Mr. Hazel

Tonight our young professionals group at work had the great pleasure of meeting one of Northern Virginia’s greatest proponents and developers, Mr. Til Hazel. I don’t think most people in the DC area know Mr. Hazel, let alone recognize how important his influence has been to what NOVA looks like today. This man was responsible for key legal and real estate developments that led to the creation of the Capital Beltway, George Mason University and Tysons Corner. We were so lucky to meet such an icon and hear his stories. He’s had me thinking all night about his accomplishments, and a few of the things he said have really got me thinking:

• Individuals are truly the movers and shakers. Committees and groups work to an extent, but it’s truly motivated individuals that make great changes. We should not be discouraged because we are only one person. We should be empowered because we are one capable person who can inspire great change.
• There are always politics….even if it’s not politicians creating the politics. There will always be challenges of status or beaurocracy or leadership that will delay and derail. Don’t give up. Some of the most important developments have been made because individuals didn’t give after for decades of discouragement.
• Criticism isn’t bad. Criticism is only bad if it’s a question of integrity.

This last point was one of the most powerful for me. I think so many young people (especially at work) are worried about always pleasing everyone and making sure that they are maintaining a positive impression for everyone. He’s made me realize that we can’t always please everyone, and we shouldn’t. You need to ruffle a few feathers to figure yourself out. It’s okay if people occasionally criticize you’re methods; you’re just finding what works best for you.

On another note, I’m so excited to be heading to Pittsburgh this weekend. DC has had me too stressed out for these past 2 weeks, so I’m so excited to get in my car, put on an audiobook and head west. I need some Burgh and M and family to remind me what’s important.

This crazy week just needs to end!!

To learning from legends,

Lia