Bloom Where You’re Planted

“Bloom where you’re planted.” I’ve always thought this was good advice, but when I really think about it, even the hardiest of plants can’t flourish if the environment isn’t right.

This came to mind when I heard about my godson’s struggles. Freshly out of one of the best hospitality schools, he began applying for jobs. With his degree, a desire to serve and a passion for learning and growth, he stood out as an ideal candidate. He also had the extra advantage of having traveled often with his parents, enjoying the luxury-hotel experience firsthand.

He had especially high hopes for a position at a hotel in Las Vegas. He was very disappointed when he didn’t land the job and berated himself for not drumming up enough enthusiasm for the interview. He became depressed and disillusioned

From the outside looking in, I could see that he was just not a Vegas kind of guy. It wasn’t that he lacked enthusiasm, but rather that his personality, simply wasn’t a fit for the Vegas lifestyle. He’s subtle, low key, and artistic, not exactly words that describe a casino. He also loves the outdoors, having spent his formative years in Arkansas, fishing, climbing, kayaking and sailing. Vegas is, by and large, an inside job. He might have held a position there, but chances are, he wouldn’t have done much “blooming.”

Fortunately, not long after this disappointment, he landed a job at an Aman Resort  known for its serene natural setting, hiking, river boat tours and fly-fishing—the perfect place for him to shine and grow! In turn, he’s an ideal fit for the resort. Educated candidates with luxury-hotel experience from a guests perspective, a working knowledge of the outdoors and an artistic perspective on the beauties of nature don’t walk through the door every day.

I shared with him these thoughts: As we mature, we realize how our unique set of experiences combine and conspire to make us who we are and lead us exactly where we need to go. He is lucky to be making these discoveries in his 20s, as he begins to navigate the twists and turns of adult life. For some of us, it takes awhile, and we may not always know—or like—the path we’re traveling. There may be disappointment. It takes self-awareness to understand how even the rockiest and most circuitous paths can lead us to the right place, while giving us the strength and wisdom we need to flourish there.

Can we bloom wherever we’re planted? The answer is “yes,” if we put our heart and soul into it; yet we may never truly flourish (reach our potential) there—anymore than would a begonia under the blazing sun, If you’re not blooming where you find yourself, gain all you can from the experience and persevere. Consider how the disparate aspects of your life are joining forces to lead you to a place you love. Oh, and in the meantime, don’t forget to enjoy the journey.