On October 2nd, 2022, I took the step to actually purchase this website.
On October 3rd, 2022, I was told I would likely be laid off in the coming weeks from my main day job.
I was sad at the news. Not because I loved my job, but because I was using it as a tool and a stepping stone for my real dreams and passions. I was irritated that my whole plan now needed to shift.
What was my plan?
My plan was to continue working my salaried day job for the secure income and the benefits. To continue working my side hustles as an independent contractor for extra income and to learn. To continue to partake in my hobbies and interests, to grow and soak up knowledge, all while slowly transitioning my lifestyle. I wanted the safe path to my dreams.
That Monday morning news pulled the rug right out from under my feet.
Some time has passed and it not longer seems that my job is immediately on the line, but nonetheless, my senses are heightened yet calmed. My initial panic and upset emotional response has now turned into one of quiet observation and lots of curiosity.
This event struck into me what I have always known to be true, yet somehow forgot: diversify.
Diversify your income.
Diversify your foods.
Diversify your hobbies.
Diversification is one of the best ways to be prepared for whatever life will throw at you. This scenario asked me to give more attention to my side hustles, to my budget, and ultimately to my dreams. What if I had actually lost my job, had no side hustles, no savings, and was debilitated by sadness? What then?
Thankfully that is not the case. I had diversified my income some, although I had not given it the attention it deserves.
And yet, my bones ache for a slower life – one full of intention, hard physical work, and contentment with the simple things. My mind told me I couldn’t have those things yet. First I had to work harder, for longer, make more money, save to buy acreage, and so on.
But I can have those things now. I can work hard AND live a life full of intention. I can have those moments where I slow down and breathe the mountain air and think of nothing else. I can keep my head down and work and toil to bring my dreams to fruition and still enjoy all the steps along the way. It is possible, and I know it because I am living it – right here and right now.
Preserving Appalachia 