My grandfather and at the Abraham House hospice in Utica, NY a few weeks prior to his passing.
Relational success, acting as my compass in both personal and professional realms, weaves a tapestry of connections—from the warmth of family bonds to the nuanced dance between employer and employee. This guiding principle stood out prominently during a pivotal moment: the poignant final weeks of my grandfather’s life, reshaping my understanding of relationships.
In today’s professional world, the term “relational success” often takes a backseat to tangible markers like financial success. It’s an understated concept, overshadowed by bottom lines, yet it encapsulates the immeasurable value of authentic connections.
Relational success transcends transactions and alliances; it’s about fostering genuine human connections that go beyond the workplace. It involves creating an environment where individuals feel seen, heard, and valued for more than just their professional roles.
For nearly three decades, visits with my grandfather manifested as cherished talks, fishing, and card games—threads forming a profound connection. The fear of losing him wasn’t just rooted in acknowledging his fragile mortality but bidding farewell to enduring comfort, guidance, and love.
During a foundational time in my career, he was diagnosed with a meningioma brain tumor. Residing 3,000 miles away in NV while he faced medical challenges in upstate NY heightened emotional complexity.
Navigating the role of a full-time therapist at All About You Counseling brought forth cultural emphasis on work. Taking time off seemed daunting, given societal priorities and financial implications. Requesting an extended leave posed a dilemma, spotlighting the intricate balance between personal needs and professional obligations.
In February, during my grandfather’s surgery, emotional challenges surfaced. Balancing granddaughter and therapist responsibilities created pressures, demanding resilience in the intricate dance between personal and professional roles.
Tonie, a savvy businesswoman, crafted a company that instilled a sense of pride in me. Her guidance left an indelible mark, shaping my trajectory as a businesswoman, boss, and company founder. On the other hand, Kimberly, in her role as the clinical director, provided invaluable insights into therapeutic work shaping me as a therapist, and relational human.
Their profound influence extended beyond the professional realm. Their teachings highlighted the significance of clients, personal well-being, and relationships. When faced with the decision to be with my grandfather during a challenging time, Tonie and Kimberly played pivotal roles. Their holistic perspective, rooted in compassion, not only guided my personal choices but also left a lasting impact on the fabric of my professional life.
The decision to take time off proved a strategic choice for the business and its clients. Investing in personal and emotional health ensured a return rejuvenated and better equipped to provide quality therapeutic services. This pause allowed a recharge, enhancing empathy with clients.
Transparent communication fostered trust with clients and colleagues, underscoring values of authenticity. The time away, initially perceived as a disruption, became an investment in the business’s longevity. Emphasis on well-being contributed to a healthier workforce and reinforced a compassionate and client-centered approach.
Experiencing the poignant final weeks of my grandfather’s life transcended impact; it was a transformative journey reframing an initially unbearable loss into a narrative of profound farewell. Every conversation, hug, and kiss etched indelible imprints, forming cherished memories resonating within my family.
These moments weren’t just parting; they were a lifetime of love and wisdom into an unbreakable bond. Navigating the delicate dance of saying goodbye became a brushstroke painting the canvas of our shared history. This personal journey, deeply connected with the challenges of work and life, extends beyond a mere sequence of events. It became a transformative experience where grief, love, and resilience converged, shaping the person I am today.
Relational success, surpassing my roles as a human, an employee, and a boss, now forms the essence of my leadership—an approach grounded in empathy, understanding, and an unwavering commitment to recognizing and valuing each individual within our organizational fabric.
The journey toward relational success is dynamic, an ongoing interplay between the personal and the professional, the human and the boss. It is a continuous dance, shaping not only our workplace dynamics but also capturing the very essence of our lives.
In my pursuit of being a compassionate and understanding founder, I’ve come to humbly recognize the profound impact of meaningful connections. It’s more than the professional realm; it’s about cultivating an environment where individuals are seen, heard, and valued for the unique qualities that define them. It’s an opportunity to craft a narrative of success not solely measured by financial metrics but enriched by the depth of human connections, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to growth and well-being. II strive to cultivate relational success at AMR Therapy and extend its benefits to our clients. The connection I shared with my grandfather is a testament to the enduring nature of relational success, transcending even the boundaries of death.
