About

The lowdown

Hi there, and welcome to Swanalong. I am Sea Captain Swan. An educator, researcher, fish shop philosopher, barnyard musician, and seeker of what it means to live a good and fulfilling life.

Through this site, I focus on two questions that have plagued thinkers throughout history: Am I living a good life, and what is a good life? This is a topic you can find people of all ages talking about. Older folks often lament how good it was in their day, while younger folks may focus on work-life balance, meaningful employment, and self-development. 

At Swanalong, we share ideas, experiences, and discussions on living well. We tackle different aspects of what constitutes a good life, such as health, relationships, work, leisure, and personal growth. We’ll explore life’s big lessons through personal stories and offer practical suggestions on finding balance and wellness.  Swanalong is designed to inspire self-reflection rather than prescribe magical formulas for living a good life.  It’s your life, your journey and your destiny. 

About Me

Born in South Africa during the apartheid era, my formative years were shaped during that complex and challenging time. As a teenager, I moved to Australia, where I completed my schooling and later achieved a master’s degree in Education.

This academic journey set the stage for a diverse professional life, enabling me to work in various interesting places around the world. This has enriched my understanding and appreciation of diverse perspectives about what constitutes a good life.

Now semi-retired, I continue to learn and explore. I visit the gym daily, enjoy playing my guitar, listening to music, reading, and spending time in the ocean when I can. 

beliefs and focus

Central to Swanalong are two fundamental beliefs that guide human actions:

  1. We continuously strive toward what we consider significant.
  2. We are all engaged in overcoming challenges and reshaping our lives.

It is through these beliefs that people seek a good life.

Through Swanalong, we focus on four key areas of human endeavour linked to these beliefs: (1) engaging with meaningful and satisfying tasks, (2) navigating the complexities of friendships, (3) understanding the intricacies of love and intimacy in our later years, and (4) recognizing the value of recreational and spiritual growth.

Join me

If you’re looking for personal growth tips, lifestyle hacks, or just a bit of inspiration, you’ve found the right place. Join me at Swanalong and let’s embark on this journey together, supporting each other as we strive to live meaningful and joyful lives.