Trusting Your Path with Dignity

This past week, I had the honor of delivering a short and sweet keynote for students and professionals in the parks and recreation field. It was a meaningful moment, one of those full-circle experiences you don’t always see coming.

Six years ago, when I first moved across the country, I interviewed for a job at this very same university. I didn’t get it.

At the time, I was disappointed. I had pictured myself there, doing the work, being part of the team. It felt like it was the right next step, based on what I knew. But life had a different plan.

Looking back now, I realize that moment, while tough, nudged me toward something I might not have pursued otherwise. This no gave me the time and motivation to start the ever so lovely journey towards entrepreneurship and calling myself a business owner, something that has brought me more fulfillment, connection, challenge and purpose than I could have imagined back then. Sometimes the detour is the path.

But what I’m most grateful goes beyond the business, it's the people I met during that process: the people from that interview process have remained in my circle. We’ve continued to support one another’s work, check in with one another, share a coffee at our state conference - and being invited back to speak at their event felt less like a “return” and more like a quiet reminder that relationships matter, and timing isn’t everything, fit is.

This blog IS NOT a “look at me now” moment. It is a reminder to trust the journey, even when it doesn’t unfold the way you expected. And to carry yourself with dignity in the in-between and stay connected to the people, even when outcomes are different than what you anticipated.

Because:

• Sometimes the opportunities we don’t get help us grow in ways we can't yet understand.

• Sometimes a no is just part of a longer yes.

• And how we respond, with respect, grace, curiosity, and humility - can leave a lasting impression, even more than a job title ever could.

If you’re in a season of not getting what you hoped for, I just want to say: Trust your path. And it may take time, but the path you’re on might be leading you somewhere you can't yet imagine.

Trust the path. Hold your head high. And keep showing up with heart.