3rd Year Reflections

I blinked, and three years is now in the rear-view mirror – three years since I made the move from sunny California to Minnesota to start a new job in the “Bold North” and three years since I left a network to build anew.

While paddle boarding last Sunday, I could not help but let my mind wander as I cruised across the lake. My mind was racing with questions – what have I learned in the past three years, have I made progress, how do I want to evolve and change from here?

And like many writers before me, pen and paper proved to be the necessary tool to help make meaning of my thoughts. Here are my top-5 takeaways from the last three years: 

1. Approach each day with an intent to inspire hope and confidence in everyone you meet; life is better when you are raising others up
2. Optimism is not naivety and should not be confused as such; people want to do the right thing
3. Listen deeply for the truths of others; investment builds trust
4. Be authentic and transparent; people want to know the real you
5. Rely on others; some will disappoint, but everyone will teach you something

Three years from now, I am sure my reflections will evolve along with me. But in the meantime, I encourage each of us to reflect on the experiences and learning that has brought us to where we are today – and to wholeheartedly embrace the future and the learning that is ahead. Here’s to the next three years – stay well, friends.