RISING GEN

CARE TO learN about my rising gen story? read on.

from one rising gen to another

I was born into a loving, religious, traditional family. I was raised in a safe, middle-income neighborhood. On the surface, all of my basic needs were met. However, looking back, I struggled to feel a sense of belonging, I didn’t feel seen as an individual, and I regularly felt judged by my peers (and their parents). Some of my childhood experiences are probably common and very relatable. Other experiences may only be relatable to individuals with families like mine.

I had no say in the matter, but I was born into a family that created generational wealth. I am grateful for all of the opportunities and unique experiences this has created for me and my family. I didn’t realize it growing up, but I learned so many great life and business lessons sitting at the dinner table and in casual family conversations. I learned the importance of valuing all people regardless of their role, title, background, or income level. I learned that integrity, a strong work ethic, and a bit of luck create opportunities for long-term value creation. I learned how the entrepreneurial spirit and growing companies can be a force for positive change in individuals, families, and communities. I learned that with great resources come great responsibility.

My Dad was a Co-Founder and CEO of a rapidly growing trucking company throughout most of my life. The company was started in 1990, went public in 1994, and is now the industry’s largest full truckload carrier serving a wide range of customers in a broad array of industries. As a Rising Gen individual, I have had a front row seat to the opportunities and challenges of the business.

I also experienced the complexity of financial success. There are certain realities to this experience that are often overlooked: finding personal identity; navigating amplified relationship dynamics; pursuing a life of contribution; paralysis by possibility; isolation; and fear of not living up to expectations. This is complicated by our society’s false belief that more money = more happiness.

I wasn’t always aware of the emotional impact of family wealth. As I became an adult, started my career and family, and began navigating life, I became overwhelmed. I went from high achieving to depressed. I was overcome with confusion, pain, and general apathy. I loved my wife and young daughter, yet I couldn’t connect or show up for them the way I wanted. I had thrived at work, but was no longer able to work. While not a pleasant experience, this sparked something deep inside of me to seek help. So, towards the end of 2007 I started my healing journey. This journey of learning, gaining awareness, and seeking to be more conscious continues today and will continue throughout my lifetime.

As I reflect on the last 15+ years, I can clearly see that I am intentionally building my own life, pursuing work that is meaningful, and positively engaging in the world. All while honoring where I came from and being a good steward of resources. I am humbled by and deeply grateful for my life journey. 

I share my story with the hope that others can benefit. Maybe it gives you permission to explore your inner workings, to finally sign up for therapy, to go to that retreat that keeps getting put off, or to hire a coach. There isn’t a one size fits all path. Whatever you do, take action, even if it's just a step.