Opinions of a 32 year old queer man no one asked for...

As I progress to figuring out more about life, myself, and where I am trying to go, the idea of a misstep versus a mistake is really resonating. I first learned the idea of a misstep versus a mistake while leading a leadership development program as one of the activities, It was used to encourage risk and challenge, but to also understand the way that doing something you know is wrong twice can create challenges. Through a great mental health professional, friends, and other conversations, I had some recent insights for us all to consider as we progress...which again no one asked for. I hope the insights are helpful for you

• You are stronger than you know- When my mom died, my world collapsed. I was hurt, I didn't invest or care for myself, and was lost. In the recovery of that loss, I found a strength within my soul and from my community that helped me heal and grow. While I personally learned about the strength within me, I have learned from supporting others through grief and loss that we have a strength within us to heal through the hurt.
• You can make a misstep and it not ruin your career - I have learned a lot throughout my career. Sometimes we make a choice to explore a new career. Sometimes we decide to make a major change. I made a move to University Advancement in January, which has been amazing. I have had the opportunity to raise over $300,000 to support various initiatives. I have and will continue to learn, but have not made an irreparable damage to my career by exploring a new area that has given me a valuable skill that will help me as I move forward. As I look to my next step, I am excited to get back to the work of supporting students, families, and colleagues in the work that we do.
• Bringing our full self matters- I am a white 32 year old overweight, able bodied, white gay cisgender man. I have economic and educational privilege and the intersections of my oppressed and privileged identities is part of what has made me, me. I believe in a woman's right to choose, science, the importance of education, and that existing as a member of the LGBTQ+ community is brilliant and beautiful.
• Our stories are worth sharing- I had a really interesting conversation yesterday with a colleague about ego. The way that they initially approached it was that sharing about themselves was viewed as ego...which I challenged. The why, the how, etc. are all important to consider, but ultimately finding and creating space to share our stories is not egotistical, it is transformational. My belief is that as we work to build the just and equitable future of our world, the stories we share help to understand the experiences of others.

Life is a complicated. messy, beautiful adventure. I will keep on writing and sharing my journey and welcome the opportunity to learn more about your journey. We have a lot to learn from each other and can't wait to see what is ahead.