When I was a little, I grew up hanging out with the same families every single weekend, and I was the youngest of all the kids. As the baby, there was always someone older and wiser than me to be the one to talk — to answer the questions of the adults, to tell an interesting story of something going on at school, or even to decide which game we would all play next.

When I was directly asked a question — “How are you?” — I’d look at my older sister to respond on my behalf. Fast forward to high school when we had to give a speech in English class…I probably lost a pound in sweat that day, but I did it. Then, in college, I found out that in one of my general education classes, we would have to give a speech in front of the large auditorium at the University of Illinois. I dropped that class faster than you can say Go Illini.

Yet, here I am with a personal website that has a section entitled: Speaking Engagements. Funny how life happens and people change, isn’t it? Here’s a little secret: I love it.

I sometimes hinder my own progress by labeling myself based on decades-old descriptions of a person who has now grown and evolved into something different. I often say that I value continuous learning. Learner is even one of my top CliftonStrengths…why WOULDN’T I grow and change?

It’s important to know who we were and where we came from, but the person we were doesn’t define who we are today. If you want something or even want to be something, go after it. You just might surprise yourself.