Embracing Life's Journey: From Clerk to Ultralight Aircraft Pilot

Everyone has a journey. Some of us choose to live in the comfort of our routines, while others are driven to explore the uncharted territories of life. My journey began in 1980 when I was a clerk, studying in the evenings, and diligently achieving my goals. This is the story of how I set and achieved important goals, and the lessons I learned along the way.

The Foundation of My Journey

Working as a clerk from Monday to Friday, I poured my evenings into preparing for a UK Technical Qualification. My weekends were filled with research, reading, and borrowing relevant books from the National Library. This discipline helped me achieve my academic goals. In recognition of my hard work, I received the Best Student award in SE Asia and was even offered a scholarship to the University of London for a BSC degree. This was a significant stepping stone in my journey, laying the foundation for future endeavors.

Acknowledging the Non-Ordinary

On my 49th birthday, sitting down with my wife over dinner, my mind began to wander. What did most people do, and what would I do differently? Most people went through the motions, attending dinner and going back home to mundane activities. But I refused to follow the typical path. I decided to create a 50-year-old bucket list, aiming to check off as many items as possible within a year. My first objective was to try a triathlon. I trained for six months and successfully completed the race without stopping. This was just the beginning of an adventurous journey that followed for five full seasons.

Discovering New Passions

My interests led me in unexpected directions. Always fascinated by the idea of offshore sailing, I placed an ad seeking a companion who was interested in the sport but lacked the financial means. In response to my ad, I received numerous email replies from potential crew members. I joined an offshore racing association and had the privilege of sailing with a retired orthopedic surgeon. Our conversations were filled with wisdom and joy. I realize now that my life has allowed me to constantly explore new passions and experiences.

Continuing My Journey

Currently in my 60's, I find myself with some furlough time and have the exciting opportunity to pursue ultralight aircraft flying. Since my 50th birthday, I have engaged in various adventures such as backpacking and hiking in Colorado, learning to play the bass, moonlighting in two bands, and even riding a motorcycle along the entire length of the Blue Ridge Parkway five times. Are you ordinary? Absolutely not. There is always a part of you that longs for a spontaneous and meaningful journey. This is your life, a journey and not a destination. Live it, enjoy it, live it intentionally, but also be spontaneous.

The Bottom Line

I firmly believe that life is a precious gift, and you should step out of your comfort zone to try something new. Be the star of your own show. Whether it is learning a new skill, travelling to a new place, or simply spending more time with loved ones, take the initiative to find your passion and purpose in life.

As you embark on your own journey, remember that meaning and purpose are often discovered along the way. Embrace change, explore the possibilities, and let your journey be defined by your willingness to dream and take risks.