Current:

I have been living and teaching in Japan for the past year. I live here with my beautiful wife whom I’ve been married to for the past 3 years.

My weekly schedule consists of bouncing between several public schools, teaching children from 7 to 15 years of age. I also teach English conversation classes to adults in the evenings. The kids are great, but they do wear me out!

Oddly, life has settled quickly and although I’m miles from home, life isn’t worlds apart to what I’m used to.

- The kids are really lively which keeps me on my toes!

Background:

I was born in England and I had spent most of my life there before coming to Japan. The things I really miss are good cheese, jam, bread and cheap fruit. Would you believe I found a melon worth 6000 Yen! That’s around £30 and roughly $50 (I think- pay no attention to my conversion skills).

I graduated at Portsmouth University and spent years searching for the ideal job and moving from city to city. Coming from a poor and broken family, I had strong desires since I was a young boy to do great things and be the best that I could.

Life became even more difficult during my earlier years, I developed depression and insomnia, however I wasn’t about to roll over and give up. I was determined to break free and do the things I wanted to do. I studied, researched and gobbled up books on motivation, confidence and goal setting. I was determined to become better.

Years later I reached a turning point in my life, the pinnacle moment. I realised that I was in full control of my destiny and with that, I could do anything I desired.

I conquered my depression and insomnia. I realised with my regained health, my knowledge and experience I could help others. So I began writing and a year later I finished my first book to help insomniacs all over the world – How to Beat Insomnia

Interests and Inspirations:

I enjoy exploring new places and cultures. I am a big fan of Jazz music and the arts. Anything that makes me laugh is a good thing –I’m constantly in search of things that make me laugh!

As an amateur photographer I enjoy capturing beauty, moods and emotions. My collection of photos consists of landscapes from all over the world.

The kids I teach are an inspiration to me. Their eagerness to learn, their motivation, their confidence and energy astounds me on a daily basis.

Ongoing:

I want to continue to give and help others in need. I am constantly working to better myself and to become a self that I am happy with. I remind myself to appreciate life and to be grateful. I plan to continue learning, writing, creating and moving forward.

-My darling wife Mayumi