Paying it Forward - Where Art Imitates Life
?Joshua Cutler
VP of Learning and Development | Innovative L&D Solutions, Skill Development - WORLD'S TOP HR SUPER CONNECTOR - I make more introductions in the HR space than anyone else in the world, bar none!
"Paying it forward" - sharing our knowledge with others and paving the way for them to succeed as we have - is vital to the success of any industry, and business in general. Last year I met a wonderful CHRO who was taking a sabbatical precisely for that purpose. The advice he gave me helped me address several blind spots in my own work and my productivity improved as a result. Just recently, I mentored a more junior colleague on the challenges she will face being promoted from senior manager to director of L&D. I provided the lens through which she should address certain topics that came up during her interviews.
As my friends and family know, I've been a huge fan of pro wrestling since I was a small child. I recently saw a marvelous example of paying it forward on an episode of "AEW Dynamite." Chris Jericho, a world famous megastar who has captured countless championships throughout his 30 years of experience, was paired in the ring with Action Andretti, a talented, but relatively unknown local performer, in need of his big break. As the fans jeered, assuming yet another easy victory for Jericho, the unthinkable happened. Jericho had realized well in advance of the match that defeating Andretti would do nothing to improve his already stellar legacy as one of the most accomplished wrestlers of all time. Instead, Jericho had agreed to "put over" (take the scripted loss to) Andretti, which immediately launched Andretti from obscurity to his first full-time contract with a major promotion.
In the time since, I've mentioned this heartwarming moment numerous times to my colleagues as we move forward down this journey called life together. I wholeheartedly encourage everyone to "pull a Chris Jericho" with someone in need of their guidance. At some point, all of us needed someone to see our potential and give us an opportunity. Imagine what a better world we'll all live in when we all pay it forward in return.
Data Analyst | Financial Analysis, SQL, Data Governance, Six Sigma, Process Improvement | Driving Strategic Insights & Business Impact in Financial Services & FinTech
1 年Valuable reminder that our success is not just about personal achievements, but also about helping others thrive!
Reimagining Digital Accessibility to achieve compliance, grow your impact, & bottom line | Driven by Purpose & Passion | Collaborative Stakeholder Engagement | Learning & Development | Organizational Development
1 年Nicely done Joshua Cutler; I love the wrestling reference. Remembering the "pay it forward" concept can be so much more difficult when one is feeling the pressures of life. "But I need to get a new job." "But I need someone to write me a recommendation." "But, I need someone to stick up for me." These are all the reasons I hear people give for why they can't aford to "pay it forward". This article reminds us that if we approach learning, connection, relationships, and life in general with a "pay it forward" mentality, we not only inspire others; but, we open a door for ourselves to receive something from others. It's so critical to not operate with selfishness, but instead, to see the value we bring to others and, the value that those we know can bring to us.
Connector of great people. Recruiter extraordinaire. Messenger of positivity. Merchant Services Broker. How can I be a resource for you?
1 年Great article! Thanks for sharing this!