Yesterday, I retired from my high-tech corporate career after 31.5 years.
It was my first real job—the place where I “grew up” professionally. Leaving after so many years was both hard and easy, both sad and exhilarating. As people ask me what it feels like, I find myself reflecting.
It’s everything you’d expect—a deep sense of accomplishment, gratitude, and excitement for what comes next.
Lessons from the Trees
Almost every morning, I wake up at 5:15 a.m. and head to Pilates class. Living in Oregon, I’m surrounded by towering evergreen trees. One of my favorite moments is seeing their silhouettes against the early morning sky.
Their strength amazes me. These trees have weathered decades—wind, ice, snow, rain, heat, wildfire smoke, construction, drought. And yet, they stand tall. Their roots grow deeper and wider, seeking sustenance and survival.
We Are Not So Different
Like those trees, we weather our own storms—medical leaves, promotions, pregnancies, divorces, layoffs, recessions, pandemics, shifting industries. Change is constant.
And just like the trees, we must grow stronger roots.
💡 We build resilience—by facing challenges and adapting to them.
💡 We strengthen our foundation—by networking, mentoring, and learning new skills.
💡 We thrive—not by avoiding hardship, but by embracing it and growing through it.
Nurture Your Growth
As you navigate life’s uncertainties, take care of your roots.
🌱 Get enough rest.
🌱 Seek out good food, good friends, and good music.
🌱 Limit screen time and step outside.
🌱 Touch the trees. Feel their bark. Marvel at their strength.
They’ve endured—and so will you.
You are growing, even when you can’t see it. I believe in you.