Finding Your Path: Wisdom from a Non-Linear Journey to Purpose

There's something magical about watching students' eyes light up when they meet someone who embodies the entrepreneurial spirit we discuss in class. This week, we hosted Valerie Merriweather, founder of Fitwell Solutions, who shared her remarkable journey with our Meredith College entrepreneur & innovation students.

“Underplan your time to leave buffer room for life.”

-Valerie Merriweather, founder of Fitwell Solutions

What struck me most about Valerie's story was its beautiful illustration of how life's apparent detours often become essential parts of our journey. As she shared her path to founding Fitwell Solutions, one thing became crystal clear: every experience, even those that seemed like diversions at the time, contributed valuable skills and insights to her ultimate mission.

"I never lose. I only win or I learn." Valerie shared this Nelson Mandela quote, which perfectly captures the growth mindset she advocates. It's about replacing self-limiting narratives with an empowering perspective: "If I don't know, I'll learn it." In today's rapidly changing business landscape, this adaptability isn't just helpful—it's essential.

One of the most practical pieces of wisdom Valerie shared was about building your support network. She emphasized the importance of having your "five" – a core group of supporters who truly understand and champion your mission. This resonated deeply with me, as I've seen how crucial it is to periodically evaluate whether your inner circle aligns with your goals and values.

She also introduced a brilliant framework for maintaining growth relationships:

1. Someone pouring into you (a mentor or guide)

2. An equal on a similar journey

3. Someone you're pouring into (a mentee)

This balanced approach ensures continuous learning while creating opportunities to give back.

Perhaps the most impactful insights came from Valerie's practical wisdom about daily success habits. Her advice to underplan your time – leaving buffer room for life's inevitable surprises – challenges our culture's obsession with over-scheduling. She reminded us that our first 12 hours are typically our most productive, encouraging intentional planning around our natural energy patterns.

But what truly set Valerie's message apart was her emphasis on finding your calling – that deeper purpose that goes beyond just work. Through her 8 dimensions of wellness framework, she's helping businesses create environments where people can thrive holistically, leading to better talent attraction and retention.

As I watched my students absorb these insights, I was reminded of why entrepreneurship education is so crucial. It's not just about building businesses; it's about building lives of purpose and impact. Valerie's journey exemplifies how our non-linear paths, when embraced with the right mindset, can lead us to exactly where we need to be.

For those interested in learning more about Valerie's work in corporate wellness and talent retention, visit www.fitwellsolutions.com. Her approach to holistic wellness in the workplace offers valuable insights for both established businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs.

Remember, as Valerie so powerfully demonstrated, your journey doesn't have to be linear to be purposeful. Every experience is preparing you for your ultimate mission – you just have to stay open to the lessons along the way.

What detours in your journey might be preparing you for your bigger purpose?