Lily James on Burnout and Finding Inspiration Abroad

Actress Lily James has spoken about experiencing profound burnout before embarking on an extended solo trip, an experience she credits with helping her regain her passion for acting. James, 37, revealed that after working consistently since she was 21, she felt she was "losing the joy and losing that kind of fire."

To counteract this, she took an eight-month hiatus, embarking on an adventure in Cambodia. During this period, James dedicated five weeks to volunteer with NGOs including Heartprint, Safe Haven, and UNICEF, describing the work as "mind-blowing and meaningful."

"I've worked pretty consistently since I was 21, and I was beginning to just feel so even beyond burned out," James told Flaunt magazine. "I was scared I was losing the joy and losing that kind of fire. I really had to be honest with myself. I've had an incredible time [going on] different kinds of adventures, owning my time, and taking the reins back of my life."

She further explained the necessity of recharging, stating, "You have to recharge. I think going from one job to the next, not only was I feeling like I wasn't recharging or finding new sources of inspiration, but also blink, and you've missed a year."

James shared her experience with the NGO Heartprint on Instagram, highlighting their work in building homes, providing education and clean water, and establishing safe community hubs for children in need. She noted their efforts in installing the first free public playgrounds in Siem Reap.

"Their joy and passion was limitless and deeply grounding. I felt moved and inspired by their holistic approach to charity and spending time at the community with the children has left a true impression on my heart," she wrote, quoting the NGO's motto: “Never believe that a few caring people can’t change the world, for indeed, that’s all who ever have.”

Now back and preparing to re-enter the acting world, James described the adjustment as "uncomfortable" but ultimately a "relief" as she has "found love again" for her craft. She is currently focused on shifting back into her professional life in London.

James has several projects slated for release, including the horror thriller "Seasons" for Amazon Studios, the action thriller "Cliffhanger," the mystery drama "Harmonia," and the animated comedy "The Angry Birds Movie 3."

During her time away from the camera, she also took a "dream" Spanish getaway with friend Billie Piper and was romantically linked to musician Alex Cameron and stuntman Bobby Holland Hanton. Reflecting on romance in a previous interview, James commented that societal expectations of a singular, life-defining romance are often unrealistic.