Embracing Gratitude: A Year of Transformation and Triumph

As the crisp autumn air ushers in the Thanksgiving season, I wanted to reflect and express gratitude for my professional journey this year. I rode the emotional rollercoaster this last year, which helped me be ever more grateful this season.

A Year of Professional Ups and Downs

About this time last year, I felt a strong sense of accomplishment and optimism at work. Our company was poised for a significant pivot, one I passionately believed in and had worked tirelessly to achieve. Surrounded by a team of incredibly talented and hardworking individuals, I felt we were on the brink of something extraordinary.

However, as often happens in life, unexpected challenges arise. Specifically ones that were completely out of my control. The company faced an unexpected challenge, leading to our president's resignation and subsequent layoffs. Slowly, my co-workers started jumping ship and finding new employment elsewhere. I was unsure what the future would bring, but I decided to keep my options open and work my hardest until something else materialized.

Finding Hope in Adversity

Despite my resolve to keep at it, my morale hit an all-time low, and I continued to grapple with uncertainty and anxiety about the future. There were days that I found myself in deep despair, which made my productivity come to a screeching halt. I leaned on the counsel I received from colleagues. They suggested a path I had never considered – starting my consulting business.

A New Beginning: Alignment Consulting

The idea, initially daunting, slowly began to resonate with me. On a long drive back from my son's state wrestling tournament, under the starlit sky, I was thinking and observing Saturn's alignment with the constellation Aquarius. Then, the concept of 'Alignment' crystallized in my mind. It was at that moment that I decided I was going to start my own business.

The following Monday, I got a LinkedIn message from a connection asking me if I was available for freelance work! Additionally, using my existing network, I was able to land another steady consulting gig. With the support of colleagues, partners, and friends, my nascent business took off, focusing on areas I am truly passionate about, especially in the SATCOM industry. I went full-time consulting on September 15, 2023!

I'm truly excited about what 2024 will bring. I'm already thankful for a future where I am meeting new people, new opportunities, and seeing what excitement Alignment will bring to the industry this year.

Gratitude in Abundance

Today, as I look back, I am immensely thankful for everyone who stood by me – those who offered advice, those who believed in my vision to become a client, and my wife, whose unwavering support has been my cornerstone.

This Thanksgiving, I am grateful for the challenges that morphed into opportunities, the people who rallied around me, and the chance to do work that excites me and contributes positively to our industry.

In the spirit of this season, I encourage you to reflect on your journeys, find gratitude even in the unexpected, and embrace the possibilities. Here’s to a future filled with hope, success, and continual growth.