When I first lost my job earlier this year I counseled with my buddy Eric. Since he worked in the HR department I figured he could help me find a job.

I asked him how much I could make if I applied for a non-managerial job. A job that didn't involve me supervising anybody. A job that I could just do and collect a paycheck.

He replied, "You could make $40,000 to $50,000 a year." I was surprised with his answer so I asked, "What about closer to $100,000?" He replied, "Those positions are reserved for the leaders."

Why did I inquire about a non-leadership role? It should be obvious that I didn't want to manage anybody. I just wanted to do my job and be on my way.

All my life I've tried to avoid leadership roles but for some reason they keep knocking on my door. Fear has been my main roadblock to accepting the challenges put before me. Fear that I will look foolish, fear that no one will follow, fear that I would fail.

Now that I've learned how to get past my fears, I can now take on the challenges that lay before me.

One of the most important things I learned about leadership is the "Me First" attitude. Before I can ask anyone to do anything I must do it first. Before I ask my kids to eat their veges, I must eat mine first. Before I ask my wife to clean the house, I must do it first.

Keep Moving Forward,

Orlando Javien Jr.
Educational Coordinator, BBA