Mark Richards

Was Real estate agent
Now Kitesurfing instructor

‘At the beginning of the year, when the market was going flat, I decided to take a short break from my job in real estate and get an additional skill. So I went to the Caribbean for two months and became a qualified kitesurfing instructor. It was a blast; I was doing it for a bit of a laugh really, to teach my mates – I hadn’t thought of doing it as a job. Then, while I was away, my company closed down – I completely didn’t expect it. I’d actually just moved into a more expensive apartment. I was massively disappointed. It was a great company that had come over here from New Zealand. I still keep in touch with my old workmates. Some of them are working in IT, some of them haven’t got jobs, and some are working in real-estate with different companies.’

‘While I was between jobs I decided to start teaching kitesurfing, just as a side job while I get things sorted out. Right now I’m looking at a few different options for full-time jobs. I might go into golf, but I don’t know yet. Has my attitude changed as a result of losing my job? I think so. If anything has gone wrong before it’s generally been my own fault. Nothing has ever been out of my control. I guess it’s made me more cautious for the future.’
For lessons call 050 886 0874, email mark@goextremestore.com

Top tip: Find something you enjoy, then try to create an income from it to fill the gap