In the whirlwind of life’s twists and turns, my return home to Santa Barbara almost 4 years ago has been more of an unexpected adventure than a simple journey. The professional landscape I encountered upon my arrival has been nothing short of interesting, leading me to navigate through various work environments and situations. Reflecting on it now, it’s been quite a rollercoaster ride.
The job I am speaking about in this post I interviewed for I pursued amidst the chaos of packing up our apartment in Sierra Madre, nestled snugly next to Pasadena. I’ll delve into that story, along with others I’ve promised to share, once I’ve found my rhythm and consistency in translating the narratives swirling in my mind onto the blank canvas of my MacBook.
Returning to the tale at hand, First interview went great and I had secured a second interview and was essentially on the verge of clinching the job in the restaurant/hospitality industry. However, fate had other plans as the city began to shut down, rendering the company unable to onboard new hires.
While disappointing, I understood the circumstances and swiftly moved on to explore other opportunities. Yet, there was always a lingering thought in the back of my mind—the job that slipped through my fingers.
Despite encountering my fair share of shady employers and workplaces that flouted Covid protocols, I remained hopeful. One day, serendipity intervened as I stumbled upon the job posting for the very position I had once yearned for. It felt like a sign, and without hesitation, I submitted my application, fervently praying and consulting with my spirit guides for guidance.
I wasn’t unhappy where I was, I was bored and didn’t care for my supervisor, everyone else was lovely. It was by sheer chance I opened Indeed that day. And it disappeared instantly. I took that as a sign.
I won’t dwell on the shortcomings and negative experiences that followed, as I’ve since released that energy and embraced the power of moving forward. After giving it a solid six months, I made the conscious decision to prioritize my mental well-being and bid farewell to the toxicity that lingered in the air.
From the onset, it was evident that the dynamics of the workplace had shifted drastically since my initial encounter with it. With the key players gone and new forces at play, it was time to embark on a new chapter. And so, my journey of manifestation began anew, leading me to stumble upon my current path by sheer chance.
The opportunity that now lies before me feels like a perfect fit for where I am in life. It offers a sense of peace and tranquility, a stark contrast to the chaotic circus I left behind. As I navigate this fresh chapter, I’m already witnessing progress in other aspects of my life, signaling the dawn of a promising journey ahead.
While my new job offers the flexibility of remote work, I find solace in the pleasant office setting where I share a space with a delightful colleague. She exudes a calm demeanor, and our shared workspace provides the perfect balance between social interaction and the comforts of home. I intend to strike a harmonious blend of office days and remote work, allowing me the freedom to explore my surroundings while maintaining a productive routine.
Already, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my mental well-being. It’s incredible how much our environment impacts our overall health—mind, body, and spirit. I’ve taken to incorporating more walks into my daily routine, embracing the rejuvenating effects of movement. While I’ve mostly been one for traditional gym workouts, I’ve gradually begun to establish a home workout routine that suits my preferences.
Reflecting on my past gym experiences, I realize that unstructured workouts have never truly resonated with me. However, the one obsession I had—spin class. I vividly recall eagerly rising at dawn on Saturdays for a spirited spin session. It was an exercise I genuinely enjoyed. I even considered certification.
As I contemplate my future fitness endeavors, I find myself veering away from conventional gym memberships. Instead, I envision a space that offers a more holistic approach to wellness—perhaps a spa-like gym where relaxation and rejuvenation are paramount.
I fondly reminisce about a wellness center in Goleta, nestled within the Calle Real Shopping Center, where indulgent body wraps and innovative exercise machines offered a unique fitness experience. It was a place of sanctuary, where self-care took precedence. While my fitness journey may evolve, I’m certain that any future endeavors will prioritize holistic well-being and personal enjoyment.
As I sit here, reflecting on the weekend that’s drawing to a close, I find myself filled with a sense of contentment and anticipation for the week ahead. The rain-soaked days may have kept me indoors, but they provided a much-needed opportunity to pause and attend to the little things. While plans to visit Ellwood and spend time with my baby niece were postponed, I embraced the chance to tidy up my space and reconnect with neglected hobbies.
As April unfolds with its unpredictable weather, I welcome the prospect of an extra day off in May, heralding the beginning of the summer holiday season. Though our adventures may remain somewhat subdued, the absence of early morning alarms brings a sense of liberation.
Looking ahead, I anticipate diving into new work projects and immersing myself in an art endeavor that promises to infuse my evenings with creativity. With spring temperatures beckoning, I envision leisurely scooter rides on the horizon, each outing an opportunity to capture moments of beauty through the lens of my camera.
As the evening wanes and I prepare to bid farewell to the weekend, I find solace in the soothing melodies of a lofi meditation playlist. It’s in these tranquil moments that I visualize the future I aspire to, grateful for the blessings already bestowed upon me and confident in the path that lies ahead. Guided by the whispers of the spirits and fueled by a desire to spread light to those in need, I embrace each day as it unfolds, nurturing my soul along the way.
Until our paths intersect once more, I extend wishes of wellness and freedom to all.
~Kooky~
