1. What are three things you wish you’d known as you embarked on your career:
Only one… That it was going to be my career and not just "something I’m doing until I get my REAL job”. A sooner realization of my career path would have opened my mind to receive more lessons and wisdom from the people I worked with. I’ve always had a sound work ethic, I just would have been more professionally structured with my approach to learning in this industry.
2. Did you have a mentor? If so, what was the most important piece of advice they gave you?
To never devalue myself or my work.
3. How did/do you handle work/life balance?
It's an ongoing struggle to balance the efforts and energy put into both your professional and personal lives. I’m fortunate to love what I do, but one of the dangers of loving what you do is the crossover of professional life into personal life, or the impact it can have on a relationship when the efforts aren’t felt to be equaled in both. Having at least one passion outside of your career will make you a more effective worker, a better teammate and a more desirable human being to be around. I have an amazing partner in my wife where I am supported and our passions overlap with food, wine and whisky. Outside of work/love I like to spend time in the mountains, camping, hiking, fishing or just being. And we have our dogs who bring sheer joy to our hearts and keep us humble, because I still have to pick up their poop.
4. Do you have any suggestions of books, articles, websites, etc. that might help a young professional?
Charlie Trotter’s Lessons in Service
Danny Meyer’s Setting the Table
Though, both are meant for the hospitality industry, the lessons taught apply in all industries.
5. How important is it to be involved in organizations outside of work (church, networking, philanthropy, alumni, athletics, etc.)? Why?
Early on in your career it’s vital. It exposes you to other relationships, other team dynamics, forces you into roles that may be out of your comfort zone, or maybe it’s a release or a way to channel a strength that hasn’t been utilized yet in your career. It’s also the best way to keep your professional life from becoming the source of your personal life.
6. What do you love about Sacramento?
I love that it’s sense of community has just grown stronger as Sacramento has grown bigger.
7. Is there anything else you’d like to tell the 40 and under business professionals in our region?
Drink better, not more.
