A Growth Mindset: Learning from Experience

On Thursday, September 10, Wayne County CEO students had the opportunity to spend time with longtime Fairfield resident Sandra Stence, and Fairfield Public Library Assistant Director, who shared her personal experiences and some valuable lessons about the importance of continually improving ourselves.

Sandra spent more than 30 years working at CHAMP in Albion before being unexpectedly displaced last March when the company abruptly filed for bankruptcy and subsequently closed. Speaking from a place of personal experience, Sandra shared with students that one of the most important things she has relied on throughout the past year is maintaining a growth mindset, regardless of the circumstances we may face.

Sandra encouraged students to embrace challenges and recognize that temporary setbacks can provide valuable opportunities for personal growth, learning, and new experiences. She reminded students that we may not always be able to control what happens to us, but we can control how we respond and what we choose to learn from the experience.

These are lessons that extend far beyond the CEO program and into the workplace, relationships, and everyday life.

We are grateful to Sandra for openly sharing her story and her perspective with our students, and to the Fairfield Public Library for hosting us and providing a welcoming space for this meaningful conversation!