"Next week you will become Practice Makes Perfect's Chief Program Officer, and without you we don't have a business," said PMP's founder and CEO.
"Wait, what?!" I quickly responded.
Soon thereafter reality set in, and I was able to reflect on the opportunity that had been presented to me. For the past 10 months I had been working in the capacity of Chief Operating Officer, and seconds later I would oversee all program strategy, growth, logistics, and execution for PMP. I was placed in the unique position to transition from one C-level position to another C-level position at the age of 25. I knew it was time to embrace the daunting challenge ahead. Here are a few things that I learned from this uncertain situation:
1. Step outside your comfort zone.
We are creatures of habit and fear anything that derails us from our routine. I encourage you to live life on the edge of your seat, both professionally and personally, because that is when you can truly see everything else the world has to offer. In my case I had the opportunity to step into another position that would give me a different perspective on my business and provide exposure to people I previously may not have had access to.
2. Embrace change and learn as quickly as you can.
Change is awesome! Embrace it with open arms, and don't look back. Change usually accompanies another opportunity that is oftentimes overlooked, in my case the ability to learn a new craft and build upon my toolbox of competencies.
3. Think strategically and become a pioneer.
Without a blueprint or precedent of success to follow in my current role, I am given the responsibility and privilege of being a pioneer of what the role of Chief Program Officer will look like in the future. This role will allow me to have the greatest impact and influence on the strategic vision of PMP.
4. With great power comes great responsibility.
As Uncle Ben in the iconic Spider-Man series told us, we must be prepared to take on everything that comes with the power we are given. With a million and one things to finish before June 2015, it is important to remember that our responsibility is to the youth we are serving. It is time to engineer, codify, and implement the best PMP programs our youth have seen to date.
Next time a challenge or opportunity disguised in uncertainty is presented to you, take a second to reflect and give it thought before dismissing it. What you may be passing up is the opportunity to walk through the next door that is planning to open. I will continue on this journey of continual learning and growth to position myself and ensure that I am prepared for the next door that may open.