How on earth did I get here? The path to MindYOUInc.

There are few straight lines in anyone's career path these days. Here's the story of my own twisted journey.

Once upon a time, driven purely by a passion to understand the human mind and to improve the human condition, I pursued an academic path all the way to a PhD in Neuroscience from Harvard University. I learned SO much – in knowledge, skills AND experience. Regrettably, that understanding the human mind thing remains a work in progress....

From there I took a path less travelled, driven by a slightly more focused passion to understand the academic mind and its institutions. I honestly wanted to change the world and to champion the power of knowledge and research in serving society. I built and enjoyed a highly successful, fifteen-year career as a senior executive leader in the higher education and research sector. I discovered that real change takes patience, persistence, and a focus on the long game. Stamina was key as I took up the challenge with passion and enthusiasm.

I spent those fifteen years being alternately amazed and dismayed by that all I witnessed. So much amazing potential realized! It was a privilege to be part off. But there were also way too many opportunities lost, left on the table, trampled upon or never given a voice.

Any career in or around academia – research, scholarship, teaching, administration or management – is clearly an amazing opportunity, an honour and a privilege.

It is also a tough, competitive, resource-constrained and occasionally soul-crushing gig.

And just like the rest of the world it's an environment on the fast-track to change.

So what’s next in my career adventure?

I remain driven by a desire to honour, champion and help sustain the dedication, intelligence, creativity and altruism that are the hallmarks of the higher education and research enterprise… and of those remarkable leaders who bring it to life in its most virtuous form.

And so as 2017 dawns and with some fresh perspective and executive coaching credentials from Royal Roads University under my belt... and I like to hope a little wisdom to share, born of both study and experience... I am pursuing a new mission.

To support and empower leaders across academia - across all career paths and career stages - as they tackle head-on some of the toughest challenges they face and find fulfilment in their professional accomplishments.

And by leaders, I mean YOU. Because leadership is not a position. It’s a life choice. One that anyone can make.

I’ve launched MindYOUInc. (www.mindyouinc.com) as my vehicle for this new journey. I hope you’ll come along for the ride and take advantage of the very practical benefits of coaching as you pursue your own objectives.

I encourage you to take advantage of a complimentary coaching session and to check out www.mindyouinc.com to learn about other services offered.

Discover how MindYOUInc. can help you tackle your next big challenge.

And this adventure will continue...