I recently watched some documentaries on ancient Egypt out of pure interest and was so excited! I’ve always loved different cultures, languages, food & cuisine, music and so forth but as an adult learning more about those cool things they taught us so little in school (public schools for me). Seeing all of these amazing doctors and scholars discover to this day is even more amazing! They lead with passion and respect and it’s just refreshing to see people doing something they love and being in the forefront of their accomplishments. 

During the past few months, I’ve really taken an interest in learning about people and what their passion is. There’s something organically beautiful to see someone grow because they followed their passion. I can’t relate in a lot of ways (not everyone has the same set of cards to play and that’s not a bad thing here!) but it’s incredibly motivating to see people just like you and I just kill it in life. Those are the most impactful people to surround yourself with (if/when you can, or when it makes sense to). 

Having attended various business networking events, the one thing I really enjoy doing is people-watching. Not in a creepy or offensive way, but just seeing how people interact with each other – their tones of voice, body language, nervous ticks. I’ve always had a really high (too high in fact) intuition and observability skills which I’ve leveraged in many situations. Learning from this is how I can vibe in the room. It’s helped me to connect with people and along the way I’ve been fortunate enough to pick up on some impactful life advice (from an anthropological point of view) from these experiences.

The greatest life advice that I’ve learned from anyone is to really do what you are passionate about. It sounds cliche, I know, but it’s absolutely true! I’ve been extremely (I cannot stress the gratitude I have for my support system) grateful to be able to rest from years of corporate burnout and learn to enjoy life again. Getting to know myself again has been the best thing to happen this year. The journey isn’t what I thought (at all, in any way, shape or form) however I am comforted knowing that I am using my talents and all that I’ve learned (and loved) in business to be able to create my own career with something I’m passionate about.

I know that not everyone loves business – they’re probably not my audience here but business is everywhere in so many ways. During my tenure in the workforce, I’ve worked in several different industries. Some situations were just out of necessity and convenience whereas some were part of my career in corporate America. The foundations of being part of the workforce, or business in general, was restaurants. 

I got my first job at an IHOP in Bloomfield, NJ and from there worked all throughout high school and the majority of my 20’s in the restaurant world. I do admit – I absolutely believe that everyone should have to do time in the restaurant industry. I know that sounds callus but here me out – the first and most important part of any business is that first impression. I learned that very early on.

Looking back at 25 years in the workforce I am so proud from where I started to where I ended up. The best part is taking what I’ve learned and using my expertise to change and grow more – in both business and personal growth. Having had opportunities to create learning tools in the tech space (such as workshops and guides) but also implementing entire roles (from concept to launch and more!) in organizations! I already have the knowledge and the tools to do exactly what I love! 

I am excited for what’s next, are you?