Editorial: Success can be a result of patience, not pursuit

There are times in life when people want a quick turnaround. Whether it’s a quick way to make an extra dollar or a fast track to get promoted, we all want to be successful and reap the benefits of that success. But sometimes, taking it slow and being patient can be true meaning of being the recipient of success.

When we are young, there is often that person or idea that we discover that gives us motivation to seek our dream job. What that inspiration doesn’t show us is that it takes a lot of work to get there. When I was younger, I wanted to become a scientist. As time passed, I didn’t know what field I would work if I continued to follow that path. My dream of being a scientist didn’t fade, but it wasn’t my interest any longer.

Even in college, I knew what my intended major was, but didn’t know what I’d do with my degree. I knew I enjoyed sports broadcasting and writing, and I wanted to follow that career. But being realistic, I knew that it would take tremendous work to get to that place along with knowing which way to go to have the availability to find that niche. I worked for my college’s radio station and newspaper in hopes to open the door. And while that door didn’t open, it led me back to coaching and education.

In 2012, I received that break to become a writer for where I am today, the New Kent-Charles City Chronicle. I’ve written sporadically for the newspaper before then, but I finally saw that the path provided to me was now opened to be successful in the field of journalism and media. I started simple with covering sports before transitioning into government and court coverage. Feature stories were next and now, I am blessed to be in the position where I am today.

There are several examples that I can point out that success will come by staying diligent and doing the right things. From Jarell Christian’s journey from Division III basketball player to assistant coach to the turnaround of both New Kent girls’ basketball and Charles City boys’ basketball programs over a span of years, it is a lot of work. Quick fixes won’t provide happiness but experiencing a journey with those who pushed you and motivated you along the way will.