When did you take your first stand?

Do you remember the first time you stood up for what you believed in or wanted?

A moment that comes to mind was when I was in the 8th grade.

I needed to decide which High School I would attend. The easiest choice would've been attending the school assigned to my neighborhood, which most of my friends were attending. It was close, and I would already know people there - I wouldn't have to make as many new friends.

I was curious and excited about computers and technology. I learned I could attend Carl Hayden High, which focused on those topics, but this school was in a rough part of town, over 10 miles away, and I'd have to make new friends. I had one friend who said he'd be going there, too, so at least I'd know one person.

I had a mix of emotions and thoughts. Making friends was difficult for me, and it gave me anxiety. I was scared that this new opportunity wouldn't work out and that I'd regret wasting my time and energy. I heard nothing good about this school from my friends. The friend I mentioned earlier said it was like going to Mexico, meaning it had primarily Hispanic students. I thought that if I attended, I'd learn some Spanish, if nothing else.

Maybe you've been there? You have an exciting and scary opportunity in front of you, and a flurry of what if's and thoughts of self-doubt begin to creep in - loudly!

I told my Mom I wanted to go there, and she submitted the paperwork. Thanks, Mom. She told me I needed to figure out how to get back and forth. I researched and found the bus routes that I needed.

My friend was right, the 2000-student school had over 90%, Hispanic students, with Blacks and Whites in the minority. After the first week, he decided to go back to the other school. I was on my own.

I noticed something while sitting in my first programming class. I was one of the only people of color in the room. I was proud of myself for doing what it took to get there. Courage looked good on me! It felt good too!

All of my life, I have taken the other path. The other path is the path that's in line with my truth, what I believe, and what I want. This path requires sacrifice, is often lonely, and has given me a sense of freedom and built my confidence.

I now hold a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Information Systems, an MBA, and multiple technology certifications, invested 15+ years working in and around technology. I've even become debt-free, and it all began with me saying yes to and committing to an opportunity that scared me.

Are you walking down the other path or the easy path? Are being all of you or waiting for the right time and place?

Let's be honest. There's something you want right now that scares the hell out of you.

I'd love to hear about the first time you stood up for what you believed in and

wanted.

Comment or email me at hello@shermainmelton.com.

Be courageous.

Shermain.