Since we’re in the process of talking about storytelling, I thought you’d appreciate this personal piece from Abe Jacob – joining us again to share a little about his career path. – LC
Is our first thought always our best thought?
Being a small-town boy turned Columbus suburbanite, I have often reflected on the evolution of my life’s goals and priorities. As a typical university freshman, I was tasked with listing my goals for the next five- and ten-years during orientation. Politics was my game of choice!
With the gift of gab, proud commitment to represent my hometown, and a thirst for the prestige often associated with public office, there was no holding me back. It was that early intuition that put a spotlight on my desire for a career in government and politics. The notion that I could use my voice to help families, businesses, and people I cared about was appealing and I wanted to be known throughout my community as the “go-to” if they ever needed help.
I admit that my heart was in the right place, but I equally need to acknowledge that I refused to listen to the other voices pointing out that I didn’t need to be elected to offer a helping hand. Don’t get me wrong, I had a natural interest in the process of government early on and that has yet to sunset. However, as years have gone on, I believe that narrow focus restrained my overall outlook on career aspirations.
The public owes us nothing!
The results of Ohio’s 2016 primary election forced me to reshape my career ambitions. My then-boss and hometown legislator lost his bid for a third term in the Ohio House and my roadmap for succeeding him in office was sent right over the cliff.
With reality of term limits, I was well aware I could wait out the likelihood of an open seat eight years down the road, but I opted to take a step back and re-evaluate what was TRULY important for my future. I admit that I lost sight of how each election had consequences and we can only ask the voters for their support – and if it’s withheld, we must respect their decision.
The months following that election felt like an eternity. Thankfully that time of wondering, stressing, and hoping for a light at the end of the tunnel concluded when the voters in another part of the state elected a legislator willing to give me the runway I needed to start a new chapter. I was able to complete my tenure working for the Ohio House on my terms, serving as the right hand man to an elected official I admired. In the end, those voters opened the door to some of the most fulfilling experiences I’ve had in my career.
Stop, Look, and Listen!
While it has been a work in progress, I’ve pushed myself to be present more and more with moments I now recognize as potential life lessons. You can work your fingers to the bone in order to set yourself up for success, but it’s rare that everything goes according to plan. And if we fail to turn the page, we amplify the sting of disappointment.
Are you giving up or are you evolving? Evaluate if you’re on a path that brings you fulfillment. Your paycheck is one thing, but decide if there is something else that will make your life hit that peak of satisfaction. We aren’t meant to live our lives in regret. Regrets are based on a moment that we can’t rewrite. Pick the pencil back up and write!
Part of the Possible 