Even though things have been going relatively well for me as of late, every now and then I veer off course and find myself in a situation that reminds me of how truly important it is for me to stay balanced, focused, and healthy.

Although having the ability to recognize warning signs and being equipped with the tools to remain motivated has made staying on track a lot easier than it once was… it would be unrealistic of me to believe that this rusted tool box and the odd glimpse of a distress-flag here and there would render me capable of navigating the remainder of this lifetime without tip-toeing atop a landmine…

But… my goal has never been to extinguish these unexpected setbacks from my life, yet to keep them exactly that, unexpected.

Walk on.

After a few weeks of job-hunting and the impending doom of working at a call center, I am fortunate enough to have landed a position I actually enjoy.

For roughly the past two weeks I have been working as the ‘Head Boxing and Muay Thai Instructor’ at Premier Fitness (a title much more sophisticated than what it entails.) For roughly eight hours a day, six days a week, I offer the fundamentals of Boxing and Muay Thai in a variety of different fashions. I run group demonstrations, fitness classes, and one-on-one private sessions… and as far as my existence at work is concerned, I couldn’t be more comfortable.

Being able to watch people grow and develop is an incredibly rewarding experience… being able to witness the outward projection of ones inner self and the evolution of a healthier, more determined, embodiment of this being transcends any amount of financial compensation. 
                                                                                                                                                                                 

And although having an income may open a lot of doors for me in terms of my social life, it is safe to say that the numbers in my bank account wont be lost on fancy new outfits or a cell phone that doesn’t resemble a brick in my pocket…. I am fully aware of what I need, what I don’t, and what I want to save for. And although I am a notoriously stingy person (buying shoes is a big deal for me), you won’t catch me saving up for a ‘staycation’ any time soon. 
                                                                                                                                                                                                                          

Every dollar that isn’t being put towards groceries, rent, or the remainder of my student debt will be put towards my next excursion. I made a promise to balance responsibility and wanderlust and I intend to keep it. 

There is no doubt in my mind that being employed has given me a new sense of self-worth and direction. However, it has also made it increasingly difficult for me to maintain a number of the great friendships that I was able to foster while living as a jobless ‘internet junkie’.

 

Don’t worry… I will get on it.

Some time this summer I will be heading back to LA to hang out with friends, catch some waves, and create even more memories that will last me a lifetime. But for now… I will work, I will save, and I will try my best to stay on track.

PS Here are a few pictures of my ‘studio’. The walls are a little bare right now but thanks to Hayabusa and my Long time sponsor Pitchfork Hardwear I am hoping to bring a little life to the place.