Breaking Barriers – The Power of a Chance

This isn't my usual type of post. It's a bit more personal, touching on gratitude and growth, appreciation and admiration, and hopefully something to inspire others...

My first official manager at my first real job (after university) had her flaws—I mean, don't we all?—but I'll never forget her. In fact, I have the utmost respect and admiration for her.

I was just wrapping up my internship when I received an invitation to “complete the application process” for a job I had applied for the previous day. As a newcomer to the working world, I had no idea I'd be interviewed the same day. I showed up in smart casual attire, only to see others dressed in business formal and looking very professional. Despite this, I maintained my composure and focus.

I remember being one of the last two candidates remaining at the end of a very long day. I struck up a conversation with the other candidate, only to find out that we were interviewing for the same position, and learn that she had years of experience, while I had none. Still, I remained undaunted, keeping my composure and focus.

She was called in before me, and soon after she emerged and left. When it was my turn, the manager personally greeted me and led me to her office. We chatted along the way, with me commenting on the positive environment and the people I had met there so far, while waiting. During the interview, I was a nervous wreck, feeling out of place with my lack of experience.

At the end, the manager escorted me back to the HR office and asked me to have a seat (I hadn't seen anyone else return from their interview and stay). Moments later, the recruiter called me into her office and offered me the job on the spot. Overjoyed, I barely heard anything she said afterward. Walking home, I felt like the ending scene of “The Pursuit of Happiness.” I gave God the glory, knowing I couldn't have secured the job on my own. After all, I had no experience.

To my first official manager at my first real job (though she may never see this post), I extend my deepest gratitude. She took a chance on me without experience, recognizing potential in a world where you need experience to get a job, but no one wants to risk giving you that first opportunity. That is something I will NEVER forget.

I am where I am in the professional world today because of my first manager and the wealth of experience and knowledge she exposed me to. I've come a long way since then, with much farther to go, but no matter where I end up or what I end up doing, I will always appreciate her bravery and the belief she had in me when I had none in myself. She saw that I was worth the shot, and she took it.

To all the employers who take similar chances on their staff without prior experience, you are the true heroes. To everyone who has been given such opportunities, no matter the outcome, be grateful for that person who believed in you enough to take that “risk.” If you become employers yourselves one day, may you extend the same courtesy to others.

May you also be a leader with the mindset that you work for your team, not the other way around. Foster an environment where your team feels comfortable but not complacent, valued and not abused, important and not invisible. Groom and teach them to become professionals in their craft, not just workers. May the relationship grow to be mutually beneficial, allowing everyone to reap the rewards fairly.

Additionally, if you have a dream or goal for yourself, don't be afraid to take a chance on yourself. You're worth the risk, just like anyone else. Often, we invest so much in others, helping to build their empires, that we neglect our own aspirations. If God has placed a calling on your life, learn to be obedient and follow it. Walk by faith, not by sight, trusting in His guidance. Always be reminded of His words and keep it at the forefront of your mind: "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you" (Psalm 32:8).

And with that, I hope that you, my dear friends and readers will treat people with love and respect. Show everyone you meet kindness, even when met with hostility; your warmth will always keep the cold energies at bay. Until next time...

Big Up Yuhself! :D