Rio de Janeiro: 33oC, sweltering hot, overcast and muggy.
I’m up at 5 am, hitting the streets before 5:30 am for exercise at the end of Leme by 6:15 am; I’m back home after a quick shower, a change of clothes, and a cup of tea before diving into my first class at 7 am.
This year marks the beginning of a new chapter, and classes are moving leisurely. Many of my students are either off on their holidays or prefer not to kickstart their academic year during the first working week of 2023.
When I’m not in the classroom, I’m hitting the courses. When I’m not immersed in my studies, I’m right back in teaching mode. This has been my life for the past 15 months.
My transformation journey began in August of the year before last when I decided to invest in self-improvement and explore fresh avenues for income-side hustles. I needed to find a way to sustain myself and those who depend on me in this ever-evolving world and marketplace.
I aimed to discover something that wouldn’t chain me down like my previous commitment to the school. For two decades, I ran a language school that received admiration from all quarters but nearly drained me physically, mentally and financially. And for what?
The process of reinventing oneself encompasses intellectual and spiritual dimensions, all grounded in one’s mindset. When one’s mindset evolves, everything around them naturally evolves and falls into place.
My change started with a simple decision to commit to a healthier morning exercise routine. I’ve always been an early riser due to the dogs. When I had the boxers, I had to cater to their needs before beginning my working day at the school. Now, it’s time to dedicate the early morning to myself.
This change began with simple daily exercises, indirectly leading to a clearer mind. A healthy body, a sound mind, and robust self-esteem go a long way! If I’m lucky, I will have to embark on an intellectual journey to stimulate my mind and prepare myself for the evolving work market of the next 15 years.
In a matter of days, I enrolled in my first online course, setting the stage for a new perspective. I’ve completed more than 12 courses, and there are one or two left to complete before the first half of the year.
After that, it’s time to put my newfound knowledge into action. Let’s see where it can take me!
On another note, during my recent year-end break, I began researching the “Estrada Real”, a path which involves a hike from Rio to Bahia, specifically Diamantina, then back to Ouro Preto, followed by a right turn to reach Paraty as the final destination, a total of more than 2000 km.
This idea has been lingering in my mind for some time now; I know people who have done it, and in some ways, it was a life-changing experience for them.
I plan to head to England in the latter part of the year, visit my mother, address some family matters, and possibly embark on this walk on my return. Again, the future is uncertain, but I’m excited to see where it leads.
Today was a productive day.
In bed by 9:30 pm.
Thank you.
Thank you for your unwavering support. Please explore more of my blog posts. I appreciate your thoughts and comments.
Richard
