Chapter 1: The Quest for Identity

At 35, I still grapple with the question of who I want to be when I "grow up." A significant hurdle lies in my lack of self-awareness. To figure out my future, I first need to understand myself.

I do have clarity on what I don’t wish to pursue.

Being a bartender: While I enjoyed the experience and believe everyone should try working in a bar for the communication skills it fosters, it’s not a long-term career path for me. The sight of a line forming outside the bar at 10 AM is quintessentially British, yet it doesn’t resonate with my goals.

Working in a call center: That’s a hard pass. My time in the Debt Department involved dealing with individuals who struggled with substantial bills. While some genuinely faced financial hardships, many were simply unwilling to pay. This experience has made me more empathetic towards those in such roles, reminding me that they are just people too. Please, if you use a service, pay for it.

Being a nurse, especially in oncology and research: This has been the bulk of my career for twelve years. Despite my satisfaction in making a positive impact, I often didn’t see myself as a nurse. There were moments of profound privilege, like being present for someone during their last moments. However, the emotional toll has led to burnout, forcing me to reevaluate my identity.

Thus, I know what I want to avoid professionally. Thanks to my academic success, particularly in my degree, I have options. I’ve been accepted into teacher training at university, which I believe aligns well with my skills and passions.

I’m nearly certain that teaching is the right path for me. However, I view it as a stepping stone rather than a lifelong commitment; if it brings me joy for the next decade, that’s a significant win. At 45, I can always pivot again if necessary.

Writing my "About Me" stories has been enlightening, allowing me to focus inward and explore who I truly am.

Section 1.1: Embracing Teaching

I have a genuine fondness for being around children, as demonstrated by my volunteer work coaching a football team. It’s the highlight of my week. Teaching has always been an aspect of my roles that I enjoyed, whether mentoring new staff, educating students, or guiding patients. I have a passion for science, and I believe I can effectively simplify complex concepts for those with little background knowledge. I also possess the patience required to manage a lively classroom.

Chapter 2: Writing as Therapy

Writing has always lingered in my thoughts as a potential career. If I could turn it into a successful side hustle to alleviate my financial burdens, it would solve many problems. However, that seems unlikely. Again, I face the dual pressures of emotional satisfaction versus financial security.

For me, writing has transcended mere career aspirations. Any monetary gain is a bonus; what truly matters is the therapeutic release it provides. It’s been the most healing endeavor I’ve undertaken, helping me understand my emotional and mental well-being.

Through writing, I’ve come to recognize my multifaceted identity:

• I’m a bartender, a call handler, a nurse.
• I’m a husband, a father, a football coach, a writer.
• I’m Welsh, I’m British.
• I experience depression, happiness, and everything in between.

I am both lost and found, a vessel navigating calm and stormy seas. I encompass complexity and simplicity, caught between past and future, often forgetting to live in the present.

Now, I’m finally interpreting the signs of my existence. I’m a teacher, a mental health survivor, an advocate, and a person continually evolving. I’m learning, making mistakes, and embracing awareness.

I am Rhys.

Writing has enriched my life immeasurably. While I cannot predict what lies ahead, I know that without writing, I am less than my full potential. Regardless of where my career leads, I must continue to write, using it as a healing outlet.

I am Rhys, and I will be a teacher.

I am Rhys, and I am a writer.

Discover more about Rhys's journey and his reflections on life in this engaging video titled "About Me."

Join Rhys as he shares his first words in this heartfelt interview, offering insights into his career and aspirations.