From Chaos to Clarity: My Journey to Leadership and Purpose

It was 1984, and I had just turned 18. My home life was a whirlwind of chaos and dysfunction, pushing me to seek not just an escape but a deeper sense of purpose and meaning. Looking back, I yearned for a father's guidance, but he was distant, trapped in his battle with alcoholism. My grandmother, ever hopeful, pushed for college, but my high school performance did not secure me a scholarship. With few options, I enlisted in the United States Marine Corps.

Serving for four years, I returned to civilian life feeling adrift until I met a kind-hearted older woman working as a security guard. She invited me to her church, where the teachings were intellectually stimulating in ways I had never experienced. Here, I found my calling: I believed I was meant to be a church planter. Over the next 25 years, I dedicated myself to learning and training for ministry, earning four degrees:

·         A Bachelor's in Theology

·         A Master of Arts in Theological Studies

·         A Bachelor of Science in Accounting

·         An MBA in Management and Strategy

However, my journey took an unexpected turn. My entrepreneurial spirit clashed with traditional church hierarchies, and my preference for a Pentecostal approach to teaching did not resonate with everyone. During this time, I married, but my wife did not share my vision for ministry. Our marriage ended abruptly when she claimed divine guidance to divorce me. This was my breaking point; I left organized religion, though my faith remained unshaken.

At 50, with my life's direction once again in question, I decided to pursue further education. After extensive research, I chose to study for a Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology, completing my doctorate just before turning 58. My dissertation delved into leadership development, a passion that had endured through my tumultuous journey.

Now, after a lifetime of leadership roles and research, I have finally found clarity in my purpose. My path has been unconventional, filled with trials and transformations, but it has led me here—to share insights on leadership, inspire others, and perhaps help you find your purpose amidst life's chaos.