One thing I am sure of is that success rarely occurs in a direct path. I am aware of this because I frequently reflect on my past achievements. A successful career in formal journalism. Recognition in my university’s Journalism Hall of Fame. Starting Orlando Tech News and securing the support needed to sustain it. None of these things happened in a linear manner. They all came after overcoming unexpected obstacles and persevering when things seemed bleak.
But that’s where the gratitude for the journey arises. As I find myself in the midst of another venture, striving to propel Orlando Tech News to greater success, I wanted to initiate a tradition. And you can’t establish a tradition without Year 1. So, with that in mind, let’s introduce a new feature.
On this day after Thanksgiving, I present to you Orlando Tech News’ inaugural “10 Things We Are Grateful For,” in no specific order. We will begin with the journey and the lessons I have gained along the way, which have transformed me into a more versatile professional who is constantly evolving. Despite hearing from entrepreneurs for years that learning from mistakes as well as successes is essential for building a business, I didn’t fully grasp this concept until recently. The journey is ongoing, but I am grateful for the lessons learned thus far.
Our subscribers, sponsors, and collaborators, without whom Orlando Tech News would not be possible and may have led to a return to Chicago. I am not exaggerating. It’s the truth. Individuals in the community who continue to have big dreams and believe in Orlando’s potential to be a leader in the tech industry. I am connected with some visionaries and I am eager to help bring some of those dreams to fruition. I am excited for the coming year.
My close circle of informal advisers (whom I consider friends), who have assisted me in navigating the business side of my endeavor. The medical team at AdventHealth, who cared for me after a health scare earlier this year. Without them, I shudder to think of the outcome.
My family in the Chicago suburbs. It’s not easy to strike out on your own when you come from a family of traditional workers. But part of my drive to turn this entrepreneurial journey into a success is to set an example for my nieces and nephews that it’s okay to forge your own path. I am grateful for their unwavering support and sometimes tough-love advice.
Location. Location. Location. Residing in Orlando, I am at the crossroads of numerous technology-driven industries that enrich my storytelling journey with diversity and interest.
I don’t know where it originates from, but one thing I am thankful for is my genuine curiosity about the world, which leads to numerous content ideas, some of which will be unveiled in early 2025.
I am a sports enthusiast and I am grateful for a diversion that provides a reprieve from challenging days. As a former athlete, I appreciate that my father and brother instilled in me a love for sports and competition. It occasionally influences my work, but not in a detrimental manner.
Lastly, the final entry in my inaugural list of things I am grateful for is technology. In 2025, nothing is out of reach because technology makes it attainable. I have witnessed many blogs, websites, YouTube channels, etc., succeed and become lucrative income sources for many individuals. It’s wonderful to dream realistically with the help of technology. Will one of my ventures achieve that level of success? Only time will tell, but I am grateful for the opportunity to dream because technology levels the playing field.
So there you have it. The first-ever gratitude list. I wish you all a joyful and safe holiday season. I look forward to seeing you in the future!
