Reflecting On The Journey 10 Years Later

Taking a leap of faith is never easy. When big opportunities present themselves to us, often the first feeling that bubbles up is doubt. Or maybe fear. “Fortune favors the bold,” is a quote I'm sure you’ve heard at least once. However, that doesn’t mean the “bold” are immune to the learning curve venturing out into the unknown can bring.

August 2020 marks the passing of 10 years since my move from Arizona to New England for my first job out of college. A marker not only in time but in cumulative learning moments. Pushing myself out of my comfort zone so many years ago is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

What’s funny is, back then, I had my heart set on becoming a New Yorker before deciding on Boston. An academic advisor recommended the area as a great place to start out as a young professional and, for some reason, that idea became rooted in my brain and didn’t go away. I cold emailed every single nonprofit I could, asking if they were hiring. I scoured online job ads. I got rejection after rejection. Even without any viable prospects, I confidently told friends and family, even strangers, I would make it out there. I knew Boston was the place I was meant to be.

And then one summer afternoon, out of the blue, I got an email about a job interview. Someone 2,000 miles away was willing to take a chance on me, sight unseen. A few days after that brief phone interview, I was offered an entry-level position working in communications and events for a grassroots nonprofit. Exactly two weeks after that, I moved away to a city where I didn’t know anyone. I packed up my belongings, with nervous anticipation of the fresh start waiting for me.

And the past 10 years have flown by faster than I ever could have imagined. Within that time frame, I graduated with my master’s degree. I’ve worked in positions that taught me about the leader and mentor I aspire to be. I launched WordSpark! And I’ve experienced the joy and freedom that only following an authentic path can bring.

As I reflect on the journey, I am feeling deep gratitude. For the people who were there during the learning moments. For the people who shared a kind word when needed. For the people who were willing to grab a cup of coffee and share their own leadership experiences that have shaped them along the way. Thank you.

To celebrate this milestone, I took a socially-distanced walk along the Charles River in Boston. Many memories floated through my mind. What rose to the top is this.

May we all be a beacon of inspiration when someone else needs one. No matter what the future has in store, I remain committed to paying it forward.

Jennifer Ingham is the founder and owner of WordSpark Digital Consulting, a social impact digital marketing consultancy based in New England. Interested in collaborating? Let’s connect.