Pain to Purpose - Part 2

Rediscovering My Values

In my first article, I shared how challenges like hyperacusis and unresolved childhood trauma forced me to pause and re-evaluate my life. What I didn’t share was the profound realization that came during this time: I had lost sight of my values—or perhaps, I never truly knew them.

For years, my life was defined by action. From military progression and teamwork to leading in aviation, I focused on achieving, solving problems, and helping others. But when my career was abruptly halted, I felt unmoored. It wasn’t just the physical and mental pain that weighed me down; it was a deeper sense of disconnection, like I was adrift without a compass.

The turning point came during a session with my psychologist. She asked me a deceptively simple question: “What do you value most in life?” I froze. I couldn’t answer. My focus had always been external—on leadership, results, and outcomes. But what about me? What principles guided my life?

Over time, I uncovered the values that had quietly woven through every chapter of my life: empathy, connection, and growth. These weren’t just ideals; they were the threads that tied together my experiences—from supporting fellow soldiers to mentoring pilots and, now, coaching.

If there’s one lesson I’ve learned through my journey, it’s this: Our values aren’t just words; they’re our compass. Losing sight of them leaves us adrift, but rediscovering them can transform our lives.

 So, I’ll leave you with this question: What do you value most in life, and are you living in alignment with those values?