Never Say Never

In 2012, I was working as the Leadership Development Coordinator at Angelo State University. Even though it was a position I fell into, I still gave the job all my effort, but not my heart. I dreamed of becoming an entrepreneur. At the time, I was ill equipped to turn my dream into reality. I was working in that position while my husband was finishing his physical therapy degree. I assumed I would go back to school for a business or marketing degree of some kind. I remember a specific conversation with my co-workers at Angelo State where someone mentioned the goal of earning a doctorate degree. When asked if I would ever earn a doctorate I promptly replied, ‘absolutely not’. In no way was I interested in that option. Little did I know that interaction was the first of many nudges from God along my path to where I am today.

My world changed completely when I opened my heart to God’s plan. I have this bad habit of trying to control everything which often closes my mind to new possibilities. When the opportunity to attend Hardin-Simmons University’s doctorate of leadership program arose I said yes. That was three years ago. I hardly recognize the person I am today in comparison to who I was when I started studying in this program. Through the reading, writing, discussion, and traveling I gained confidence and curiosity. This program taught me everything I needed to know to fulfill my dream of owning a business. I gained the confidence to move forward in an area that previously terrified me.

“The world needs dreamers and the world needs doers. But above all, the world needs dreamers who do.” -Sarah Ban Breathnach

“Never” is a word I used to say. If someone approached me four years ago with an image of the person I am today I would have responded in two way dreams s. First, disbelief. Second, I would have felt intensely energized by the accomplishments. The simple decision to walk in faith instead of fear forever changed my life. I was afraid of the work, the time commitment, and the cost. Rather than allow my uncertainty to guide my decision, I listened to my heart and accepted the challenge of this doctorate degree. In return, I received the direction and confidence I needed to live the life I imagined through my business. I am forever grateful.