I spoke on immersion the other day, and it opened my mind to the power of putting yourself out there, choosing to involve yourself in uncomfortable positions, with the faith that those positions will help you evolve into a member of said community.

My dad and I were talking the other day about some successful people in his life - people whom he had observed transformations from being perceived as somewhat outsiders to fully embraced. Over time, they had slowly transitioned and evolved into members of those realms, and eventually leaders.

His prime example was a Chinese man named Eddie, whom he did business with many years ago. Eddie was an immigrant who moved to Wellington in the 60s/70s. He couldn't speak English and was somewhat of an introvert, avoiding social events. However, over time, he pushed himself to attend social events and gatherings to develop his English and social skills. As time passed, he became more and more proficient in those settings until he was fully embraced and eventually somewhat of a leader among the socialites in Wellington. Eddie became a very successful businessman, and my father and Eddie did business for many years. So much so, that my father became godfather to each other's children.

This example is interesting and incredibly admirable in the way that he entered a realm as a novice, completely out of his depth, but with the aspirations to learn, develop, and evolve. All of us, at some point in time, hesitate in getting involved with something unknown or something that seems outside of our skill set. However, the people that choose to enter that realm can only learn, develop, and evolve.

It may be a difficult mental hurdle to overcome, but it’s the wall of doubt that leads to the path of growth. Like many, I am hesitant to enter new and unknown territories. I don’t particularly enjoy large social gatherings or speaking in public forums. However, I know that the more I do it, the more I push myself into those positions, I will learn, develop, and grow. I also know that within those facets, I am destined to succeed in the search for happiness.

Thanks,

Dean