For most people, the idea of dividing life across three countries might seem chaotic or even unsustainable. But for Mário Neves, entrepreneur, writer, investor, and a self-proclaimed global citizen, it’s not just a lifestyle. It’s a carefully crafted philosophy.
Mário has spent years splitting his time between three distinct locations, never staying in one country for more than six months. Each place serves a specific purpose: one for business, one for family, and one for personal reinvention.
“I’ve designed my life this way because it keeps me balanced,” Mário explains. “Each country fulfills a different need: professional growth, connection with loved ones, and the space to rediscover myself.”
A Life Built Around Purpose
Mário’s journey began in Portugal, where he was brought up with strong family values and morals. But as he entered adulthood, he realized that the conventional idea of settling in one place didn’t resonate with him.
“I’ve always felt that tying yourself to one location limits your perspective,” he says. “I wanted to create a life that allowed me to grow in multiple dimensions.”
Over time, Mário established a rhythm that revolves around three key locations. For six months of the year, he immerses himself in the fast-paced world of business in cities like Miami or Mexico City. “These are places where I can focus on my work with absolute intensity,” he explains. “The energy is unmatched; it pushes me to be at my best.”
The next part of his year is spent at home in Portugal with his family. “This is where I reconnect with my roots,” Mário says. “It’s grounding and my family keeps me inspired.”
Finally, he dedicates the remaining time to personal reinvention in destinations in which he focuses on health and self-mastery in places like Cancun or Rio De Janeiro.
“Self-improvement is essential to me,” he says. “It’s about stepping out of my comfort zone and becoming the best version of myself.”
Avoiding Stagnation
For Mário, the decision to move every six months isn’t just about exploration; it’s also about avoiding what he calls “the trap of comfort.” He believes that staying in one place for too long can lead to intellectual and emotional stagnation.
“When you’re too comfortable, you stop questioning things,” he explains. “You stop challenging yourself. Moving forces me to adapt constantly, to learn new languages, navigate unfamiliar systems, and build connections from scratch. It keeps me sharp.”
This mindset extends to his professional life as well.
As the founder of Sohl Ventures, a private equity firm with investments across multiple industries in 4 countries, Mário has built his career on adaptability and innovation, qualities he attributes directly to his nomadic lifestyle. “The ability to think on your feet is invaluable in business,” he says. “And nothing trains you for that better than living in unfamiliar environments.”
The Critics Weigh In
Of course, not everyone is impressed by Mário’s lifestyle. Critics argue that his constant movement lacks depth, that by never staying in one place long enough to truly embed himself in a community, he misses out on meaningful connections and stability.
Mário is quick to counter this argument. “I think people underestimate how deeply you can connect with others when you’re open and present,” he says. “Some of my closest friendships were formed during short stays in different countries. It’s not about how long you’re there; it’s about how intentional you are with your time.”
He also dismisses the idea that his lifestyle is irresponsible or shallow. “There’s this misconception that traveling means running away from something,” he says. “For me, it’s the opposite. I’m running toward something: knowledge, growth, understanding.”
The Global Citizen Ideal
Mário sees himself as part of a growing movement of global citizens, people who view national borders as arbitrary lines rather than defining limits. For him, living internationally isn’t just a personal choice; it’s a way of embodying a broader philosophy about humanity’s interconnectedness.
“We live in an age where we’re more connected than ever before,” he says. “Why should we limit ourselves to one country when we have access to so much of the world? By living globally, I’m constantly reminded that we’re all part of something bigger.”
What’s Next for Mário?
As Mário continues his journey across his three chosen hubs, he remains committed to refining his approach and inspiring others along the way. Whether it’s through his business ventures, time spent with family, or moments of quiet reinvention abroad, every six months marks the beginning of a new chapter.
“People often ask if I’ll ever settle down permanently,” Mário says with a smile. “But why would I? This rhythm works for me, it keeps me growing and evolving.”
Whether you envy his freedom or question his choices, there’s no denying that Mário Neves lives life on his own terms. A perpetual traveller who refuses to let borders define him or stagnation hold him back.
For him, every six months marks not an end but a new beginning. A chance to rediscover himself and the world all over again.
