city is how clean and organized it feels. I’m in love with the landscapes, the abundance of nature, and how much people care about protecting wildlife here. There are so many nearby attractions, and I absolutely enjoy the strong outdoor lifestyle that’s such a big part of the culture.
As for downsides, since I’m used to living in Latin American cities where restaurants and bars tend to stay open later, it’s been a bit of an adjustment getting used to things closing “early” here. I do miss that vibrant nightlife sometimes.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tiktok.com/@javslealy
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/javilealy/
