Navigating the Risks: My Chasing Hobbies and the Continuous Struggle

How often do you think about the inherent risks of your favorite hobbies or activities? For me, it's an everyday concern. I find myself constantly assessing potential dangers and planning for emergencies, especially in my more adventurous pursuits. From my hobby of woodcarving to target shooting, flying model airplanes, driving vintage cars, and sailing small boats, every activity carries its own set of risks. But let's delve into my personal story and explore how I navigate these challenges.

Woodcarving and Target Shooting: A Safe Love

Woodcarving and target shooting, although both inherently risky when done without proper safety measures, are hobbies I hold dear. For instance, when I venture out on a lake or river for fishing, and I bring my woodcarving set with me, I always carry a critical bleed class and a tourniquet. Similarly, when I go target shooting, I often find myself alone, making the safety measures even more crucial. I made sure to take a critical bleeding class and carry a tourniquet as a precautionary measure. The risks are always in the back of my mind, and I take them seriously through these safety supplies and careful planning.

Flying RC Planes: A Show of Concentration and Safeguarding

When I fly my RC planes, it’s all about the safety. There are a million things going through my head to ensure a safe flight and landing. I focus on several critical aspects:

Checking the aircraft thoroughly before flight. Planning a diversion airfield in case my destination is closed. Checking the weather and calculating the required fuel, with plenty of contingency fuel available. Regularly practicing for engine failure and other emergencies.

It's all about remembering the golden rule: “Piss Poor Planning Produces Poor Performance.” By meticulously considering all potential risks and preparing accordingly, I minimize the likelihood of anything going wrong.

Art and Graphic Design: A Risky Pursuit

Contrary to my adventurous and physically risky hobbies, my current passion is art and graphic design. This artistic side of me enjoys making mascots and logos, and just like any serious artist, I share my creations on social media. However, this newfound online presence has landed me in a tricky situation—it’s creating more risks than I initially anticipated.

I create and post designs, but every time I do, my information technology (IT) company starts to worry. They think I’m plotting to leave the company and join a rival design agency. This leads to awkward moments with HR, who can't help but ask if I’m happy in my current job. The assumption that because I can draw a cute panda mascot, I must want to design the new company flyer or revamp the logo for free is ridiculous. It’s a practice that feels more like being the Jim Halpert of art!

And let's not forget the endless cost of supplies—paint, sketchbooks, and software subscriptions. Every penny spent on these supplies feels like an open declaration of bankruptcy. It’s no wonder my bank account takes the brunt of it all.

Managing the Risks

Thinking about the risks associated with my hobby is a daily Dwight Schrute-level reality check. It's a constant struggle to balance the creative and fulfilling aspects of my art with the financial and professional challenges that come with it. Each day, I remind myself of the importance of balance and safety, whether I’m flying RC planes or creating digital art. The risks may be different, but the importance of preparing for them remains the same.

In conclusion, managing the risks in my hobbies is an ongoing process, requiring vigilance and preparation. Whether it’s dealing with the physical dangers of outdoor activities or the professional challenges of expressing my creativity, staying mindful of potential risks is crucial. It's a journey, and I continue to learn and adapt as I go.