The What and the Why
I'm Dustin and thanks for visiting The Kook Jester Show. Part career advice, part how-to guide, the show rests on this idea - 'Acknowledging the kook within is one giant step towards 'above-averageness'. In other words, our weirdness and quirks provide clues as to what our purpose on this planet might be. And, just as life changes, our purpose can too. Our eclectic roster of guests share stories about risks taken, 'stadium' moments, and why they do what they do. Have a Listen!
For all the young people in my life, The Kook Jester Show is for you. And whether you're starting out or starting over, check out an episode or two. You might find the nugget of wisdom you're seeking.
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To steal a phrase - in aiming for point B from A, you sometimes end up at point K or, even, Q. Yes, destination and direction are important, but a worthwhile journey goes everywhere but in a straight line. There are off-shoots, tangents, and moments when we are hopelessly lost. Try things. Explore your curiosity. Take chances and risks. Be a kook!
Looking back, I should have thought deeper about my goals, ambitions, or overall purpose than I did. Truth be told, time isn't readily available for such an introspection, or even encouraged when young. Young people are herded off to university, where one earns a credential or two, and then you right into the busyness of life. In other words, grow-up. When I looked around, everyone appeared to know with certainty what their selected vocation was, a certainty I didn't share. My search continues. The Kook Jester Show is one more stop on this journey.
Pressure over school and career have seemingly intensified. Young people are given only briefest window to discover a purpose. In a world burning productivity and growth, what we do appears more valuable than why we chose that path in the first place. Big life decisions made under deadline, while not immediately apparent, can lead to disillusionment later on.
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I think, rightly or wrongly, our purpose remains hidden unless we are willing to be or look somewhat kooky. Out in the world, kooks get a bad rap. However, embracing what is kooky is key to 'above-averageness' (see Hello and Welcome section) and finding what we are good at. Regardless of your present skills, ability, or situation, part of being a kook means you're willing to absolutely suck–aka learn–in order to figure out what it is. Public opinion be damned! Every vocation has a kook phase: heart surgeons, musicians, artist, and, especially surfers. Kook-time is good time. When your wheels are their wobbliest, you're learning who you are and what's important to you.
Turn away from the safe harbours of Point A. Shoot for B. Rest at J or R, and keep on going.
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Special Thanks!
To The Midnight Ghost Train for permission to use 'Tom's Trip' (Buffalo, 2012) on the intro track.
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