The Results are In

Well, thank you to everyone that gave me their advice, opinions, and encouragement. It is much appreciated and while no one can make this decision for me, just hearing others' ideas was very helpful, for real. I always knew y'all had my back.

First of all, let's talk about one issue that many people mentioned… why the heck isn’t Seattle an option?!?

Well, to that I say, Seattle in many ways is home for me. My closest friends live in Seattle. I spent 5 amazing years at a great university building friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. Little old Kirkland, Washington will always have a piece of my heart. And yes, I do plan to return someday. But the time just ain't yet. I figure, while I have the chance to live in other countries and enjoy my singlehood, I might as well live away from home. And know that if I don't live in Seattle, I will always come and visit... especially since everyone and their momma is getting married. Dropping like flies, I tell ya. So, be not despaired, Seattleites, I'll be home soon. June to be exact. ;)

Now, on to JET stuff. I have decided to stay in Japan another year, for sure. I really would like to enjoy my time here fully and I would like to learn and improve my Japanese. For now, I have re-contracted with JET, playing defensively. If I find another job before July, I can back out without any penalty or damage to my school. They will have time to find a replacement for me if need be. So, because I was uncertain of my ability to find another position that I love, I re-contracted, will ride out these next 6 moths and keeping an eye out for other jobs.

If I find another job, I will obviously take it and live in Japan trying a new position. If I don't find another job, I will gladly stay on JET, work few hours, travel Asia, pay no rent and enjoy life. And... to help keep me motivated in my third year I will try some new things to prevent the mental emaciation that is often a result of JET.

These are the ideas floating around in my head, some of which I have researched and am currently pursuing, some are still just ideas without action.

1. Join the AJET National Council. This is an organization of JET volunteers who meet with government officials to improve the quality of life for current JETs and make improvements to this organization. There are many aspects of business involved in the council, so this could be a way for me to broaden my resume. Not only that, but AJET Council members get to travel to all orientations and meet JETs from around Japan. Despite it being a volunteer position I think it could be worthwhile and helpful in keeping me fresh and motivated.

2. Take courses at a Tokyo University. I am currently looking into Japanese classes, Catalan classes, history and tourism courses in Tokyo. This could be a great option, especially if I can work it out to take the classes in Japanese, allowing me to study Japanese and another subject at the same time. I would be working and earning a salary but still adding to my education.

3. Become a Tokyo tour guide. There are a few organizations that recruit foreigners or Japanese people to volunteer to guide tourists in Tokyo. I have no idea what the requirements are or if I would need to be certified in any way... but I think it could be a good stepping stone into the tourism industry if I want to head in that direction in Europe/US as a guide.

4. Be a better JET. Duh, obviously, there is more room for me to improve at school, so in my third year I would like to create even better lessons than I have taught in the past. I also think I could do a lot more in cultural exchange, creating more opportunities for outside of class interaction with students. I don't have to be lazy and mediocre at my job. It's always my choice to do more and grow in my work.

5. Pick up some new hobbies. I really want to learn shamisen, a Japanese instrument kinda like a guitar. I want to learn Japanese traditional dance. I want to pick up hula classes again. I want to run more. Travel more. Study Japanese more. Learn to cook Japanese dishes like a pro. And most importantly, have fun. Fortunately, JET is a no stress job. People are always saying they don't have enough time or money. I have both in this job and I should be seriously loving my life.

Well...that's that. And what's the best thing about me staying in Japan another year?! YOU having another year of chances to come and visit!!! Like the wisdom of an old TV show once said, “Come and knock on my door...I’ll be waiting for yoooooou!”