Skip to content

Leaving Your Coveted Job: An Unconventional Path to Change (Case in Point: Pro Surfing)

Leaving Your Dream Job, Even in Pro-Surfing, Can Bring Quite a Shift

Embracing the Unconventional: The Transformative Impact of Leaving Your Dream Job (Including...
Embracing the Unconventional: The Transformative Impact of Leaving Your Dream Job (Including Pro-Surfing)

Leaving Your Coveted Job: An Unconventional Path to Change (Case in Point: Pro Surfing)

Jon Rose, a seasoned former pro surfer, ventures beyond the waves and into the realm of social activism. He's the genius behind Waves for Water, a non-profit organization dedicated to delivering clean water solutions to those in need. Dive into his journey at www.wavesforwater.org.

September 2009 found Jon aboard a boat off the Sumatran coast. Feeling a slight tremor, he had no idea a devastating 7.6-magnitude earthquake had leveled Padang, leaving over 1,000 lives shattered and 100,000 homeless. It wasn't until he reached shore and witnessed the devastation that the full scale of the disaster hit home.

On route to Bali for his first mission with Waves for Water, Jon made a detour to Padang. Armed with water filters, he equipped rescue workers to help those in desperate need of clean water. This pivotal moment marked the true beginnings of Waves for Water.

His transformation from a self-centered pro surfer to a socially responsible entrepreneur was a learning process. While brimming with youth, talent, money, and fervor, Jon's fame was unchecked. But travels through Indonesia, South Africa, Brazil, and other so-called ‘developing countries’ exposed a common need: clean drinking water.

This revelation led to deeper reflection. Jon's father was already involved in providing clean water to children worldwide through Rain Catcher. Inspired, Jon deemed it his mission to replicate the same impact on a global scale. Waves for Water was born.

The organization adopts a ‘special ops’ approach to delivering urgent relief in disaster-stricken areas, coined as ‘guerilla humanitarianism.’ In addition, Jon developed the Clean Water Courier program. Through this innovative initiative, travelers can purchase and deliver filters to destinations globally, fostering cultural exchange while addressing water-related issues.

Jon's experiences have significantly enriched his travels, enabling him to connect with communities on a deeper level. His passion for fun and social good has led to prolonged success and a broader perspective on life.

Myths about combating global challenges like clean water access persist: one person can't make a difference. Yet, the reality contrasts sharply. One water filter provides clean water for 100 people for five-plus years. With collective action, one individual can bring about profound change. Don't let the misconception of powerlessness hinder you – everyone can contribute in their unique way.

Jon's advice is simple: live for your own happiness and follow your passions. Then, integrate social good into your journey by helping others alongside. The notion of self-sacrifice is obsolete; instead, embrace the fun and fulfillment that uplifting others can bring.

In his youth, Jon's father instilled in him the importance of fun. "If you're not having fun, then why are you doing it?" His father would ask. Over time, Jon discovered that having fun and making a difference could be one and the same pursuit.

  1. Jon's experience in Padang during the earthquake led to a realization about the importance of good mental health, as he noticed how the lack of clean water affected the locals' overall well-being.
  2. Waves for Water's 'Clean Water Courier' program encourages social interaction between travelers, promoting good mental health through cultural exchange while addressing water-related issues.
  3. Jon believes that integrating social good into one's life doesn't mean sacrificing happiness; in fact, it can bring even more fun and fulfillment.
  4. His father's advice to live for happiness and fun, and to do what one loves, inspired Jon to translate his surfing passion into a mission for improving mental health and clean water access around the world.

Read also:

    Comments

    Latest