Episode 31 The one where he’s finally left his job: and has a (mild) panic attack

The LivingVertical Podcast with Stephen Richert | LivingVertical.org | Type 1 diabetes | Ketogenic (Low Carb, High Fat) Diet | Adventure | Inspiration

In the Episode 30 you heard a frank discussion of finances when the security of employment was almost gone. Now, that bridge has been crossed and on the other side comes a feeling of exposure–questioning the decisions that led us here. Was this a good idea–or the opposite of that? Thankfully, I got some input from someone who’s been there before; Carter Clark (that’s one of her photos above)–and this episode is part one of two. She put my mind at–not ease exactly, but something more tolerable than the panic attack I had been experiencing before we discussed how she has managed to visit more than 23 countries in the last year, enjoying climbing, backpacking and living on a shoestring. Did I mention that she’s had type 1 diabetes since the 90’s and totally could relate to my situation?

I need all the inspiration I can get right now and this conversation hit the nail on the head. It’s so easy to accept the limitations of diabetes–not just the high and low blood sugars–but the knowledge that we are dependent from a social and medical standpoint. It’s a very human need to feel free and when your physiology prevents that you must go to great lengths to regain that feeling. I am realizing through these conversations that it’s always a struggle to stay moving and to stay present in the moment–not slowing down to let fear overtake the decision making process.

A few of the points that I found to be the most compelling in this discussion:

• The impact that family and friends support makes on decisions to live adventurously.
• Taking jobs you may not love to earn freedom down the road.
• Being scrappy and using techniques like rationing and stockpiling insulin and supplies.
• Bending the fabric of time through frequent relocation (slightly deep philosophical tangent!)
• Sacrifices of living “on the go”
• Establishing an “independent contractor” or entrepreneurial mindset

A few additional points :

• Does your support, word of mouth/social sharing, feedback and communication matter? YES! You are what makes this podcast tick!
• Join us for the AdventureRx meetup on Halloween at the Red River Gorge in Kentucky–its free!
• Next episode is more from Carter and less of my blathering–make sure you subscribe on iTunes!

Music for the Adventure Rx podcast was graciously provided by our friends Pattern–I can’t recommend their albums highly enough! If you would like to download their albums and thank them for their contribution to our work click here >> Support Pattern because their music is AMAZING!<<

Support LivingVertical by purchasing one of my photographs:

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LivingVertical thrives because of YOU. I (Steve) personally appreciate the fact that you are part of our growing community of active and adventurous people with diabetes. I will be offering diabetes coaching services beginning October 1st–for people who are looking to improve their lifestyle, diabetes control, goal setting and adapt their management to unique, active pursuits. Email me for more info [e-mail]!