The Summer Is Over

The kids are heading back to school next week. I can’t believe summer is almost over. Then again, summer is no longer my favorite season. I can’t wait for the winter to arrive so I can get back to the terrains. I am looking forward to teaching snowboarding again for the second season.

Applying for the snowboarding instructor position was one of the decisions I was glad I made last year. I took the job to pay for the seasonal passes for me and my family, but I gained more than that at the end of the season. I had a chance to work with the people who are as passionate at skiing and snowboarding as I was. We were there because we loved these winter sports. I had the opportunities to train with some of the awesome skiers and snowboarders. Through teaching, I got a chance to meet new people and improve my communication skills. Furthermore, I was a part of a large network of Epic employees. We looked out for each other. When I needed equipment, even for my family members, the rental folks had my back. The cook behind the grill knew that I was “the instructor who liked bacon with his veggie burger.”

I came into these winter sports way too late, but they changed my life. They gave me something to look forward to each season. When I was on the terrains, I left all my worries behind. Skiing and snowboarding have been great for both my physical and mental health. I had never been gifted at any sports, but I knew I could improve if I worked hard. That has always been my approach to life. I don’t compete or compare with others. I just focus on improving myself. That’s my self-care!