Code of Culture
Culture plays such a vital role in our daily lives and decisions. When I was a police officer, culture permeated my identity. From the academy, you are brought into the fold. You earn the respect of your brothers and sisters and you are provided a seat at the table. You go through so much together. The hours. The overtime. The laughs. And the tears. It becomes an overwhelming feeling and for many officers, it defines their sense of self. It's not uncommon to be at work and look forward to time off only to get to your time off and look forward to when you can go back to work. The anticipation of what may happen is palpable and electric, and you have the sense of being needed. Suiting up, working a beat, and making a difference in your small corner of the world felt worthwhile and exciting.
It's a constant battle to find our place in the world. To find things that fulfill our purpose. Often, goals may shift and require a reevaluation of focus. This is when there is an opportunity for change happens. When I left policing, I was most worried about losing the culture and the camaraderie that I felt so strongly about.
Two and a half years later, I have a new purpose. A new team. A new lifestyle. A new culture. I frequently reflect on times past and the benefits of being part of such great organizations. Those experiences laid the foundation for growth allowing me to land my current role. I have found a different type of camaraderie, but it's just as strong.
You must take the step if you wish to start the journey. You must take the leap to take flight. Oftentimes, we get so caught up in thinking that we are too old or uneducated or unqualified that we don't even put ourselves out there for fear of rejection. Or we are scared of what happens if we get it.
It is scary to jump. But oftentimes, it is having the courage to pursue something that separates the wannabes from the doers. You may find yourself surrounded by a team more advanced and supportive than you could have imagined. You may succeed beyond your wildest dreams. But you will never get anywhere you want to be unless you have the courage to jump head first.
Culture is a construct of placement and structure. Luckily, we as humans routinely adapt to our surroundings. This means that we are able to mold ourselves to the culture that is around us. It is not an identity, it allows buy-in and change. When we find ourselves among those who are like-minded and striving toward a common goal, the culture lives through the work. The camaraderie I found in policing was unparalleled until I found a new team that operated differently but ultimately gave me the same sense of placement and belonging. If you don't have that, find it. Or build it. Start your business. Build your team. Pursue what your heart's drum beats to. Bleed the culture. The rest will sort itself and the culture will not feel like a concept, but a home.
