Toby Brooks – Savoring the Now: Mid-Career Pivots and the Human Experience

Emotional Balance Sheet with Paul Fenner

Have you ever thought about a mid-career pivot? Staring down the uncertainty of making a bold decision when a new opportunity arises?

Toby Brooks, a professor at Texas Tech University, has made his fair share of career pivots. With a background in athletic training, Toby and his wife crisscrossed the country trying to secure a position with a professional sports team.

A pivotal life transition came to Toby when he realized he was missing out on precious time with his family. Upon seeing his nine-month-old daughter walk for the first time after returning from a work trip, Toby shifted his focus and prioritized his role as a husband and father.

That transition led Toby to pursue a full-time position in academia, where he could still significantly impact students pursuing their dreams. Toby uses his personal experience to motivate and guide students, reminding them to find harmony between ambition and family.

A theme of our conversation that represents itself repeatedly, especially as parents, is to savor the moments. As our relationships evolve with our children, the importance of staying connected with their interests and savoring the precious "lasts" each year as they grow older are priceless.

Please enjoy my conversation with Toby Brooks.

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