No matter how much we want to separate work and personal the truth is we are one person, with one life and every area of our being is intertwined in some way… regardless of how skilled we think we are at compartmentalizing.

This lack of dichotomy often causes issues in one area of our life to affect everything else; if we have issues at work it can stress out home life, if we have issues at home it can result in poor performance at work and so on.

Conversely if we have breakthroughs in one sector, the progress and positive benefits also bleed into other areas of our life.

I learned this lesson while working with Derek on furthering my business. When I was introduced to him I knew instantly that I had met someone who was brilliant that I could learn a lot from. However, at the time I did not realize Derek would have such a monumental impact on my life and business.

He helped guide me in my journey of professional development but what I didn’t know was his mentorship and guidance also would help me through some of my personal struggles I didn’t realize were affecting me, or my business, as much as they were. There is no question that

Derek has the desire to help people as well as the skillset, knowledge, and experience needed to help anyone excel. But he is also supportive, honest and makes everyone around him better just for being there.

My business has improved but more importantly I have become a better person with the help of Derek and the impact he has made on me under his guidance.

I couldn’t be more grateful for Derek who has held me accountable, has provided a safe and non judgmental support system for me and has believed in me when I definitely wouldn’t have believed in myself.

Of course my journey, like everyone’s, is lifelong but I can honestly say I would not be where I am if Derek hadn’t spent the time and taken a chance on me.

Life is short and our journey through is tumultuous and everchanging but if you have the privilege to have Derek on your team you will have the tools to achieve your ideal life.

I am grateful to have Derek as a mentor and a friend and look forward to what’s to come in the future.