This week marks 24 years since I launched my consulting company. Half of my life. This realization feels deeply humbling.
I began at 24 with a dream, relentless immigrant perseverance, and uncanny youthful moxie. I wanted to do meaningful work, have creative autonomy and, most of all, to make a difference (the opposite of my corporate experience). Despite all odds – my age, lack of business experience or network, several economic downturns, and yes, even this last year, here I am.
I could not have imagined the longevity or extent of this dream realized. Of all weeks, this anniversary week gifted me with three beautiful reminders:
When I realized that the Peace Walk was coming to the Lincoln Memorial on Wednesday, I felt called to be there. I had a coaching call scheduled with my remarkable client Jennifer, whom I first met more than 15 years ago while facilitating a leadership development program at Pew. Since then, she has invited me into most of the organizations she has served (what an honor). I knew Jennifer wouldn’t mind rescheduling, but then I asked if she would join me. She said yes!
So instead of meeting on Zoom, we met spontaneously, walked, and stood together at this historic moment. Beyond the magic of the monks and Aloka, sharing this experience with someone I so admire, someone who has trusted me across contexts, chapters, and decades, was truly extraordinary.
Last Friday, I had the honor of facilitating the YWCA board retreat, thanks to the board chair @Regan’s invitation. Regan and I connected years ago at the @lgw book club through our shared love of literature. That connection led to an inspiring opportunity to contribute to a mission I deeply care about.
And yesterday I had lunch with a dear friend @Matt to celebrate his retirement. I’ve had the privilege of working with Matt across 15 years and multiple organizations and professional chapters. What began as a client relationship became a lifelong partnership and friendship.
I’m in awe reflecting on this week and on the past 24 years.
I could not be more thankful to continue doing work I love that makes a meaningful difference for leaders and the organizations they serve. It is a privilege to walk alongside them across time and chapters of growth, challenge and change. Sometimes in conference rooms and sometimes around monuments.
Half my life. Still serving. Deeply grateful.
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