19 Sep 2019

Dear Backseat Bandits,

You probably won’t even read this. But if you do, I hope you take it seriously. You don’t have to tell your mates you read it - just listen and take my advice. 

I used to be just like you. I know the feeling; the thrill of intimidation, of knowing that you’re stronger. Of never being afraid. Of not backing down for anyone. The punch-ons, the piss-ups, the kick-ons.

I get it.

But what are you going to do after all this? Real soon, a bunch of your mates are going to cave and start taking the plunge into real life. Starting trades, going to uni, acting way more serious than they used to.

Are they dogging the boys, or are they seeing the bigger picture? It feels pretty boss to be young and doing whatever the fk you want, I know. But trust me - it feels incredible to be 30-years-old and absolutely killing it in life.

I’m not saying you need to stop messing around. But have a think about what’s coming next and where you wanna be.

If you like graffiti, then you’re obviously creative. Why not consider getting into design or graphics? If you genuinely enjoy fighting, then take it seriously. Find a coach. Train. Be disciplined. Forge a career out of it.

I know you have big dreams you don’t talk about. The same ones from when you were young, the ones your mum reminds you of. The ones you’re embarrassed to tell your mates about, but you kind of hint at sometimes, in case they feel the same way. 

It’s time to swallow your pride. Just do it. Give following your passions a go, otherwise you’ll be left behind. 

You don’t want to end up living paycheque to paycheque in a job that you hate. You work for a bloody long time in this life and you need to make sure you love what you do. It makes everything a hell of a lot easier.

Keep enjoying the good times with your mates while you’re young, but keep that little flame alive. Start taking your future a little more seriously and stop getting caught up in the BS you don’t really want to be involved in. Now’s the time to have a serious crack at doing what you love, while you’re young and you still have the time and space to give it a go without the reality of responsibility. 

You don’t even have to tell your mates you’re doing it - just keep an eye out for what’s out there for you. If an opportunity comes your way, take it and run. Don’t worry about what your mates will think. After all, if they’re your real mates then they’ll be backing you while you’re off chasing your dream. 

Stay safe,

COZI