Turning Loss into Legacy

Why I Left Corporate Life to Follow My True North

Recently, I lost my job.

At first, it hit me hard — as these things always do. But once the dust settled, I realised something deeper: it wasn’t just an ending, it was a calling.

For years, I’ve felt increasingly worn down by the corporate world. The endless meetings, the posturing, and, most of all, the bullies — those who lead by fear instead of respect, who confuse authority with wisdom. I’d reached a point where I could no longer pretend that environment aligned with who I am or the values I live by.

I’m done with corporate bullies.

I’m done with systems that measure performance but not purpose.

And I’m done with trading my time for someone else’s vision when mine has been waiting patiently to be lived.

Finding Purpose in the Bush — and Beyond

My real passion has always been teaching.

Not the kind that happens in fluorescent classrooms or PowerPoint presentations, but the kind that happens under gum trees, beside a campfire, and in moments of shared discovery.

Through Everyday Bushcraft, I get to work with people of all ages — from wide-eyed kids learning their first knot, to adults rediscovering patience, teamwork, and confidence in themselves. We explore five timeless skills: Self-Aid, Knots, Shelter, Fire, and Water — but each is also a metaphor for life.

• Every spark we strike is a reminder that passion must be tended.

• Every shelter we build represents community and care.

• Every knot we tie teaches patience and connection.

• And every drop of clear water is a lesson in clarity and focus.

These moments remind me why I started this journey — and why I can’t turn back.

Living Covey’s Mantra

Stephen Covey once wrote that our purpose is “to live, to learn, to love, and to leave a legacy.”

That’s the compass I’m following now.

• Live: by being present in the world, in the bush, and in my community.

• Learn: by teaching others — because every lesson shared is a lesson reinforced.

• Leave a Legacy: by building something lasting, something that helps others find strength, calm, and confidence in both the wild and everyday life.

A New Chapter

Losing my job wasn’t a failure — it was freedom disguised as change.

It gave me permission to go all-in on what matters: empowering others to rediscover resilience, curiosity, and connection through hands-on learning.

So this is me — Gavin from Everyday Bushcraft — stepping out from behind the desk and into the sunlight.

Because the world doesn’t need more corporate ladders. It needs more compasses.