Opportunity and Hard Work

For the most part, I have always worked hard and fully committed to whatever I set out to do.  Generally speaking…


I’ve also had great opportunities in life. Graduating high school, regardless of hard work and good grades, my guidance counselor advised that I not pursue college because all I could “reasonably” expect to be is a wife, secretary or a housekeeper – none of which require a college degree. Therefore, as life would have it, I went on to get a job as a secretary and worked hard. Growing up, I remember my mom, relatives and some of the elders in the community would say, “don’t half do it,” “half-stepping won’t get you anywhere,”  or “if you’re not going to commit to doing it right, don’t do it at all.

I appreciate having a life of hard work, perseverance, opportunity, and in spite of any challenges I’ve faced, favor.

As a hard-working secretary, I got the opportunity to work for someone who believed I could do more, be more, and have more. He mentored, guided, and inspired me to apply my “hard work” ethic toward an education. In the beginning, I painstakingly took one course at a time. It may have taken me longer than some and I didn’t always have extra money or time to do some of the things I wanted to do-with friend and family-but eventually, as I persevered I graduated from college with honors. I graduated magna cum laude and served as class Vice President. Consequently, I went on to get an MBA, have an amazing career, travel, become a mentor, and earn awards, and accolades. I even now teach as a college professor. While there is nothing wrong with choosing to be a wife, secretary, or housekeeper, I am grateful for the opportunity to work hard and have more.

Blessed with the opportunity to work hard as a secretary for Dr. Vin Sahney. Favor prevailed and my future was forever altered.

Respectfully,

Lynn

About

Lynn F Austin, MBA, is an author and speaker.   Her messages reflect her courage and commitment against fear, doubt, and disbelief.  She is dedicated to serving causes impacting domestic violence and at-risk youth.

Lynn Austin

Ms. Austin is an author, coach, professor and managing Director at Austin Group Consulting. She is a 2017 Humanitarian Award recipient. The award recognizes individuals who, despite the obstacle, demonstrate the courage to take decisive action, the wisdom to face aggressive challenges, and the willingness to sacrifice to affect causes that impact the betterment of the community. Lynn holds an MBA from Capella University, and a B.S. from Washington Adventist University. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in strategy and innovation. She enjoys writing, teaching, hiking, traveling, riding motorcycles and spending time with her rescue dog Newman.

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