Running Into The Fire
By: Paula Boland
I love to run. It makes me feel alive. It represents who I am, fun, free, hard-working, competitive and all around a passionate person. I can’t imagine my life without it. No surprise that my first 3 ½ weeks at Ember reminds me of a 5k race. Both are fast, intense, rewarding and give me a high (runner’s high, that is).
The Ember 5k
The night before the big day was a sleepless one, due to the high level of excitement (aka nervous energy and anxiety). My thoughts were filled with scenarios of “what ifs” and unexpected obstacles. Would I be able to handle them? How will I perform against my competitors/colleagues?
The Gun Fires
As I anticipated, the obstacles came, right at mile (week) 1: Every team member had years of event experience, were fluent in event biz lingo and Macs/ Basecamp Whizzes. I conquered those obstacles, as I typically do, with a “can-do” attitude.
Mile 2
I settled into a groove/stride, catching my breath, put trust in all of the training (and there was a lot of that!) and feeling pretty good about myself, surrounded by stellar runners and team members. I started to believe, and feel, that I could do this. My confidence built as I checked my watch and items off my To Do on-boarding list.
Mile 3
I started to turn on the engines. Everything was smooth, familiar and simply awesome! I felt like I was a part of the Ember Family. I realized, at that moment, the secret to success in both work and play: supportive fans /training partners and colleagues that always have your back and bring out the best in you.
The Home Stretch
I knew I was approaching my goal. I gave it 110% and was proud at my accomplishment. On-boarding process is over, as is this race. Time to sign up for another race and bring on a new challenge.
Every 5k race is unique and exhilarating, same as every day at Ember. That is what attracts me to both. I strive to learn, grow personally and professionally, be challenged, not be content with being ordinary. I want to be extraordinary and apply all of my passions.
What’s next? Another race, of course. The feeling of movement is what I’m working for – this job does not lend it self to stagnation. I keep going, keep pushing, keep running towards the finish line. And then, do it all over again.