January 6, 2021
Question: (Two parts) How are you most often misunderstood? Why do you think this is?
Answer: I am most often misunderstood because I’m not afraid to share my honest opinion. If you ask me a question and want an honest answer, I will give you an honest answer. I’ve been told that it’s because I’m from the north (North New Jersey), but I would argue that I’m transparent. What you see is what you get. Most people appreciate the fact that I don’t sugarcoat things…but I have found that it has gotten me into “trouble” here in the south (North Carolina). So much so that I’ve alienated myself from many colleagues at work because I’ve shared my thoughts with others when asked. In one meeting with colleagues several years ago, I was actually called a “bully” because I was so passionate about the Life Design Catalyst work that I’m doing at UNCG. To be honest, it seems that the MORE success I achieve with Life Design Catalyst work, the MORE alienated I become on campus, to the point that we have almost no support for LDC work on campus despite increases in retention AND graduation rates, as well as students stating increased clarity regarding academic, career, and life plans.
Once I turned 50 (and now that I’m only two years away from 60), I’m worried much less about what people think about me and focused more on what I can do to make my life more rewarding – and helping others do the same. It makes life so much easier; if I’m not serving myself and others well, nothing else I do makes a damn bit of difference!
Tough question today!
The Dream Dean 