The Genesis of Unconventionality – Tracing the Roots of Innovation

My Early Awakening to Unconventionality

My journey into the heart of unconventionality began not in the throes of my professional career but in the quiet, reflective moments of my early life. Adopted six weeks after being orphaned, the seeds of my quest for identity and understanding were sown amidst the backdrop of a profound curiosity about the world and my place within it.

This curiosity wasn’t just a fleeting interest; it was a burning desire to explore, to question, and to understand the layers of life that lay hidden beneath the surface of conventional paths. I found the ‘thoughtmosphere’ to be a wonderful place to meander and play, especially enjoyable in the company of others.

The Spark of Innovation

As I ventured into the world, my path was anything but linear. I found myself drawn to opportunities that challenged the status quo, whether it was through the creation of Be the Dream, LLC, Team Partnering, LLC, United We Stand Productions, LLC, or other ventures that sought to bridge the gap between diverse communities and innovative solutions.

Each project was a leap into the unknown, a testament to the belief that within chaos lies the potential for order and within questions, the seeds of answers. Honestly, I didn’t know what I couldn’t do, so it made it easier to attempt things from that perspective with the radical curiosity of a child, outside the ‘traditional’ realms of command-and-control environments of last century and prior. We are crafting a ‘new normal’ as we re-establish priorities.

Building Community Through Innovation

One of my most significant undertakings was the involvement with Native Americans in the redevelopment of the Indian School in Phoenix. This project wasn’t just about the physical transformation of a space; it was about honoring the rich tapestry of stories, cultures, and histories that the land held. It was a lesson in listening, in empathy, and in the power of collaborative innovation to create solutions that respect and integrate the needs of all stakeholders, Native and non-Native.

I was invited to be the note taker for the Phoenix Indian School Preservation Coalition, made up of representatives from 18 of 21 Tribes in Arizona. Little did I know that would require addressing the Mayor, City Council and Parks and Recreations Planning Subcommittee multiple times over several years. All but one of the items for inclusion happened yet, the Coalition was never mentioned in the final write up of the Specific Plan and its development.

Reflections on Personal Growth

Each step of my journey, each venture, and each challenge, has been a stepping stone towards deeper self-understanding and professional growth. From navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship to engaging in community-building projects, every experience has contributed to my evolving perspective on innovation, leadership, and resilience.

In my late 20s, during my first corporate position as a Production Control Coordinator in the aerospace industry, I spearheaded initiatives that significantly exceeded $7MM monthly shipping goals for aircraft spare parts. My advocacy for interpersonal skills development, despite personal and professional adversities, including a demotion and personal life challenges, led to a transformative proposal that was initially met with resistance. Ultimately, my departure preceded the company-wide adoption of these practices, marking a bittersweet validation of my impactful contributions to the corporate culture and operational efficiency.

Embracing the Unconventional Path

I’ve danced with unconventionality, stepping beyond the familiar rhythms of tradition and expectation. Actually, I’m a prog drummer, too, another talent I’ve exercised occasionally. You know, the one that plays to a different beat and loves improv more than standards, with dynamic and rich fills perfectly timed in the musical conversations that often turn magical.

Each step, each leap into the unknown, was not a departure from the path, more a creation of my own trail that, at first, was quite tumultuous. It wasn’t about rejecting the past, it was harvesting it and embracing the future with open arms and heart, crafting a life uniquely mine.

My adventures into the uncharted realms of creativity and innovation were not acts of rebellion but affirmations of my belief in the boundless potential within each of us to redefine the possible. This unconventional path I’ve tread has taught me that our greatest achievements often lie just beyond the edge of uncertainty.

So, I invite you to join me in this dance of defiance against the conventional. Let’s view each challenge not as a barrier but as a canvas for our creativity, each obstacle an opportunity to innovate. If I can do it, so can you. It’s fun!

I encourage you to embrace your unique talents, perspectives, and passions. Use them to paint your life’s masterpiece, a vibrant testament to the power of unconventionality, non-linearity and passion-filled activities that flow like water.

As I reflect on the journey thus far, I’m reminded of the importance of embracing one’s unique path, of the transformative power of living unconventionally. It’s a path that requires courage, curiosity, and an unwavering commitment to exploration and growth.

Together, let’s prove that when we dare to be different, we unlock the potential to create not just a meaningful personal and professional life, but a brighter world for all. This book being in your hands now is a serendipitous synchronicity waiting to unfold as you continue explore the unconventionality for you.