A Story of Resilience, Growth and Gratitude
On September 30th 2022, I officially retired from the US Navy after 22 years of service. As I reflect on my journey, I realize that it has been a period of immense professional and personal growth. I experienced the highs, lows, setbacks and achievements. I also formed lifelong bonds with my military family and those I met along the way across the globe that will last a lifetime.
Lesson Learned along the Way
Throughout my military career, I faced numerous challenges that tested my resilience and determination. I encountered disappointments and obstacles that no book, movie, or story could have prepared me for. But with each challenge, I adapted and overcame, discovering the strength within myself and the unwavering support of my fellow service members. I am incredibly grateful for personal and professional opportunities the Navy/military at large afforded me. I have no regrets, as every experience has shaped my personal and professional growth; but most importantly it’s shaped my perspective in looking at life with multiple lenses to make informed decisions.
Conclusion: An addition to a new chapter
In closing, as I look back on my 22 years of service in the US Navy. I am filled with gratitude and I can say with certainty that "experience has been my best teacher," and I do not have any regrets on my personal and professional trajectory.
New Chapter: Same passion
Almost a year after retirement, I have had some long and restful days, started globe-trotting to see family and friends, and completely checked off all I had on my bucket list. I then started to miss my career. I not only loved my job, I was passionate about it and missed what I did. Lack of structure, consistency and no sense of direction grew and gave way to restlessness. That’s when I went into overdrive with employment applications hoping it would help give me a sense of purpose; yet I declined every officer I received not exactly knowing the underlying reasons for the “whys”. I kept declining job offers that in some cases I spent days customizing my resumes to apply. Eventually joining like-minded group discussions gave me the realization; the best fit is to go into business for myself so I can offer a variety of interconnected and interdependent services and solutions that improves and sustains organizations and its employees. Hence Mavis Brown Consulting LLC was established. The mission is to assist organizations to align their mission, vision, values and goals with their employees to drive up productivity and sustainability.
Why it Matters: Assessment & Alignment
In 15 of my 22 year career, I had the privilege of taking on multiple roles and positions. Each assignment came with its own unique set of responsibilities and challenges. With Six career transfers under my belt, I can first-hand attest, no two organizations, departments and businesses are alike, and that includes the same organizations with multiple locations and same operations. Therefore, a customized approach that seeks to assess and align organizations mission and values with employee’s growth, development and productivity is the best-proven results vice the “cookie cutter” approach.
