Maybe you remember me as an athlete, maybe not. I was an exceptional youth athlete, but lost my aggression after I punched my friend (in the arm) because he made fun of me—my name in particular. I thought he overreacted, but now I understand the betrayal stung more than the blow. Sometimes I wonder what it would be today if I responded differently.

Into high school, I kept my harsher emotions in check because I knew the potential damage of losing my cool. The result was being perceived as soft. I never minded, because I always knew how tough and competitive I was.

In the end, I quit trying to be a pro because I knew I was LEAGUES smarter than I was athletic. Also, I felt responsibility to build a better world. I was plagued by the decision, which sent me into depression… and since then I’ve been building myself back with the help of friends, family, and strangers.

I’m turning being a dreamer into being a visionary.

Make no mistake—I’m still competitive, just way better at collaborating while understanding the power of a single vision.