My life is cyclical ... during heavy travel seasons for work, I need to write all the thoughts in my head down because I spend entirely too much time alone for my extroverted, verbal processing self. When I actually stay put for a few weeks, I spend all of my time with people and don't leave enough time to sleep, much less write. So I won't be posting with as much regularity as I originally anticipated, and that's ok.
Even though people go to college and choose a major to get a job (theoretically), as a student, it seemed perfectly normal to be a full time student, get involved in student groups, work part time, and make time for a social life as well. This often came at the expense of sleep, but you had an opportunity to do a variety of things and pursue passions. Upon graduation, people tend to find full time jobs and put all of their time into work. As a young person with a full time job (that I do enjoy) ... I still miss the ability to try a variety of things and my outside communities, primarily
STLF. And I don't love the US tendency to define self by a job.
Earlier this month I had the good fortune to visit my dear friend Hanna in Pittsburgh. She moved half way across the country to get a graduate degree in Food Studies. She's incredibly passionate about growing food, teaching people about food, and cooking food. Her classes are about food journeys, and food forests, and she could name every budding plant we saw. I love many things about Hanna, but one of my very favorites is her authenticity, and passion for what she spends her time doing.
Some of us have more scattered passions, or haven't yet defined a "thing" ... I love learning. I keep going back and forth -- grad school or no? If grad school, what program do I invest my time, money, and energy in? And when? What do I want to be when I "grow up"? Where should my next flight be to? Which book to I read next?
I'm incredibly privileged to even have these options. So many things I could do, want to do... and my mind says have a plan, there is so little time. Then I talk to my friend Liz, who at 74 is still traveling the world, trying new things, and I'm reminded that with good fortune, there is plenty of time. I'm well aware that this is hardly a crisis. Honestly, while these questions do creep up often...they rarely keep me up at night. This is because I am blessed to know some delightfully wonderful people that have demonstrated that you don't have to do one thing forever, and being passionate about what you do is the most important. You don't necessarily need the specific degree to do it.
I was reminded of this today when listening to our VP of Investors Relations mention her degree in Cereal Chemistry ... and remembering that the CEO of a growing, $13 billion dollar business has a bachelors in English. Next week I get to travel with
Jacquie who has a degree in political science, and figured out a way to sell delicious beer that helps feed the hungry! There's something to be said for experience, curiosity, willingness to learn, and saying "yes" when opportunities present themselves.
Minneapolis Hub of Global Shapers had meetings with two different Young Global Leaders this weekend. Both spoke of their journeys which were not linear, and instead focused on the communities of people they belonged to, people they collaborate with, and the impact of relationships to get them where they went.
As a group, we have a variety of interests. The commonality is the authenticity, passion, and desire to make an impact in our work.
Eric is energized by food systems, makes beer, and can talk about spring carrots with such enthusiasm that makes you wish you too had thought to plant seeds last fall.
Amanda studied neuroscience, and runs a socially conscious art community and dance collective.
Timothy founded a youth leadership program focused on green economies.
Neel studied mechanical engineering, but focuses his time and energy on music and connecting with others. The list goes on... mountaineering, social entrepreneurship, education, emergency medicine, design thinking, fair trade, women's empowerment, health care... the list goes on. I love being surrounded by people that get excited about something, and are part of the solution.
Outside of work, making time for hobbies is important too. Whether it's stand up comedy, creative writing, playing an instrument, exercise, travel, theater performances and concerts, volunteering, or finding the best bloody mary in the Twin Cities - find the combination that makes you the best version of you. In addition to personal happiness, I promise you, it's a favor to everyone you interact with.
Alright, that was a bit of a ramble. Thanks for sticking with me friends. If you're currently at a crossroads or have a big decision on the future coming up... remember to value your happiness and passions, and know that in the end,
everything is going to be okay. If you feel stuck and want to talk it out, I'm all ears!
