Sustainability Specialist | Project Management | Sustainable Finance | Strategy & Comms |
He’s defying expectations, and so should we all. Let me tell you why. My dad goes to the gym 5 times a week. He lifts heavier weights than most people in their 20s. He enjoys rock concerts with his friends, staying up all night. Then, he wakes up at 5:30 AM to drive over 10 hours for work. For some, he’s "crazy." For others, his energy and drive are nothing short of inspiring. But for many people I know, they wouldn't even consider doing half of what he does, regardless of their age. Yet, because of his age, he'd be dismissed as not "fit" for many opportunities. (And you wouldn't believe his age anyway, I assure you!) He, like many others, might not be the "ideal candidate" on paper, with the "right" age, background or trendy degree, but those labels are limiting. The reality is, age, experience, and personality shouldn’t be barriers. It’s the uniqueness, the drive, and the grit that set people apart. It’s the ability to see beyond the surface and recognize potential where others might not. In fact, it's often the people who are different, who have lived life from a perspective outside the norm, that bring the most valuable insights and contributions. Bill Gates dropped out of college. Walt Disney was not considered creative. Oprah wasn't considered "TV material". All it takes is someone willing to believe in them. Let’s challenge our assumptions. The best candidates don’t always fit the mold, but their vision is the real strength. Faith in the mission. PS: Role models don't say. They do. And we follow by example. #Resilience #BreakingBarriers #DiversityMatters #AgeIsJustANumber #Leadership #ExperienceOverAge #FaithInTheMission
