ageism

/ˈeɪdʒɪzəm/ 

noun 

1.discrimination against people on the grounds of age;

 

I just finished my Challenge Detroit Spotlight video and it made me think about just how much can be done in a year when you live an intentional life. Like I said in my video, time is easily wasted. Whether it be a pointless job or useless major at some point we all waste time and this is more than procrastination it’s a chronic problem.

So, what happens when you change that
 
At 22 (going on 23) I hate when people tell me to be patient because I have a bias towards action. And there have been times when taking action has worked in my favor and times when it has been a huge slap in the face. But I’m perfectly fine taking the risk more often than not because I’m making an investment in my future self. Believing that if I choose right more often than not I will come out 10 steps ahead and if I stumble it’ll be a quick recovery.
If you’re good enough, you’re old enough
 
I’ve played soccer for about 18 years of my life and a saying that many athletes may have heard at one time or another is that “if you’re good enough, you’re old enough.” Which basically means that age isn’t a determining factor — skill, talent, and passion carry even greater weight. I don’t want to work where seniority overrules merit so why would I live my life that way?
An intentional life not a busy one
 
In college I was never one to enjoy being “busy.” I hated busy work…and I still do. But if you’ve ever looked back on a day or week and wanted to physically pat yourself on the back (it’s okay I’ve done it) looking back now I realize it’s been an intentional year and not just a busy one.
A year in review
 
Here are a couple of highlights from the past year so far:
  • Graduated from the University of Michigan after 3 1/2 years
  • Got engaged at 22
  • Coach for 3rd & 4th graders at University YES Academy
  • Became a Challenge Detroit Fellow
  • Started working at United Way for Southeastern Michigan
  • Volunteer coach for the Neighborhood Service Association
  • Sports Analyst for the Voices of Le Rouge broadcasting team
  • Semi-Pro Soccer player for Detroit City FC
  • Social Impact Fellow for Diplomat Pharmacy
  • Board member at Arts & Scraps
Sidenote: 3,782 people have die today and the number increases every couple of seconds. What are we waiting for?