Lessons Learned (Part 6)
The first time I went to apply at a nutritional store I was dressed nicely when I went in for an application. When I went to return it, I was dressed for the gym to show that I was into working out and getting in shape. I would not advise this to anyone in today’s time. Always look presentable and polished. There wasn’t anything at this job that came easy for me. There was so much to learn about the herbs, vitamins, minerals, sports supplements and other products. The manager, who was also one of the owners, spent an entire week walking me around the store and going over each product. At first, I thought I could just remember what he said by him showing me the product and telling me about it. That did not work as I thought it would. I am definitely the type that needs to write it down and memorize it. I remember pulling out this thick book on all the products we sold and some we didn’t, and then going through it page by page about every supplement we sold. There was so much to learn, but day by day I learned something from the book, my boss and even the customers.
Some of the people who would come into our store had a real passion for certain supplements and would pass their knowledge onto me. I had many long conversations with customers who could spout off all the benefits to taking certain pills, powders, or drinks. A lot of what I learned I still remember to this day. In life everyone you meet can mentor you to some degree or another. I spent so much time learning how supplements improve the body. I also spent so much of my money trying out all these supplements. To say I was a human guinea pig is being nice. My body did change and change rapidly. When I went back to school after the summer, classmates were asking if I was on steroids. I would grin and say, “Not at all. I just finally learned how to change my body through proper diet, rest and exercise.” I’m not sure all of them believed me, but it was the truth. I still take supplements to this day, because I just don’t think I can get everything I need in my daily diet.
After being an employee for a while the owner decided to make me a manager, because he was opening another one in a city down the road. I took him up on his offer and found out what it was like to have to order product, hire employees and have the final conversation with upset customers. I know I didn’t do everything right at the job, but I did cut my teeth there in a lot of ways that made me better down the road. I’m grateful for that position and time in my life where I was challenged.
I also was lucky enough to meet the other owner who impacted my life spiritually, outside the business. You never would have known all the money he had by the truck he drove, the clothes he wore, and the way he made you feel important when he spoke with you. I was truly impressed by him and his humility. Another lesson learned.
Life Lessons:
Always look presentable and polished.
Write it down.
Everyone in life can be a mentor.
Always keep your humility.
Brad Rhame 