Hi, I’m Sean.
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been led by curiosity.
It’s among my deepest core values.
Curiosity has driven me to ask questions, try new things, and expand my comfort zone.
Growth is a second-order effect of this curiosity. Investigating the ideas, people, and things that pique my interest invariably lead to opportunities for growth. When confronted with them, I try to lean in, even when it’s uncomfortable, and there’s uncertainty between me and the other side. Especially when there’s uncertainty, because therein lies possibility. Opportunity.
How do I conduct myself in the world?
I try to strike a balance between intentional aim and adaptability. It allows serendipitous encounters along the journey. It works well for me.
A bit more…
I spent my early years in Solvang, a lovely Danish-themed town on the Central Coast of California, not far from Santa Barbara. Life was fairly simple growing up in Solvang, one of the several towns that constitute the Santa Ynez Valley. Everyone knows each other’s business, as is the case in many tight-knit communities. Adolescent years weren’t without their own trials and tribulations, but having slightly more perspective now, I realize I’m quite fortunate, all things considered.
While in college, I spent a year living in Italy, and immersed myself in the language, culture, and customs. It opened my eyes to the beautiful diversity of the world, broadened my horizons, and cultivated in me a deeper sense of self-reliance. The whole experience touched me profoundly, and has driven me to continue to explore.
The call to adventure has led me through small villages in the Himalayas, to teaching young children in Thailand, to establishing my place in the world while living in San Francisco.
Curiosity and growth facilitated my relocation to Amsterdam, and have afforded me the chance to conduct business across the globe.
With Europe as a home base, I’ve continued to follow my curiosity. It’s led me from the shores of Ireland, through the Nordics, across the Balkans, Middle East, the Horn of Africa and beyond. Along the way, there have been countless people, stories, and experiences that have touched my heart and enriched my soul.
Looking forward
The Local Perspective is my attempt to share some of the ideas, people, and stories I’ve encountered along the journey. By definition I’m not a local in many of these instances, but I try to conduct myself like one. It’s about the hole-in-the-wall restaurant, rather than the tourist trap. The first hand experience, rather than the sensationalized headline.
It’s my hope I can share glimpses of uncommon perspectives to anyone who follows along, a window to parts of our planet less commonly seen.
I’m grateful you’ve read this far. Thank you, reader, for taking a look.
Thank you for your curiosity.
Lots of love.
-Sean