Embracing Change: The First Step to Success
Change is inevitable. It happens to all of us, whether we expect it or not. A key factor in personal success is how we approach and adapt to change.
In an ever-evolving world, change can expand our vision and encourage us to embrace new opportunities with an open mind and a willingness to learn. But how can we ensure that we move forward instead of getting lost in uncertainty?
While we can’t always predict the future, having a strategic plan can make all the difference. You might be thinking, “Why do I need a plan when everything seems to be falling apart?”
The answer lies in strategic planning—it’s not just about having a plan, but about having the right plan for your unique situation. Think of it like a travel itinerary: If you’re on a seven-day dream vacation, you plan activities to maximize your time and budget. But if you stumble upon an unexpected gem along the way, would you skip it? Of course not! Having a plan doesn’t mean limiting flexibility; it means staying focused while adapting to the changing world around you.
This week, our mentors, Lisa and Chris Taylor, shared valuable insights on two essential principles: navigating change and strategic planning. Let’s dive into their lessons.
Lessons from the Mentors – Change Management and Planning
1. Navigating Change with Confidence
Change is often beyond our control, but our response to it isn’t. Confidence is an essential skill for managing change effectively.
Confidence doesn’t mean being 100% certain of the outcome. Instead, it means believing in your ability to navigate challenges, learn from experiences, and grow stronger.
Chris Taylor’s career is a perfect example. He made a major shift when he decided to work with students in higher education. Over the years, he has worked at two universities and in the private sector, focusing on health, wellness, and hospital system marketing. Today, he helps first-generation college students, low-income students, and students with disabilities successfully navigate their academic journeys.
Chris’s journey is a reminder that it’s never too late to make a career change or pursue your passion. If you’re at a crossroads in your life or career, take inspiration from Chris—believe in yourself and take the leap!
2. Strategic Planning: The Key to Success
If you’re about to make a big change in your life, do you have a plan? You may have a goal and believe in yourself, but without a strategy, you risk being like a sailor lost at sea, carried away by the currents.
The key to effective strategic planning is adapting to your circumstances while ensuring your plan covers all necessary aspects of your goal. Keep it simple yet comprehensive.
A popular method for strategic planning is the SMART framework, which stands for:
- Specific – What exactly do you want to achieve?
- Measurable – How will you track your progress?
- Actionable – What concrete steps will you take?
- Relevant – Why is this goal important?
- Time-based – What is your deadline?
By answering these questions, you set yourself up for success. Having a well-thought-out plan allowed Lisa and Chris to advance in their careers while managing life’s unpredictable changes. Their approach to strategic planning helped them stay on track and move forward with confidence.
Meet the Mentors: Lisa & Chris Taylor
The Taylors bring a wealth of experience and wisdom to students.
Lisa, originally from St. George, Utah, has worked in various industries, including tech and high-tech software businesses. She currently works in the HRVST Chef’s Market division for Innovative Food Holdings, connecting top chefs and restaurants with high-quality farm and seafood products. She is also the Chief Operating Director of a nonprofit organization supporting young women (ages 15-25) who have experienced emotional trauma. Beyond her career, Lisa is a lifelong learner, an avid reader, and a dedicated mother of three.
Chris, from Salt Lake City, Utah, is passionate about education and storytelling. As mentioned earlier, he now works directly with students in higher education, particularly first-generation, low-income, and disabled students. Before that, he had a career rooted in university marketing, public relations, and communications.
With their impressive backgrounds, Lisa and Chris are now using their experiences to mentor and inspire students on their personal and professional journeys.
Key Takeaways from the Mentors
Lisa and Chris shared several valuable insights with students:
✅ Focus on relationships and personal growth. Instead of just “doing,” prioritize “becoming.” True transformation starts from within.
✅ Take risks and embrace the present. Chris took a leap of faith in his career, and his journey is proof that change can lead to new opportunities. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone!
Student Reflections: What We Learned
Three of our students shared their insights after an inspiring session with the Taylors:
Alison Hannah (USA): “The mentors taught us how to successfully plan for the future and keep moving forward! They did so in such an enthusiastic and creative way.”
Tayná Ribeiro (Brazil): “They taught me that there isn’t one script for life, and the best strategies come from overcoming the hardest challenges.”
Daria Titarenko (Ukraine): “A fascinating story of two young people who have gained years of experience and built a strong marriage.”
A Final Message of Inspiration
After an incredible time on campus, we asked the Taylors for their final message to Cumorah Academy students:
💡 Chris’s Advice: Discover your passion and pursue it fearlessly.
💡 Lisa’s Advice: Stay close to God, and He will guide your journey.
Faith is central to our mission at Cumorah Academy. We encourage every student to grow closer to God and embrace His love as they navigate their future. What a powerful way to conclude the Taylors’ time with us!
Your Next Step Begins at Cumorah Academy
Change management and strategic planning are just a few of the topics we cover at Cumorah Academy. If you learned something valuable from this post, imagine what you could gain in an entire week!
Could you see yourself learning from incredible mentors like Lisa and Chris every week? At Cumorah Academy, we’re eager to welcome students who are ready to grow and develop their full potential.
Your journey starts here! Apply now for Cumorah Academy and take the first step toward transforming your future!
Written by Fernando L. Ferreira Jr.
Photos by Felipe Carrillo
Supervision by Kamila Uberto Fullmer
