The Energy Bus

 Over the last few years, I've grown into someone I wasn't always sure I could become.

I've gained confidence in my abilities, my leadership, and the work I'm building. For a long time, I wasn't certain what direction my life would take or what would truly light me up. Today, I feel purposeful, capable, and energized by the work I do every day.

Ironically, it was around the same time I became comfortable in my own skin that the criticism seemed to get louder. Doubt, negativity, and second-guessing appeared from unexpected places—both near and far. For a moment, it was tempting to shrink back.

During a conversation with my mentor and supervisor, Melissa, she smiled knowingly and shared a simple piece of advice:
"Don't waste your energy on people who won't get on your bus."

That led me to read “The Energy Bus,” and one lesson stood out: negativity will always be there. The real challenge is deciding where to invest your energy.

I've realized that the people who matter most aren't the ones standing on the sidelines criticizing the route. They're the people already on the bus—encouraging, supporting, challenging, and growing alongside you.

One word I've consistently heard throughout my career is passion:
"Your passion is contagious."

It's what drives my work every day, and it's how I connect with others, especially in the nonprofit world.

When I look around today, I see an incredible group of people who believe in the mission, the work, and each other. That's what matters.

The truth is, I still have moments of doubt. But I've learned that growth often comes with resistance, and confidence isn't the absence of criticism—it's choosing not to let criticism define you.

So I'll keep investing my energy where it belongs: in the people, purpose, and work that inspire me. For that lesson—and for the people who continue to show up alongside me—I'm incredibly grateful.