So Milestone 4 in my short list of truly significant events this year is quickly approaching. And as I reflect on what brought about this milestone, I have a few thoughts (surprise.. surprise).
I’ve always know my self-esteem needs work. I don’t wake up, look in the mirror and see a great man with great abilities. I tend to see my failures. But I’m blessed to know quite a few who see me in a much brighter light than I see myself. It is in their eyes that I see a different me. A better me. Someone whom others turn to and count on.
I will speak of these because I’m beginning to see a side of me that I usually deny exists. It is because of them that my eyes are being opened and the veil of self-deprecation that usually shrouds my view of myself is slowly being torn.
My Plant Manager of four years has relocated to Michigan. He has spent the last 4 months bending heaven and earth to ensure that I follow him to Michigan. I can’t say all he has done, but I know that the efforts required by him to ensure I follow him are far beyond anything I could have expected. I would truly be a blind man if I didn’t recognized that he sees great potential in me and has much faith in my ability to positively impact the facility he is in charge of. Oh, so in case you didn't guess, Milestone 4 is I'm moving to Michigan.
My past Manager who is also in the mid-West recently congratulated me on my new position stating that when she first came to the Michigan plant, one of her first thoughts was, “they need a Sean here”. She is an amazingly talented manager and I’m honored to know she thinks me so capable and talented. She is convinced that I am the man for the job.
My most self-revealing encounter as a result of my new job comes from my Engineering Manager of 6 years. We are actively seeking to fill my position. 2 of 3 internal candidates bowed out leaving only one. He insisted we have at least two candidates before making a decision for comparison. I asked why he just doesn’t use me for comparison. His answer was, “If you are the bar, none of the three would be hired.”
These are all people whom I admire and have a deep respect for. Their insight and opinions have helped me throughout the years. So to have their insight directed towards me and my abilities and to hear their endless praise and confidence leaves me wondering what I’m not seeing when I look in the mirror.
While I can’t answer that question, I do accept the image of me they reflect. I move forward knowing that if they think I can, than I most likely can (no matter my personal self-image). One positive I have learned about myself is that when I accept challenges I don’t think I’m capable of, I somehow find a way to succeed. This new job is no exception. I see where the bar is set and have no idea how I’m going to meet it, but my PM believes I can do it and so I shall move forward. Can I actually do it? Only time will tell, but if history can forecast, than yes, I will succeed.
How? I have no idea? I’m thankful to have people who see in me the skills, and talent I rarely see in myself. I’m grateful they challenge me to reach heights I could never see myself reaching with full confidence in my ability. I pray God continues to place people in my life that will push me to greater heights than I could ever dream myself capable.
