My emotions were all over the map this week.
I felt proud, anxious, fearful, angry as hell, jealous, sympathetic, loving, greedy, and at peace. I probably missed some, but those were the ones that came up as I was writing.
It was good to feel all of those emotions as they are pushing me back to center. I’m going to chalk it up to my mind and body attempting to calibrate.
I’m here in Colombia working with our team, and I must say it’s been a wonderful trip. As I mentioned the last few weeks, I am more on the learning side of things right now. This trip was focused on how we’re using technology, where we want to go, and what we will need to get us there.
Our sessions on Wednesday began with individual presentations from everyone attending. A few of them, I believe, were doing their first presentations at Fountain Forward. Even if it was to a small group, I must say they were very impressive.
I couldn’t help but sit back and feel the care they have for our team and our mission. They want to win, and I could feel that the entire trip. Everyone had something to contribute, and they weren’t afraid to speak up!
There’s nothing more impactful than spending time with teammates. That is evident every time I see the Fountain Forward team.
Everything is more real. Everything is more tangible.
This time, upon leaving, I feel “heavier” than normal. I have been feeling a shift in my life’s purpose in so many ways. I don’t feel it’s clear by any means, but I do feel a shift and have been for a while. I’m focused on really listening to my body and mind as my purpose evolves.
I feel a different level of personal connection with the people I spent time with. I feel like my life in Colombia has solidified. My main goal is focused on business, but my personal relationships have become more impactful.
For example, I feel my relationship with Sebastian has become more like my relationship with Chris.
Iron sharpens iron. He has pushed himself personally, and it’s shown up in his work. I admire how he carries himself, and I always look forward to our one on ones when I’m in town.
My Colombian brother!
I am having a hard time choosing final takeaways due to the amount of wonderful conversations and memories this past week, but one does stick out the most…
There’s a conversation I had with Henry that reminded me of why I love/appreciate having a strong nucleus of great people who have high integrity and candor. People who will stand up for me and others if they are acting out of character.
Several times during the trip, I caught myself critiquing my own abilities, and each time, he gently reminded me of the power of speaking things into existence.
When they’re in my thoughts, that’s all they are. Once I’ve spoken, it’s a much greater impact.
Each time it hit me really hard (in a positive way).
Such a great reminder from Henry.
The way Henry is carrying himself is such a great example for his teammates… And me. He’s in a better place than he was the last time I saw him.
It shows how much work he has been putting into his psyche. It shows up in his work and relationships. It’s beautiful.
I’m sitting here thinking about how his energy contributed more than ever before, and he spoke 50% less than normal. I’d venture to say he has gained valuable wisdom from his hard work and experience.
I want to give a shoutout to EVERY one of our attendees who took significant time out of their lives this past week to work on our short and long term goals. Your dedication was evident, and your smiles brought joy to the room.
I know you’re all pushing yourselves to be better, stronger, faster, and more centered. I’m witnessing your growth, and it really is beautiful.
That’s how I will finish this week’s writing. Highlighting all of your beauty and its impact on me. I wish I could summarize the actions I’m going to take because of the way you’re carrying yourselves, but I cannot put it into words right now. I just have to practice!
I suppose I’ll have to just settle with, thank you.
Back to H-Town.
– SJ
PS: Big shoutout to Leonor for planning the trip and being quite successful. Your time and energy is appreciated, and your growth is evident. We have some serious work to do thanks to our dear friend, Sam. Exciting times!