08/06/2026
This photo was taken after I stepped on stage, but it doesn’t detail what happened right before.
The audience doesn't see the nerves, the last-minute tech hiccup, or the moment I'm reading and re-reading the room.
When it’s time to step on stage, the focus goes from what’s happening inside me to how I can meet the needs of the people in front of me.
That’s not easy work, but it’s necessary work and I enjoy it.
07/27/2026
LONG POST ALERT: Try not to let the amassed amount of floral decorations in the picture distract you from what I am about to share. 🥴
I've always been described as reserved or polished. And it is a part of who I am. And yet, there is still a part of me that wants to be less "buttoned up," because my professionalism is often misinterpreted as not fully real or stiff.
Now, back to this picture, if you haven't guessed, suited kid in this picture is me. I loved to wear suits to school. Today, you'll find me in suits or sweatsuits, or something in between but, I'm still just as reserved as I was then.
What I find interesting is we celebrate one version of authenticity. You know the version that includes loudness, sharing raw moments, and public mistakes, but we don't talk much about the people whose authenticity looks more quiet. But y'all there's layers and ranges to authenticity.
Some people are innately measured, composed, and buttoned-up. That's who they are, no different from someone else's natural looseness or bluntness.
So, how does this apply in the workplace?
We often mistake personality for authenticity and assume the people who are the most outwardly expressive are the most genuine. But, authenticity is about whether *the version you choose to share is true to who you are and your values.* When we accept that, we can accept that value can look different, and still be valuable.
So what does authenticity look like to you? Suits, sweatsuits, or both?
07/11/2026
Not even five years ago, I was facilitating a virtual workshop for two people.
I remember hoping that one day I’d have more opportunities to share these ideas with more people. Ideas about the value of people, how we engage with one another at work, and how every person has something valuable to contribute.
The things I once hoped for are now things I get to experience, and yet, I still catch myself thinking about what’s next. That’s the interesting thing about growth, the dream you once worked toward becomes the foundation for the next dream.
I won't forget that there was a version of me who would be amazed to see where I am today, but I also don’t want to stop building, learning, and reaching for what’s next.
What is something your past self would be proud to see you doing today?