F*@KING FIRST TIME
Okay, the title and concept are a total steal from Brene’ Brown. All you Brene’ Brown naysayers, hush. Witty, sassy, middle-aged, type-A chic trying to better herself (and in turn, others) by being a badass researcher on vulnerability and shame. Oh, and she swears. Yeah, I’m not ashamed to admit it..she’s my people.
I was listening to her podcast while out jogging with the dog…sloowww jog. (I now realize the whole reason we really wear headphones is so you don’t hear yourself sucking air.) The topic was growth. Specifically, how growth stops when we stop putting ourselves in challenging or uncomfortable situations. Interestingly, as we reach the prime of our life/golden age/pinnacle, we tend to not want to put ourselves out there as much. It’s not that we don’t like the idea of learning or trying something new (e.g. playing a new instrument, learning a new sport, new hair color, changing careers, living in your dream location). We love to think about it but are more hesitant to put it in motion. Why? We paid our dues, we don’t want to go through an unfamiliar experience again. We know how much effort is involved. No. Thank. You.
This led me to start thinking about Veteran’s transitioning to the civilian world. Senior rankers, I’m talking to you. Those of you that reached the pinnacle of your military career; are the go-to guy/gal; the subject matter expert. Yes, you know I’m talking…
