So I have a whole slew of unfinished posts about Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, yoga, food, and adjusting to life back in DC. But the big news for now is that I am back to the 9-5 working life… or maybe more like 10-6… 11-7…. or whatever. This time around I’ll be working on a project a bit different than my academic interests, namely violence prevention. It’s a huge topic and one I’m excited to tackle. I’m particularly excited to be working with some incredible people.
But first, the daily slog. Sitting 8 hours a day at a computer is something I haven’t really done in over a year. It’s not easy to adjust back to it, especially when you already have attention span issues… (which might explain why I can never update this blog in a timely manner).
Then there’s the whole HR/taxes/benefits deal, and don’t get me wrong, it’s nice to get health insurance coverage, but the options can be bewildering. We often made jokes about the lack of options in Mongolia, but there is something to be said for limited choice. I mean, there’s even research out there showing that people are happier and have less stress when they have are restricted in their options. Making choices is a somewhat bewildering and paralyzing process these days.
The commute might be the worst part, though. I am definitely not used to crowds. I miss the wide open spaces, even in UB, a city of over a million people. Now, I have to push my way on to the train (and it’s the least crowded line!) and take deep, deep breaths. Luckily, I move to a new place next week, and I can walk to work.
A routine is nice too. Now I can plan meals, and yoga classes, and drinks with friends, and farmer’s market trips… which doesn’t really sound all that exciting, given that the past few months involved planning flights, and hotel rooms, and spa visits…. but maybe that’s what the 9-5 does to you.
Paradigm Shifted 