The Icebreaker that Made Me Rethink My Career

After three decades in the industry, a simple question stopped Lori in her tracks. Here's how self-reflection reignited her sense of purpose and empowered her to help others thrive.

A few years ago, I attended a conference session where everyone was asked to say a bit about themselves. This group of smart, successful people spoke eloquently about their experiences, goals, and intentions. Then it was my turn.

“My name is Lori Sanchez and I’ve been in the business for thirty years.”

And then I got stuck. What else was there? I fumbled for more, but found nothing. For the rest of that event, all I could think about was that introduction. Was that really all I had to say about myself? 

It occurred to me that I’d gotten caught up in life, in work, in the day-to-day tasks that occupied my time. In the process, I’d lost sight of my purpose. 

As I took the time to reflect on this, the pieces started falling into place. 

After 25 years at one company, I made the daunting leap to a new organization, facing unfamiliar systems, processes, and an entirely different company culture. Despite the challenges, I quickly adapted, and within six months, I transformed the company's performance, moving it from last to second in the region. This success came from empowering the team to take initiative and excel. It was then that I realized my true purpose wasn't in mastering logistics or processes—it was in helping others grow and develop into successful leaders.

Soon after, I was approached by another company expanding into a new state. I accepted their offer, only to find I had been chosen over a capable internal candidate. Guilt crept in. She deserved her chance to thrive. But before I could get too far into this rabbit hole, I landed on a different thought. 

“This is my purpose. Let me pull her up with me.”

I recognized aspects of myself in this young woman, and saw that, with my experience, I could be a stepping stone to her future and pay it forward. I was intent upon making sure she was never overlooked again.

So we worked together, focusing on communication and discussing the ins and outs of the industry. I knew how to get a facility up and running, and I encouraged her to let me take care of those logistics and do the groundwork. I would create a solid foundation so that when the time was right, she could just take it and run. When all was said and done, she’d be so good they could never doubt her again. 

Today, she’s thriving. She said to me recently. “When we first spoke, I was going to quit. I stayed because of you. This is what makes you a great leader. “

Now, when I’m asked to talk about myself, there’s so much to say. Yes, I’ve been in the business for over thirty years. But there’s more to me than that. I’m a great leader. Wherever I go, I can help others to realize their full potential and get out of their comfort zone. It’s always been about the people. Their success is my success.

“And when you get to where you’re going, turn around and help her too. For there was a time not long ago when she was you."

Hear more stories like this one when you join us for WCF 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina from November 10-12.