When it comes to leaving Hollywood at the height of her career, Rachel McAdams explains why she has no regrets.

In the middle of the 2000s, Rachel McAdams became well-known for her roles in blockbusters like Mean Girls, Wedding Crashers, and The Notebook. But she decided to stop acting at the height of her success.

She explained her choice to leave Hollywood in a new interview with Bustle, describing how it made her feel “empowered.”

Two of McAdams’ most famous films were released in 2004: Allie in the romantic comedy The Notebook and Regina George in the comedic hit Mean Girls. But she was overwhelmed by her sudden leap to popularity.