I didn’t expect a guy on a mountain unicycle to teach me something about my career, but here we are. I rode my mountain bike the past two days… in December… in Colorado. Weird, I know, but it made me wildly joyful. Riding singletrack is one place where my mind lets go of expectations and my soul feels its freest.
At one point, I passed a guy on a mountain UNICYCLE. So cool, but definitely not for me. We exchanged a few fun words and laughed, and it hit me: he’s doing what he loves, and I feel zero pressure to try what he’s doing. I thought it was crazy and awesome, but I was already having the time of my life on my bike. No comparison. No need to do it “better” or differently. What I was doing was enough and exactly where I wanted to be. And I was happy.
So… what’s this really about?
About 30 days ago, I took a new job working for a friend. I haven’t told many people yet, mostly because I want to remain friends with this person no matter what. I asked for a trial period and he loved the idea. We both want to make sure it’s a good fit and a worthwhile investment on both sides.
I wasn’t sure at first. I’m 51, and the job requires energy. I haven’t done anything like this since pre-kids, back in my 20s.
But here’s what I’ve discovered: I’ve been missing people and connecting.
⭐ Real, face-to-face connection.
🎁 Making a difference in someone’s day.
❤️ Holding space for people who are carrying something heavy & need a human moment.
I get to positively influence my coworkers and help create a better culture. I get to impact people and model how we treat one another.
I get to laugh through chaos. I feel my energy surge during busy times. I get to help others navigate those moments with more positivity. In just 30 days, I’ve received more genuine affirmations than I had in the last five years combined because I’m finally in a place where I operate at my best. I’m helping build belonging and community. As well as becoming part of the community.
What this role doesn’t come with (yet) is a title or an impressive external label. But I know who I am. And I know not everyone can do what I do. This is my sweet spot. I’m showing up as my best self. I’m enthusiastic about the fun I’m having and the joy I get to spread. I’m passionate about building connections, creating belonging, and being a positive force for my team.
I don’t need to do something harder or try to ride the metaphorical unicycle. I’m doing what’s right for me. And I’m happy.
I hope to share more about the role soon. Until then, I’m going to keep having fun. 💫
“We act as though comfort and luxury were the chief requirements of life, when all that we need to make us happy is something to be enthusiastic about.” — Charles Kingsley