Sometimes, we need a reminder that our pathway is not accidental. In my high school days, embarking on the journey through ROTC, I aspired to become an officer. Inspired by the legacy of my uncles, both officers in the Air Force and the Army, serving as an officer became a dream rooted in a strong family tradition of military service.
As I pursued my goal, I initially looked to others as models of leadership, not realizing that the path I was forging for myself outside the conventional norms was also shaping the leader within me. When I earned my commission as an Army Reserve officer, it initially felt disheartening not to be on active duty. However, in retrospect, the designation mattered less than my commitment to learning and seizing training opportunities, crucial for the leader I aimed to be.
Surprisingly, a few years into my Army Reserve commission, I was offered the chance to become a naval officer, stepping in with a slightly higher rank as a Lieutenant Junior Grade. The surprise shouldn't have been there because, unbeknownst to me, the steps I took professionally had positioned me for such an opportunity.
In every stage of my journey, from junior ROTC in high school to Army enlisted reserve time, to four years of ROTC including jump school, and finally entering the Navy as a new officer, I was consistently preparing myself to be the leader required at each juncture.
It's crucial not to focus solely on someone else's path but to recognize and appreciate the unique path we are creating for ourselves. Regardless of the route taken to serve, the pivotal aspect was the commitment to serve at every juncture of growth. Each phase exposed me to individuals who contributed to building the skill sets required for my role as a commissioned naval officer.
Every individual's path unfolds at a unique pace. Avoid frustration if others seem to progress faster, as your journey is a testament to your commitment and goals. A wise friend once said, "It's not only about the wind but also the how." Both aspects are equally important in the journey of personal and professional growth.
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