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Nicole Jensen's avatar

I too have arrived at a time in my life where I find more joy in supporting others in achieving success than I do in celebrating or even recognizing my own. I often wonder if this is a symptom of a certain age or a manifestation of life experiences or even a simple result of drawing inward in reaction to the noise around us.

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Tarek Taha's avatar

Could be all of the above Nicole? I'm sure age has something to do with it. We've been down the road a bit and can see that the top of that ladder you were climbing may be leaned against the wrong building. Thanks!

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j.e. moyer, LPC's avatar

One “trophy” I have collected over the years of working as a psychotherapist is a 3x5 card folded into a small square with note written in pencil from a high school freshman coming out to me as gay and not wanting to talk about it just yet because their parents were very conservative and religious.

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Tarek Taha's avatar

They needed someone to listen to them when they felt all alone. Awesome.

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Maddie Powers's avatar

I had phenomenal mentors in my college years. They were a couple in their 50’s who recently purchased an existing business, a booming homemade ice cream shop, without previous experience in the industry themselves. They entrusted the GM position to me, a 19yo going to school full time. They held me accountable, would celebrate my successes, including those I didn’t see/wouldn’t on my own, and poured into me as an individual.

I would tell my younger self, “Don’t take these types of relationships for granted as many others do not get to have this same experience during truly formative years. Take time to recognize those around you as people are in your life for a season, a reason, or a lifetime.” That last line I learned from them ;)

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Tarek Taha's avatar

Beautiful Maddie! Thanks for adding value to all of us with your story. You are most definitely a "get it done" person.

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Ben McKinney's avatar

Thanks for sharing this Tarek. It's especially pertinent given EOY review time when we inevitably glance at the scoreboard.

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Tarek Taha's avatar

For sure Ben. It’s hard to break out of the letter grade mindset isn’t it?

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Susanna Taha's avatar

This is awesome! I love the “band picture” because that is where we first met♥️

I would tell my “younger self” to seek out what brings true joy. I spent way too much time attempting to “people please”(even to the extent of my own health). I am beginning to realize that my true identity comes from Jesus and what HE says is true. My life doesn’t depend on what others think of me. I am still learning this but now remembering the old Journey song “Be good to yourself”

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Tarek Taha's avatar

Love it!

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Susan Halaut's avatar

This is so good Tarek. It's especially timely. Thank you!

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Tarek Taha's avatar

Thanks Susan! It reminds me of the only Bruce Springsteen song my wife will semi-tolerate, "Glory Days."

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Mike Oppenheim's avatar

I would tell my younger self, "let it unfold, don't rush the process." and then my younger self would probably give me the finger... :-) great post!

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Tarek Taha's avatar

Ha ha ha! Spot on Mike. If only we could go back to our younger self with the knowledge/experience we have now…

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Tyler Wedel's avatar

Powerful words Tarek! There's really no better feeling or reward than someone telling you how much you've helped them. Making a real difference is better than any trophy.

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