Around June 2014 I came across a New Zealand guiding company’s website that said it was looking to hire canyoning guides. I learned somewhere that it was easy to get a work permit in New Zealand and Australia before you turn 31, and so at 29 I put together a resume of my pertinent skills and experience and contacted the owner. He replied and told me to come on over to Queenstown for some training before the season started in October. There was no guarantee of a job, but I knew right away what a great opportunity this was. So I gave notice to my work and a few months later my bags were packed. After some training and a couple runs in the local canyons to test my skills, I got the job. This tuned out to be one of the best decisions and experiences of my life. New Zealand is a gorgeous country. I met so many amazing people – a few who remain friends to this day – and the canyons there are world-class…and sooo cold. I think back on my time there often. So many great memories. Upending your life to make a drastic change can be a scary experience. Routines are comforting and make us feel safe. But we have an amazing ability to adapt, and while this decision took me out of my comfort zone for a while, I eventually adapted and got on with my life. It told me that things will eventually work themselves out, and that change and taking risks can be a powerful opportunity for growth.
