Walk through every door that opens

Never once as I considered my professional path did I imagine that one day I would find myself - a former social worker - the director of sales for a highly respected hotel in my community. How did it happen? Simply put: doors opened, and I walked through them.

As a young professional I didn't realize the influence I could have on my employer, my colleagues, or my community. Ten years ago while working for a non-profit in Cedar Rapids, I joined the young professional organization that became Impact CR. Walking into my first event, knowing literally no one, I decided to stay five minutes. If no one came over, I was out. That's when Quinn joined my table and introduced herself. Fast forward a few months and I was on the organization's board, helping other 'newbies” and together finding new ways that we could leave our imprint on our community. I think sometimes, when we are younger, we need just one person to recognize the potential within us in order for us to see it within ourselves.

Since then, doors have continued to open for me at various times. In all of my roles over the past 10 years, I've worked alongside the team at the Cedar Rapids Marriott. One day, almost four years ago, I found out my 'go to” catering director at the hotel was moving. Hotel leadership asked if I would consider taking over her role. I was speechless (which never happens). I didn't have a background in hospitality and couldn't imagine why they would think that I was the right person for the job. But here's what I quickly learned: At all times, in all interactions, we are being observed.

They saw in me something I hadn't yet seen in myself. My potential. My transferable talents. My ability to connect and build meaningful relationships. In the days that followed, I still questioned my own readiness for this massive career change. I think we all do this at times. We fear change. We fear failing. But I decided to take a leap of faith, and to trust that if others believed in me that perhaps it was time to believe in myself too.

So, I took on the role of director of catering at the Cedar Rapids Marriott. A couple of months ago, I took the position of director of sales - again, uncharted territory, and the fear of being not yet ready for the role. But encouraged by mentors and friends, I recalled how I felt at the start of my career and realized how far I'd come. I applied for the promotion. A door was opened, I walked through, and by believing in my own potential I was able to position myself for success in my new role.

All the passions that once drove me to become a social worker are the same reasons I'm motivated and inspired to lead today. Helping others see their own potential. Identifying opportunities to affect change. To positively influence others. As Simon Sinek says, 'Leadership is not about being in charge. Leadership is about taking care of those in your charge.”

As I look back at my own fears as a young”er” professional, I would share these final thoughts with those just beginning their professional journey. No one defines you but you! Your potential is endless. Make it known that you want to be challenged and that you want to grow. Volunteer for things that matter most to you and stay passionate. Find a mentor (or two) and allow them to give you uncensored advice. What (or who) you think you are supposed to be professionally or personally now is not necessarily the life you are destined for - trust the winding road. Be willing to walk through that door. In taking those risks when presented to us, we can experience the most amazing new chapters in our life and rewards beyond our imagining.

' Shaun Clasen, of Marion, is director of sales at the Cedar Rapids Marriott, board member of the non-profit Variety the Children's Charity and is the proud mom of 13-year-old Austin. Comments: shaunclasen@gmail.com