My dad couldn’t have done it alone. I can count 7 different men that set me on a path to success from a young age. My father, Chris and Tim, my first two leaders in the church, Chris, my scoutmaster, Chris, my first boss (Yes these are all different Chris’s), Dustin, one of my teachers, and Dave, my current boss. Every single one of these men were mentors to me. Now, at 23 years old. I run a small business that I am poised to take over in just a few short years. I would not be in the position I am in today without each of these men.
My father taught me how to keep going when life throws you punches, how to stand up when things keep you down. Chris F. and Tim taught me how to communicate and be vulnerable. How to help uplift those around me. Chris J. taught me how to lead my peers, and taught me critical problem-solving skills I could apply on a daily basis. Chris T. taught me business leadership skills, and showed me that anyone, whether they were 16 years old, or 65 years old, has the capacity to lead in business. Dustin taught me that just because my abilities in school didn’t shine, my practical skills were still seen. Dave taught me how to handle a loss, and proved to me that a 23-year-old can be the best of the best in their field, whether they are young or not.
I did not seek any of these men out, I didn’t ask for mentors and opportunities to learn, they found me where I was. As a young man, I did not have the capacity to tell these adult leaders I wanted to learn, I didn’t think they would give me the time of day, and yet at every turn, they took their time to develop me as an individual, as a leader, and as a community member. As men, it is our responsibility to seek out young men, to invest in them, to encourage them, and walk alongside them. Every man in my life played a different role. My dad couldn’t have done it alone.
Josh Echerd
General Manager-My Baby Detailing
A Man IN Action
PS: If you’re looking for a way to bring your mentorship into action, join us for our annual Men IN Action Breakfast on October 5. You can register here.
Join us for Breakfast!
Men, we invite you to join us for our annual Men IN Action Breakfast on October 5 at MADE@Plainfield! Come enjoy a delicious breakfast and hear from Mark Fairchild as he shares his personal story and the impact of authenticity.
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