for

10.22

by

pieces

created by reid wilson

10.22
Copyright 2012 by Reid Wilson
Illustrations copyright 2012 by Reid Wilson
All rights reserved. No portion of this book my be reproduced mechanically,
electronically, or by an other means without written permission of the publisher.
You have my permission :). -Reid

Design and Cover by Reid Wilson

meyouwe publishing company - under If I Knew Now.
i2know.org
Shared by Reid. Printed by you.

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Content Table

dream come true - beer me, im a cowboy

alone we survive together we thrive
stretch your world... evitcepsrep ru oy egnahc...
koi philosophy: pieces that build us
business news: risk is sexy, so is stanford

a bonus section: the creators crypt

10.22

For 22 year olds and everyone else Minding their way.

That should be all of us.

10.22
10.22: pieces for and by incredible you - a story sharing book written by people
around 22 for people around 22. Ten of the most interesting young people I have ever
met have graciously contributed a story and piece from their life to this book. They are
from all over. They have travelled. They are in graduate school. They work hard. They
are entrepreneurs. They have battled cancer. They laugh, play, and enjoy life. They are
wonderful people looking to serve and inspire.
Have a blast reading this book. Feel free to pass it on. Feel free to share.
As you read 10.22, there will be places for you to think and write your thoughts.
Look for the notebook sections. The writers have provided an engaging question for
you to answer. Use the Mlow arrows to take notes. Add your own Mlows. Doodle - there
are no rules. Make sure to reMlect, integrate, assimilate, and pass your thoughts. The
more we can share advice through story and experience, the better we can all be
prepared for this unpredictable, always, 22 year old world.
Thank you for taking a look at our book. You will likely be inspired by these fabulous
authors to create thoughts of your own. You are welcome to email your story,
experience, and advice to i2know.org. Our contact information is in the back. Enjoy
your active reading and we are excited to have you join us.

my notebook pg. u
get your thoughts down
use the flow arrows, like this
here is an idea
which leads to this idea
this idea is related to the above

- us

spread your ideas

so is this one
this idea too or two
here is a bit bigger idea

and here is another one

you try throughout this book

dream come true - beer me, im a cowboy

10.22

brew a new you

If you would have told me four years ago that one of my new favorite hobbies
would be brewing my own beer, I would have laughed. Though, I cannot laugh now
because I am now planning the recipe for my sixth batch and I am completely wrapped
up in the world of beer.
When I turned 21 years old, I was in the middle of my college years. My taste in
beer reMlected just about every other college students primary goal in purchases:
Cheap! I did not like the taste of beer at all. Probably a direct result of the cheap beer I
was purchasing. I was told by many that beer is like coffee, and you have to acquire a
taste for it. By the time I graduated, I had developed enough of a taste that I could enjoy
a light beer with some hot wings, but it still wasnt topping my list of refreshments. But
then, I moved to Portland, Oregon.
Portland is said to have one of the highest breweries per capita in the country. So if
you want to get to know beer, this is the place to do it. I decided when I moved out here
that I was going to expand myself as a person; dive into something where I lacked
knowledge, but had slight interest. With the vast beer knowledge and breweries at my
4

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disposal, I decided that I was going to be beer. The expansion started with simply trying
new beers. Then more new beers. I started to get the taste that people talk about, and
I began really enjoying beer. I started to get to know what types I liked and what Mlavors
stood out to me. Finally, with my biology background and having the scientiMic mind
that I do, I started to ask myself, How does the beer process work? The question led to
brewery tours followed by my own research of how to scale the big factory process
down to something I could do at home. The more research I did, the more I wanted to
know.
Now, I bottle my own beers in my little apartment and even have some hops
growing on the balcony! I enjoy the process of making the beer even more than I enjoy
drinking it. I Mind myself spending hours just looking up new styles to try or some weird
ingredient to use in my next batch. I recently made a pumpkin beer where I used over 4
pounds of actual baked pumpkin! Tweaking recipes and Miguring out what ingredients
lend different tastes, colors, and aromas makes me feel like a brewmaster at work. Its
like an ongoing science experiment where I am both the professor and the student.
This expansion process has even spilled over into other parts of my life. I have
traditionally been a very picky eater, but lately I have a motto that I will try everything
once and give it a fair shot before making my decision. I urge anyone out there to try a
similar course of action. Find something in which you have a little bit of interest, but
5

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that is completely outside of your box. Do some research, and expand your knowledge
on the subject. The next thing you know, you may Mind a new hobby that you thoroughly
enjoy and that you never saw yourself doing in the Mirst place.

-Curt, 25

my notebook pg. 13

- Curt

brew a new you

In what new interest will you engage yourself this

week? Which resources will you need to fully
immerse yourself?

10.22

wrangling life as a cowboy

As a kid I always dreamed of being a cowboy. I loved hearing stories about the
Wild West. The stories were always Milled with good guys, bad guys, action, robberies,
whimsy, and romance. It always seemed too good to be true. How could cowboys be
real? They got to save run-away trains, have duels, and they always got the girl. I
recently found out that cowboys are real. Then I became one. Now, I have not been
involved in any gun duels or captured any bad outlaws, but I do have a rope. You have
have to start somewhere, right?
I feel that many people have abandoned their childhood hopes and dreams. They
love the idea of becoming that dream, but few ever follow through with ever actually
making it happen. I hate that. I love to imagine a world full of people who actually
become what they wanted as a kid. We would have more cowboys and scientists, and
Batman wouldnt just be a movie watched on a big screen. It is hard to even think that
way because so many of us have lost our ability to imagine or dream. The fear of
disappointment is so overwhelming that many dont even dare to dream. Luckily, not
everyone has lost their imagination. The stories of whimsy and action are still alive
today. They may just not involve run-away stagecoaches.
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10.22
A friend recently made a comment that has stuck with me, and has made a huge
impact on my life. He said, In life, if you are not standing on the edge, you are just
taking up space. The reason it made such a difference in my life is that up to that point,
I was playing it safe. I am a cautious person, and living life on the so-called edge
scares me to death. After his comment, I looked over the edge, became terriMied of what
might happen if I jumped, and leaped off of that edge. My life hasnt been the same
since.
In the summer of 2010, I had that opportunity to jump off the edge. I got the
opportunity to come and work at a real live dude ranch called Lost Valley Ranch in
Sedaliam, Colorado. I applied to the ranch thinking it would be great to work on the
maintenance crew, having worked construction in high school, it just made sense. My
world got rocked when they let me know that I would be working as a wrangler that
summer. I had been on a horse twice in my life. Were these people crazy? I was the
furthest thing from a cowboy. Also, letting me take people riding on a creature of which
I was terriMied just seemed insane. Needless to say, I took my leap of faith. The Mirst
month was absolutely terrifying, but I have been working at Lost Valley for two years
now. Things are much better and I am thrilled to tell people on a daily basis that I love
my job. I would have never known I could experience such an adventure if I hadnt
decided to be daring enough to live a little on the wild side.
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We wake up every morning with an adventurous invitation. Many let the invitation
pass them by. We are invited to live a life that is not normal and mundane. We are
invited to a life that is full of imagination, dreaming, and action. An invitation that
pleads for you to not let your childhood dreams die. An invitation that demands you live
on the edge.
So the question at hand is: what are you going to do with the invitation you have
been given? Are you going to continue to settle with life just being normal? Nobody
turns down an invitation to go see the President, but I have seen plenty of people turn
down an invitation to fully live. Maybe its time to start letting those dreams that might
seem crazy resurface. So, get out your rope and guns. Anything that is full of whimsy
and action, and maybe a high-speed car chase is something worth pursuing to me.
-Schwab (Jake), 23

my notebook pg. 2

-Schwab (Jake)

wrangling life as cowboy

What are you choosing to do differently each day to

make your life more exciting and less mundane?

alone we survive together we thrive

>

cancer

10.22

winners embrace the word us

As I watched my mom pass away six years ago, I knew I would not be able to
continue living life as the steadfast, unwavering rock I had painted myself during the
year she had been sick. After she was diagnosed with lung cancer at the beginning of
my senior year, I put on my game face and continued living my high school life. But,
when she passed away just six days before I graduated and just three months before I
ventured to college, something inside me gave way. The slow process of learning what it
meant to accept the support of others began. While transitioning to a new chapter of
life away from home, away from comfort, I leaned on my then boyfriend, now husband.
I allowed Shane to comfort me through my grieving and dry the tears that expressed
what words could not.
Even though I allowed Shane to be a support during my grieving, if I had known at
age 18 what I know now, I would have opened up many more opportunities for growth.
If I had known then what I know now, I would have allowed more people to form the
network that they so badly wanted to create in order to surround me with love and
comfort. Five years after my mom passed I uncovered a truer, deeper understanding of
what it meant to allow the support of others in my life. At the age of 23 I was diagnosed
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with my own cancerHodgkins Lymphoma. Four-hundred Mifty miles from home, I
quickly realized that I would need to cherish any and all encouragement and love. In
poured the cards, owers, teddy bears, presents, and calls as physical signs of the
emotional partnership I had across the country.
A new honesty developed in relationships with family members and friends. I
quickly welcomed the strength and empathy people were offering. And even though I
felt as if I was Minally understanding how to accept the support of others, I discovered a
new, different, beautiful angle of support when I reMlected on the care from my oncology
nurses. Two weeks after I Minished my Minal session of chemotherapy, when I would
normally be returning for another round of drugs, I found myself missing them. I
missed the nourishment they were providing my soul. The smiles they brought each
time I walked through the door.
The nurses were more than physical care. They each administered a special soul
nurturing of which I am still realizing the depths today. They made me feel normal in
the midst of a very unusual bi-weekly routine of potent chemotherapy drugs. Their
positive attitudes and comforting words made me feel like cancer was simply a small
obstacle to surmount rather than a lifetime diagnosis. As I sorted through the
complicated emotions of missing my nurses, I realized they had been contributing not
only to my health, but also to my understanding of what it looks like to accept the
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strength of others in my life. Because of these very important ladies I grasp the
tremendous individual growth that can come from embedding oneself in a network of
support.
For me, that network certainly included family, but in the immediate, 450 miles
from home, my nurses helped me realize that accepting support does not mean you are
weak. Accepting support simply means you are smart enough to realize how much
stronger you will be with the support of others. Alone one individual can survive, but
with the support of others we thrive.
-Lori, 25

12

my notebook pg. 3

- Lori

winners embrace the word us

In what areas of your life can you welcome the support

of others so that you may thrive?

10.22

passion is not the pursuit, love is

As the hour-long bus ride slowly ticked by, I had a great deal of time to think. I was
growing increasingly discontented, and I became aware of guilt that I couldnt shake. If I
didnt spend 12-16 hours a day working, I felt guilty for short-changing my future
career. If I did spend 12-16 hours a day working, I felt guilty for not thoroughly
investing in my home life now. The constant tension wore on me daily.
Based on these working hours, you may assume that I used to be a lawyer or
doctor. Based on these working hours, you may assume I made well over $100,000 per
year and had decided to exchange my time and balance for money. I wasnt and I hadnt.
I was a classical musician pursuing my graduate degree at Indiana University. During
my undergraduate degree at Truman State University, I successfully paid my bills by
building my own private studio, I recorded with ensembles, performed at international
conventions, built a network of colleagues spanning the globe, and I managed to get
into one of the most sought after graduate programs for music in the country.
My career path was well-dened, and everything was going according to my plan.
There was one problem: this career path dened my existence. Wake up, ride the bus to
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campus, practice, sit through a lecture, practice, go to rehearsal, practice, move some
gear, practice, perform in a concert, move some more gear, ride the bus home (study
scores on the bus), practice at home, read textbooks, kiss my wife, go to sleep...repeat. I
had allowed my supremely passionate pursuit of my dream career become the entirety
of who I was.
Everyone tells you to nd your passion and chase it. Everyone tells you that when
you do this, everything else will fall into place. With the rst part, I agree; passion is
important. However, the idea that if you chase something with every Miber of your being,
then everything else will fall into place is nave. Always remember that more to life
exists than that thing called your passion. Whether that consists of your career, a sport,
an art form, or anything else, I guarantee that it does not amount to 100% of your life.
I made a change. I loved my life and my wife more than my career. I loved the time
we spent together, and I discovered balance. Working hard, Miring on all cylinders, and
pursuing something with everything you have can be fun and rewarding. A dangerous
line exists, however, when that pursuit, and solely that pursuit, denes you.
Webb Simpson provides a great example of someone who pursues his passion and
maintains balance. Most known for winning the 2012 U.S. Open, Simpson plays golf at
an incredible level. Needless to say, it takes dedication, hard work, and passion to get to
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this elite status. Despite this competitive Mield, Simpson is able to maintain balance. This
quote from Simpson sums it up nicely: You know, I tend to want to give it all I have
when I'm at the golf course, and then when I leave I don't want to think about golf at all.
And I just remind myself almost daily that golf's just my job, it's not who I am.
So would I take back ve years, thousands of dollars of debt, and a degree and a
quarter, all for a career Im no longer pursuing? Not in a million years. First of all, it was
an absolute blast. But mainly, what I was chasing would not have mattered. I needed
that time to learn an important lesson. Pursue your dreams, but dont let that pursuit
dene your existence.
-Shane, 24

15

my notebook pg. 4

- Shane

passion is not the pursuit, love is

Have you ever allowed your passion, or pursuit of a

goal, to force you out of balance? How can you realign
yourself and your goals to create better balance in
your life?

stretch your world...

evitcepsrep ru oy egnahc...

10.22

solo en sevilla
Travel alone. Very alone. Perhaps where you don't speak the language, or at least
not Mluently.
Have I done this? Yes. Was it a lifelong dream? No. Then why, why, why?
My junior year, I went to Spain to study abroad for Mive months. No, this was not
party abroad; it was study abroad. Like go to class with the Spanish students, work in
groups of only Spanish students (who speak faster than any New Yorker can attempt),
live with Spanish people, and hope the American friends you just met take a class with
you so youre not the only clueless one. So study I did, along with a few extracurriculars
that we can Mile under Life Experience.
Now, the beginning of this journey was a stunner forlets face itanyone who
has ever met me, as I traveled alone just to get to Spain. No one from my college was on
the trip and I wasnt even sure many other Americans would be attending the
university I had chosen. And if I found them, would I be able to force them to be my
friends? (Kidding! I promise I made friends!) So, all this from a girl who lives by her
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planner, writes in only one kind of pen, and adores color coordination, was quite
unexpected. And quite a test of courage.
One week near the end of my Mive months, I must have decided that my courage
needed a Minal exam to top off the semester, because I took a solo trip to Sevilla, Spain.
Wait, that super-Type-A girl is going on a trip by herself in a foreign country? Has
she lost her mind?!
As it turned out, no, I hadnt lost my mind. Well, small confession... I almost did
when I forgot to print my boarding passes the night before my Mlight. The print shop
down the street was still closed at the time I needed to leave (the relaxed Spanish
lifestyle strikes again!), so I had to wake up my Spanish roommate to use her printer.
Live and learn.
Anyway, traveling alone may have helped me Mind my mind, or at least some great
headspace. The room I had to think, to learn, and to overcome the little challenges of
those solo travel days was irreplaceable. I have not found an activity since that has
presented me with that same kind of space for both thinking and feeling.

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I was able to experience the top attractions on my list, lingering in my awe at la
Catedral de Santa Mara de la Sede and la Plaza de Espaa. I could weave my way
through the city, using my map and Fodors guidebook to maintain some sense of
direction (not my strong suit). Even when I did get a bit lost, the only person counting
on me was me, so I could take the scenic route and spend time in places my guidebook
didnt mention.
And if I was really lost, I had to be the one to ask a passerby where to go. Even after
nearly Mive months, my Spanish vocabulary could be quite elusive if I was even a tiny bit
nervous about speaking. But there was only me, so I had to be the one to speak. And
somehow, maybe because it was just me, I had all the conMidence in the world for those
two days.
At the end of one day I simply sat in Parque de Mara Luisa, soaking up my
surroundings watching Frisbee games, listening to a guitarist, writing some tidbits
about my adventure on the postcards I had selected with friends and family in mind.
Letting the Spanish language swirl around me made it easier to hear the English inside
me. I was lost in my freedom of feeling and thought while being found in the very same
place.

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Now Im thinking, when is my next solo trip? And when is yours? Clear that
schedule, book those tickets, map that route, and get ready for the alone time of your
life!
-Breanne, 22

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my notebook pg. 5

- Breanne

solo en sevilla

When are you going to set aside some time to travel

alone? Where will you go? What do you want to see
there? How will you clear some space to just be in your
own head?

10.22

happiness in haiti
Make helping people a signiMicant part of your life. Try to learn about the world
around you. Travel. Keep a positive attitude. These pieces of advice sound simple, but
we do not live in a simple world. Here is how I can share these pieces in my life.
I recently graduated from law school. Law school breeds competition. Students are
Miltered out during the Mirst year. Summer jobs are determined based on who is ranked
at the top of their class. Competition fuels ruthlessnessI have seen 1Ls (Mirst year
students) hide library books that their classmates need to complete assignments. Upon
graduation, only the best and the brightest obtain the highly sought-after, well-
compensated large law Mirm positions. For three years I was a part of this environment
where everyone was constantly Mighting to be the best. But, for what were they Mighting?
In my third year of law school, I joined the Human Rights Clinic. I had always been
interested in helping people. I deemed that this was the best way to learn about the law
and to Might for some of the most fundamental human needsthe right to life, health,
freedom from torture, and the right to human dignityrights that were violated by
deportations to Haiti.
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Our clinic and partner organizations were trying to stop deportations to Haiti due
to the ongoing conditions on the ground through litigation and advocacy. For our work,
we traveled to Haiti to interview people and document the state of the country. We
visited tent camps where we were told that there were babies having babiesyoung
girls were being raped. There was no security to protect them. We saw people on
deaths doorsteplying sick in tents without medical care or medicine. We talked to
deporteesindividuals who had lived with their families in the United States. After
being deported to Haiti, they were now living in tent camps or on the streets. We talked
to bureaucrats who discussed the situation academically and philosophically, but had
no solution to ameliorate the devastation and human suffering.
I realized that for what most people had been Mighting in law school and in life
money, the corner ofMice, an expensive carseemed silly after meeting people in Haiti.
Money and luxurious possessions are not bad; however, you should never settle for
meaningless satisfaction.
The people I met in Haiti had nothing, but were some of the kindest, happiest
people I have ever encountered. They were generous, despite the death, maltreatment,
and torture. They lived one day at a time, trying to help each other when they could and
enjoying the tiniest measure of happiness that came their way. We bought a child some
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fruit in the marketplace and he smiled like we had given him a million dollars. I
attempted to speak Creole to two Haitian women and they grinned and patiently spoke
with me. We took pictures of children in the tent camps and then showed them and
they shrieked in amazement. Even if we cannot stop all deportations to Haiti, we can
tell stories of the voiceless to campaign for immigration and human rights law reform.
So to sum up, here are some quick, memorable statements that have impact on me.
Make your life worth something. Take the opportunity to make society better. Use your
skills and education to help someoneas many someones as possible. Go somewhere
that you have never considered going. Talk to people therethey will always teach you
something invaluable. Life is not measured by possessions or titlesthe only thing that
will be remembered is how we spent our days and how we responded when life
brought hardship.
Then, open your mind to whats in front of you. Step out of your comfort zone.
Volunteer. Speak out for what you believe in. Dont be a cynictheyre a dime a dozen
and contribute little besides negative energy. Be an innovatornot only in inventing
new gadgets but also in improving failing systems and governments and Mighting for the
underdog. Dont be afraid to be controversialthe most controversial and detested
Migures in history are the ones that really broke down barriers and made societal
advancements. And, please, please dont hide law books. -Drew, 25
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my notebook pg. 6

- Drew

happiness in haiti

Where will you have the courage to be controversial?

What will you do to innovate and better the world
that immediately surrounds yourself and others?

10.22

speed play
Sweat bigger, not smaller. You will be surprised by what matters.
For many years of my life, I used to sweat the small stuff. Even things that were
silly, like what clothes to wear, or what party to get invited to, or the part in the school
play. Hey, I am a good Cinderella. These issues seemed largely important and signiMicant
at the time. I would get myself seriously worked up. Although my mom used to tell me
not to worry (and I even read those dont sweat the small stuff books), her words
never helped to ease the situation.
Over the years, Ive learned to become more patient, Mlexible, and conMident, while
gaining a greater understanding of myself and a stronger perspective of the world. At
some point, we can all relate with a small case of sweating the small stuff or StSS, as
serious medical folks know the illness.
I wish that I had known to ask myself the fundamental question, Will this matter
Mive years from now? This simple question is something small that helps me now, even
with situations at work and with friends, to regain perspective and conMidence. Ive
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10.22
heard that conMidence is the voice in your head that tells you that you belong.
Remember this as you explore new paths through your journey.
My StSS case began with a desire to Minish high school all too soon. At the age of 17,
I skipped my senior year of high school in order to begin college a full year ahead of
schedule. For some reason, I thought the answer to my problems would be to just keep
escaping situations in which I felt uncomfortable. To this day, I still believe that early
college was one of the best decisions of my life (there are also others that rank highly
on that list, such as study abroad!). But dont run, like I did, from anything. Meet
challenges head on, again asking yourself the fundamental question, Will this matter
Mive years from now? Heck, try Mive days from now or if you are bold, Mive minutes.
After I graduated from college, I was pushed by a desire for change, leading me to
pursue challenges that enhanced my journey toward becoming a well-rounded
individual. Through the Financial Leadership Development Program at Lockheed-
Martin, I capitalized on the opportunity to move once each year for the Mirst three years
following college, experiencing different job roles, meeting new people, and exploring
new places. I have been a Minancial analyst, a contracts administrator, and will soon
support corporate engineering and technology. I have already lived in New York,
Florida, and Washington D.C. I took this experience as a chance to explore the world at a
young age, and push myself to step out of my comfort zone by learning and growing in a
24

10.22
new environment each year. From these experiences, I learned a lot not only about
myself, but also about others. I learned to value those important in my life, and remain
Mlexible when times get tough. For me, it was time to take a leap of faith; I was no longer
in a hurry to grow up, and was Minally satisMied with where I was going.
I had done something that scared me. You should try some things that scare you
too. In keeping with my scare theme, I pushed myself to study abroad while in college (I
was only 19!), and thought that I knew a lot about the world. I knew nothing! Exploring
and touring many countries in Europe was an awesome and humbling experience. Not
only did I learn about many cultures and see many amazing sights, but I learned about
myself and developed a sense of independence I never thought possiblethe best way
to learn. So take risks and take advantage to do as much as you can! These experiences
combine to help form the person you become along the journey.
-Nicole, 23

25

my notebook pg. 7

- Nicole

speed play

Will this matter 5 years from now? Are you too

focused on getting there rather than enjoying your
moment?

koi philosophy: pieces that build us

?
=

10.22

g one

fishing

Aquariums are a common and intriguing restaurant Mixture. Im not exactly sure
what having a Mish as decoration communicates. Maybe its the mesmerizing way a Mish
swims, or that sense of peace that washes up with the bubbles that draws so many
restaurant owners to install one. Or perhaps its merely a sense that if this restaurant
can keep this Mish alive, then their food must not be all that bad.
A Thai restaurant I frequent features a large gray koi Mish. I used to tap the glass
and the Mish would follow my Minger (until the restaurant posted a sign asking people
not to do that). The koi would aggressively bite at me as if I was some form of food or
the key to his freedom from his aquatic cage. When I go to the restaurant, I like to
pretend that were old buddies, and that the koi is merely greeting me. I often wonder if
what people say about Mish is trueThat their memories are so poor that they dont
glimpse the tangible size of their holding cell. They only remember that small glimpse
of existence that tells them who they are and what theyre doing at that moment.
I am reminded of the many Mish throughout my childhood. I remember goldMish. I
remember Michael Jordan, my Siamese Fighting Fish that decided to commit seppuku
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by launching himself out of his bowl and into the nearby sink. Most of all, I remember
owning guppies that were given to us as a school project in fourth grade. For those
unfamiliar with guppies, theyre a very tiny Mish, no larger than a Mingernail. The male
Mish are often multicolored whereas the females are somewhat larger. (Fun fact:
Guppies also possess 23 chromosomes, the same as human beings.) The goal of the
project was essentially to keep your guppies alive for as long as you could. The project
was supposed to teach us a sense of responsibility for a living thing.
The Mirst few weeks with the Mish were magical. I remember my excitement at
taking my guppies home, crumpling up the orange and red Mish food bites in my Mingers
and watching my Mish attack me (not to mention their overpowering smell). After some
long-term care, the guppies died, and I quietly let the Minal generation fade into memory.
My lesson had been learnt.
When I was young, that lesson was one of responsibility and respect for life, but
now that lesson has expanded into a vision of time and the universe. It is a vision that
acknowledges the ways in which we view passing time. When I Mirst got my Mish, a day
seemed like an eternity watching them swim, but as generations passed and my
interest waned, time seemed to leap forward. This is often the case with what inspires
us. Those moments of inspiration are so vivid, whereas those moments of nothingness
seem like a void in memory.
27

10.22
When I am an old man, I wont remember the guppies or some of the moments
that built me. I wont remember the generations that have grown up after me. Itll just
be those crumbles. Those bits and pieces of life that stuck out the most. Its those bits,
those small glimpses, that seem to stick and deMine our existence. The glimpses that
inform us of who we are and about who we really care about. And though our vision
may seem so much broader, perhaps we are not all that different from the koi.
-Elliot, 26

28

my notebook pg. 8

gone fishing

- Elliot

If you could tell someone today how much they mean

to you, who would you tell? Do it.

business news: risk is sexy, so is stanford

Stanford Profe
s sor 2030

Po ol Temp: 3 7

o
g o f r it !

10.22

jump in the water often

I froze. Staring blankly at my computer screen, I tried to take a deep breath and
scrolled again to the top of the e-mail I had just opened. Had I read that right? I clasped
my shaking hands in my lap, closed my eyes, and began reading again. We have
enjoyed working with you, the e-mail read, but we regret to inform you that your
choice to pursue entrepreneurial ventures in the online afMiliate realm unfortunately
will end our contract. Plans to open a business of your own regrettably run contrary to
our interests regarding working with a private contractor. We wish you all the best with
your endeavors.
A tear involuntarily streaked down my face. Frustrated, I slammed my computer
shut and stomped outside.
I ran into my mom on my way out the door. Honey,she stopped a few steps in
front of me, studying my face, Whats wrong?
I glared at the ground, steadying myself for the blow that sharing my recently
received news would undoubtedly deliver to my pride. I looked at my mother. Well,
29

10.22
Mom I paused. I just got Mired. I winced. Saying it out loud hurt.
For the past few months, I had been working for a company doing some marketing
and online editing work for their website. I had landed the gig at the beginning of the
summer, and had learned a ton about online businesses during my time with them. I
had learned so much, in fact, that I had been toying around with opening a business of
my own. At the time, however, pursuing my own business venture was just an ideaa
small wisp of a daydream that lingered in the gray area between my subconscious and
my constant train of thoughts. It would only really show itself every once in a while, and
even then it would only stay for a few minutes at the most, always pushed back into my
mental Miling cabinet labeled Things I Would Really Like To Do That Will Probably
Remain Undone.
I kicked a pebble and watched it skip down my driveway. Kelly, I scolded myself.
What were you thinking?! What had prompted me to excitedly share my strand of a
vision with my boss the week before? I searched my brain for an answer. All I could Mind
was the resounding feeling that I had done something stupid. Now, I was without a job
and what did I have to show for it? A tuft of an unrealistic dream? I was 18 years old
and about to go to college. I couldnt start my own businessCould I?

30

10.22

Three months later, I sighed as I closed a book geared toward budding

entrepreneurs. Stupid idea, I muttered to myself. Had I known what trying to open a
business entailed, I certainly wouldnt have shared my silly aspirations with my boss a
few months earlier. I would probably still have a part-time, steady job. And I deMinitely
wouldnt have spent seemingly every single hour of free time that I had between
college classes, studying, working my on-campus job, and all of my extracurriculars
pouring through page after page of books on programming, online marketing, and
business legal jargon. What was I thinking?
After I splashed my face with cold water later that night before bed, I stared at my
tired expression in the mirror. Alright, come on Kelly. I took what was probably my
millionth deep breath since I had Mirst had the ambition to start a business of my own.
You can do this. I know you can.
It was going to be a lot of work, but I knew that I wasnt completely crazy for
wanting to start a business while I was in college. I had never been one to give up on
something that I had set my mind on doing, and I didnt see any reason why I should
start giving up now.

31

10.22
I decided to start by making a list of small goals that I knew I could accomplish-
each within perhaps a few days. Find an available domain name. Check. Solidify basic
website design. Check. Find afMiliate network to join. Check.
A few months later, I felt like I was actually going somewhere. Instead of focusing
on my big end goal, I turned my attention to completing smaller tasks that built on each
other. Just like any big goal (graduating with honors from college, for example) can at
Mirst seem overwhelming, Ive learned it never seems as bad if you take everything one
step at a time.
Slowly, I began making progress on my list. I had absolutely no programming
background, so I bought a book on basic HTML and CSS. Before long, I was deciphering
source codes on every website I visited. My research informed me that I would need to
hire a programmer to design the extensive database that my idea would need. I dove
into the project and made the decision to invest the money I had received for my high
school graduation into my business plan.
By the fall of my sophomore year of college, I had a legitimate business up and
running. I will never forget the feeling of logging into my bank account and seeing the
Mirst payment from a sale that had been deposited into my account. Of course, monetary
rewards were only half of it. More important to me was realizing that I could, and did,
32

10.22
accomplish something that seemed virtually undoable a year before.
It has been three years since I Mirst voiced my aspiration to start a business of my
own. Between then and now, Ive graduated from college, started another business, won
entrepreneurial scholarships and awards, received a call from the producers of Shark
Tank, and have spoken at business conferences.
Losing my Mirst solid part time job as a result of my entrepreneurial goals at the
time seemed like the end of the world. Looking back, however, I know that it was that
Mirst failure that ultimately served as the foundation for my subsequent
entrepreneurial successes.
Had I known that I would eventually accomplish what had started in my head as a
far-fetched ambition, I might have actually smiled when the company let me go. What at
Mirst seemed like a curse turned out to truly be a blessingI was thrown, or maybe I
threw myselfbut in any case, I was suddenly gasping for air that I didnt know how to
make show up. Ive screwed up a lot. I spent three months developing something that I
later trashed. I made a stupid investment that ended up costing me $1,600. Mistake
after mistake, Ive Mloundered around in deep water without a life jacket more times
than I can count.

33

10.22
But Ive learned that hard work always pays off, even if it takes a little sorting
through the marbles to realize it. If I could talk to my eighteen year old self, sitting
overwhelmed with my head in my hands in the library, I would shake my shoulders and
tell myself that its often the times when everything seems the hardest that youll reap
the most out of in the long run. I would tell myself to take even more chances, and to
dream up more seemingly foolish ambitions. Every success story once started as a silly
dream.
At an entrepreneurial conference I spoke at during my junior year of undergrad, I
shared what I had, so far, found to be one of the most applicable quotes to lifein the
wise words of Dale Carnegie, discouragement and failure are two of the surest
stepping stones to success.
Success, however you deMine it, is only something good because you can contrast
it with the times when you think the world is caving in. It never isremember the
shadows are only there because behind the clouds shines the sun.
-Kelly, 22

34

my notebook pg. 9

jump in the water... often

- Kelly

Everything you do in life-including helping and taking

care of others-will mean a whole lot more if you
also take care of yourself. What are you planning on
doing today to take care of you?

10.22

definitely someday stanford

In my opinion, the best thing about being human is our ability to time travel. For
instance, think about tomorrow morning. You can place yourself there, hitting your
alarm and getting out of bed. You might not know exactly how you'll get there, but, with
fairly high certainty, you will. And if you wanted to get up at a different time or on the
other side of the bed, you can. That is, you can see into the likely future and alter it. Now
think about yourself next week or next yearnext decade, even. How far, and with
what certainty, can we do this? What side of the bed will you choose when youre
thirty?
I started thinking about this my junior year of undergrad when I Mirst took
econometrics (a wildly difMicult class for me). Late one night, I was staring at a page of
foreign Greek symbols and thought, if I was able to travel back to sixth grade, it would
be easy. Those classes were easy. But I guess easy is just a mindset something that
happens in hindsight. Im sure I thought my U.S. Government and integrated math
classes were difMicult back in the sixth grade. So, maybe next year Id think this
econometrics stuff was easy as I moved into more advanced classes? Then I realized
that theres nothing holding me back from that future hindsight. Were humans. We can
35

10.22
time travel. If itll be easy next year, it can be easy now. Ill essentially be the same
person then as I am now, just with a different perspective. I could make hindsight into
foresight by simply changing the way I think about it. I got an A in econometrics. It
was about senior year when the next, and probably most important, epitome changed
my outlook. I traveled through time to try to envision an end goal that felt happy.
A professor at Stanford University, respected, and looked up to. My ofPice hours
have lines of students waiting in the hall. They come to talk about the content of
my class, but stay to understand how the content and my inPluence can impact
them. I am the kind of professor who evokes goose bumps in lecture and
inPluences underclassmen to change their majors and focus.
The story is just a fairy tale I made up at age 20. But now that I know this (made
up) future, I can play a little scenario in my brain that guides real world decisions every
day: When Im sitting across a desk from a future Stanford student who asks Professor
Skievaski, how did you get to where you are? How will I respond? Could I say, When I
was 25, I started my own consulting company? Or maybe, When I was 25, I went back
to graduate school for an MBA? Which scenario would my future self most likely tell
the student? Which scenario would put me in that seat across that desk? Both are Mine,
but I have to choose the one today that I think will put me there in 30 years.

36

10.22
Now I know the future. I travel there every day when I choose how to live and
which direction to move. And if this future doesnt happen, its simply because I
consciously made the choice for something elsesomething better. The fairy tale
becomes the fall back plan because diverting from the path means and requires
something better to come. If you have questions, you can email me at
nskievaski@stanford.edu in about 30 years.
-Niko, 25

37

my notebook pg. 10

- Niko

definitely someday stanford

What makes you special, indispensable, and separate

you from everyone, including the old you? How will
this affect your next big transition?

a bonus section: the creators crypt

10.22

a story with a twisted (tie) heart

I recently discovered something obvious that I should have always known. Life is
about stories. Just look around; stories Mlood our TVs, radios, and phones in the forms of
movies, songs, and social media. They entertain our minds with books, magazines, and
lectures. Stories bond families and friends around campMires, over coffee, and at holiday
dinners; both in their creation as well as their recollection. Life is a story, and our
ability to share and listen to stories is directly correlated to the depth that we are able
to appreciate, make meaning from, and change our lives. So heres a story from me to
you, thats about both me and you, and what we are doing here.
During the Spring Break of my sophomore year in college, I was part of a mission
trip to Mexico where student volunteers helped build a church and facilitate a day camp
for children. The Mirst morning in Mexico, I was at the breakfast table and reached for a
piece of bread. I happened to have the twist-tie from the top of the bag in my hand. I
twisted it around, shaped it, and made it into a little heart on one end. For some reason
unknown to myself, I didnt throw it away, but put it in my pocket.

38

10.22
The week went quickly and the last day in Mexico arrived. That morning, I put on
the pair of jeans that happened to have the twist-tie in the pocket. I was surprised
something so small had survived the manual labor of the week without getting lost. I
twisted it around, shaped it, and made it into a little heart on one end. I thought,
Mandy, why did you keep this? You should throw it away, you dont need it. And I
almost did, but then for some reason unknown to me, I put it back in my pocket.
We went to the Minal Miesta of our Mexico experience, and there was this little girl at
the Miesta I knew. She carried a small purse and wanted to show me something inside,
When she tried to open it, there was no zipper pull and she couldnt get it open. All of a
sudden, I realized why I kept that twist-tie. I reached into my pocket, pulled it out, and
twisted it around the zipper, shaped it, and made it into a little heart on one end. My
little friend looked up at me with a smile that bridged any language barriers, and said,
Gracias!.

The twist-ties that you have in your pockets are your stories, advice, and wisdom.
Sure, they may be small and seemingly insigniMicant, but they are incredibly versatile
little tools hidden in your pockets that you can share to help shape another persons
experience. Dont throw them away or keep them hidden. Share these stories with
39

10.22
anyone that will listen; and in doing so, you may not only transform them, but also
yourself. This book is a collection of many twist-tie gifts being given to you. Im
honored to have a part in it, but you, too, have incredible wisdom to share.

So, tell me, what do you have in your pockets?

-Mandy, 26

40

- Mandy

a story with a twisted (tie) heart

my notebook pg. 11
How have stories shaped or influenced your life and
relationships? In what ways might you start to think
about, listen, collect, and tell stories to assist you in
achieving your goals? What story is your life
currently telling? What kind of story do you want
your life to tell? How can stories help make the
answers to the last two questions identical?

10.22

notebook nightmare

Rolling over with a start two nights ago, I awoke. I had an idea, a good idea. I
should write the idea down, but where was my notebook? I need to wear my notebook.
Off went the covers and my feet scampered down the stairs. Luckily, the thought did not
escape me. I captured the idea with my pen and notebook. Close miss there, I thought, I
almost missed the chance to share my idea. Shame on me.
Fortunately, I am now able to share my idea with you. The idea is: always, always
carry pen and paper. You will get your ideas at the oddest times. In the shower, at
practice, in a meeting, or right before bed are breeding grounds for thought. So, Mind
yourself a notebook, an index card, or scrap paper. Then, destroy the medium. Scribble
on it, convey your ideas on it, draw yourself pictures, and write notes to yourself
(people think, Reid is nuts, when he does this). Example: Dear Reid, Pick up pizza. From,
Hungry Reid.
Why now? you ask, Why do I need a notebook? Answer now you get. If I Knew
Now needs your ideas on paper. We need you to share your ideas with us. Who is us?
We, the readers of your wisdom. Your neighbors and friends are part of us. Get going
41

10.22
and pass your ideas.
The best part about carrying a notebook at all times is that you can write down so
many ideas for later. You can write down ideas for later in the day, later in the week,
later in the month, later in the year, and way later in life. You never know when you may
need a random idea to start a project or an assignment, a business, or a book.
It is so hard to just sit around and conjure up ideas. Ask artists or writers what
their processes are for creating art. They will probably answer, First I get inspired,
then I go create. The process does not happen the other way around. You do not just
create then get inspired. You have to Mind something that moves you.
The funny things about the somethings that move you is that you cannot plan for
them. They just pop out at you like a Jack-in-the-box, with an incredibly mean Jack.
Unexpected, and sometimes frightening, ideas will thump you on the head. Ouch, you
say? You can win this battle. The best way to Might the somethings is to have your pen
and paper ready to write them down. This is the only method to capture them and
defeat them. Otherwise, ideas are quick little buggers. They sneak away into the depths
of your memory, never to be seen again. And then, you are that gomer who is looking
sideways saying, Now what was the great idea I had Mive years ago? or Now what was
the great idea I had Mive minutes ago? Embarrassing

42

10.22
This whole book, 10.22, started in a notebook. The Mlow arrows started in a
notebook. The great writer list started in a notebook. The art started in a notebook.
Here are the times that these ideas were recorded. In logical order, of course, and at
logical times, like I have described above, the notebook was scribbled and scratched.
June 7, Chicago rest stop 5:30pm: a book where 22 yr olds (approximately) write to other
22 yr olds would fun. Of course other people can read it too. Call Curt with hands free call
during rest of drivesafe.
June 14, backyard mowing, 11:30am: I should call Kelly. She would have a great idea
about how to do this, and she should write. Oh, other writers. Shane, Breanne, already
called Curt.
July 28, apartment staring at sunset, 8:30pm: called shane, Lori is writing too. Nicole,
Drew, Schwab, Niko. All would be great. Invite them now.
October 10, running, 7:00am: a creators bonus section. Elliot, Mandy, me (unfortunately)
October 31, sleeping 12:00am: midnight on Halloween, this could be scary. But, I need to
draw the cowboy comic.
So, there is a little chunk of my notebook. You can see that the times are all over,
the activities I am doing have no pattern, and I just scribble words down on paper. You
should feel fortunate I typed my notebook. The original version is basically unreadable
43

10.22
except to me. Of course, I can read hieroglyphics; so deciphering the symbols of my
notebook
Egyptian Pie baby.
Did you reach for a notebook yet? Have you been taking notes in your 10.22
notebook? At least, though dangerous, mental notes? I hope so. We need you to
remember the next great business, project, music, or art idea that pops in your head.
Get that down on paper now and in the future. You wont regret a little scribble that can
pay dividends in the future.

-Reid, 24

44

my notebook pg. 12

- Reid

notebook nightmare

What are three ideas you have had that you think
you can execute this year? Which random moments
conjure up your greatest thoughts? Exercise, staring
at the sun, drinking beer?

my notebook pg. 13

- Curt

brew a new you

Find something in which you can fully engage your

mind in the learning process. Find something that
could be just a hobby. Learn everything about that
hobby. Thus,turning it in to one more skill you have and an
area of expertise you can share.

In what new interest will you engage yourself this

week? Which resources will you need to fully
immerse yourself?

my notebook pg. 14

-Schwab (Jake)

wrangling life as cowboy

A few years ago I became quite convicted as to how

I was choosing to live this short life I had been given.
I didnt have a near death experience; I just decided
to make life more interesting. Life is short.

What are you choosing to do differently each day to

make your life more exciting and less mundane?

my notebook pg. 15

- Lori

winners embrace the word us

Accepting support does not mean you are weak. It

simply means you are smart enough to realize how
much stronger you will be with the support of
others. Alone one individual can survive, but with
the support of others we thrive.

In what areas of your life can you welcome the

support of others so that you may thrive?

my notebook pg. 16

- Shane

passion is not the pursuit, love is

Our society talks a great deal about passion, and

passion is a critical element in discovering who you are
and what you should pursue in life. Often, we overlook
balance, allow that passion to own us, and end up out of
balance.

Have you ever allowed your passion, or pursuit of a

goal, to force you out of balance? How can you
realign yourself and your goals to create better
balance in your life?

my notebook pg. 17

- Breanne

solo en sevilla

Your legacy will not be a full bank account, stock

options and life insurance. Hopefully, it is tales some
might call tall, photos for the grandkids to stare at
in disbelief and a smattering of foreign currency left
in a bedside drawer. Everyday, Im trying to decide.
Have you decided?

What is the photo you want to share in the future?

my notebook pg. 18

- Drew

happiness in haiti

Open your mind to whats in front of you. Step out of

your comfort zone. Volunteer. Speak out for what you
believe. Dont be a cynictheyre a dime a dozen and
contribute little besides negative energy. Be an
innovatornot only in inventing new gadgets, but also in
improving failing systems and governments and fighting
for the underdog. Dont be afraid to be controversial
the most controversial and detested figures in history
are the ones that reallybroke down barriers and made
societal advancements.

Where will you have the courage to be controversial?

What will you do to innovate and better the world
that immediately surrounds yourself and others?
Do you have the guts?

my notebook pg. 19

- Nicole

speed play

When I was young, I thought I knew everything,

and I thought I wanted to grow up. But, in doing
this, youll miss out on enjoying exactly where you
are. Dont be in hurry to get where youre going;
just enjoy the ride right here and now. Dont settle,
but dont be too restless, and keep enough time and
patience to enjoy the world around you and those
close to you. Finally, pursue challenges, and seek to
learn something new every day.

Will this matter 5 years from now? Are you too

focused on getting there rather than enjoying
your moment?

my notebook pg. 20

gone fishing

- Elliot

The hardest part of success is failure. Failure hurts. It

leaves you writhing in purposeless, wondering how to
accomplish your dreams. No one succeeded before they
failed. Every failure is a preparation for success. The
real challenge is having the gall to fail again.

If you could tell someone today how much they mean

to you, who would you tell? Do it.

my notebook pg. 21

jump in the water... often

- Kelly

Respect, always try to understand, and help others

whenever you can. Never underestimate the reciprocal
power of kindness. In the wise words of Ralph Waldo
Emerson, It is one of the most beautiful compensations
of this life that no man can sincerely try to help
another without helping himself. Serve and thou shall
be served.

Everything you do in life-including helping and taking

care of others-will mean a whole lot more if you
also take care of yourself. What are you planning on
doing today to take care of you?

my notebook pg. 22

- Niko

definitely someday stanford

Your story is what you have uniquely done. Create a

resume that tells your story. Paint a picture with
strokes no one else has. Make it sans-tasks. Create
future resumes that highlight goals and success.
Make room because you cannot attach to past
accomplishments. Instead, you must prepare for
future achievement.

What makes you special, indispensable, and separate

you from everyone, including the old you? How will
this affect your next big transition?

my notebook pg. 23

- Mandy

a story with a twisted (tie) heart

I can hardly believe I did not realize this sooner. Life is

many a thing, but at its heart, life is about stories. Our
ability to share and listen to stories is directly
correlated to the depth that we are able to appreciate,
make meaning, and change our lives.

How have stories shaped or influenced your life and

relationships? In what ways might you start to think
about, listen, collect, and tell stories to assist you in
achieving your goals? What story is your life
currently telling? What kind of story do you want
your life to tell? How can stories help make the
answers to the last two questions identical?

my notebook pg. 24

- Reid

notebook nightmare

Humans generate thousands of thoughts a day. Good

job to you. But, humans lose thousands of thoughts a
day. Be a contributor to your world by writing down
thoughts that have substance, are engaging, and that
you can act upon now or in the future.

What are three ideas you have had that you think
you can execute this year? Which random moments
conjure up your greatest thoughts? Exercise, staring
at the sun, drinking beer?

10.22

An After Word of Gratitude

The occurrence that 11 amazing people will write for you seems rare. Thank you
very much to my friends, colleagues, and peers who wrote for 10.22.
Curt - You have been a friend since pre school, the Mirst friend I can remember.
Thanks for always being there for the past 21 yrs, being exceptional at each thing you
do, and being tall.
Schwab (Jake) - You are a cowboy man! You make us all want to shred cheddar and
spice up our lives. Thanks for coming out of the wild west for a moment to drop some
playful knowledge on us.
Lori - You are so strong - emotional, spiritual, physical, mental - you are all there.
Especially, physical as you sat on cancer (twice)! Thanks for being a ball of fun at all
times and for squatting 300lbs. That is the size of a buffalo or something.
Shane - Since we were smackin singles in the 6tu grade majors, you have been a
dominant thinking forces. Thanks for teaching me to drive a manual, teaching me how
to think, and how to pull sh*tties in the snow.

Breanne - You smarty pants sister you. You bring down the house with your
creativity, willingness to grow, and your attention to detail. Thanks for putting up with
me as your brother. That qualiMies you to be angelic somedaybut only someday.
45

10.22
Drew - Your passion walks ten feet in front of you. I am thankful to have met you
when I moved to Michigan six years ago. I am thankful that I could call you up and you
were down to write. Thanks for pursuing such a deep meaning in life and calling on the
rest of us to join you.
Nicole - Water skiing doubles, triples, and quadruples around the lake at night
cemented a lifelong friendship. Your desire to achieve your goals inspires me to keep
my goals in front of me and attack them with Mire. Thanks for being smart.
Elliot - You have supported If I Knew Now from the beginning. Thanks for
sponsoring the website and getting me started on an entrepreneurial path. Your
dedication to your craft is evident and persuades me to show up to my path everyday.
You are an incredibly deep writer and thinker. I look forward to life as friends.
Kelly - Are you human? A couple start up businesses, the willingness to push
through failure, and a top student all at once. You push me to maximize my day. Thanks
for becoming my friend, believing in my work, and believing in yourself each and every
day.
Niko - You kick my ass. I could stop there. But, I wont. We met on the Mirst day of real
job life. I am so thankful to have met an incredible man, friend, and innovator. Thanks
for adopting me as an ofMice mate, encouraging me to pursue skill, vision, and dreams,
and always willing to grab some coffee. You are kick-ass.

46

10.22
Mandy - You will say, Stop-it! (with a hand Mlick) when I say this - you helped kick
off this idea as you helped me formulate thoughts. You inspired me to try graphic
design. Thanks for designing the If I Knew Now signature logo. Also, how are you so
freakin fun? Thanks for always being willing to laugh and party rock.
To All of You - The words for each of you could be traded in and out. Thank you for
being willing to listen to my ideas, support my ideas, and create my ideas. So often ideas
are said, but there is no action, no build. You all are creators and builders. I am so
thankful to have crossed paths with each of you. I am glad we could all come together to
create this book together. I look forward to seeing where we go together.
To Our Readers - You picked up this book. Thank you. Now share with a friend, a
family member, or colleague. What story and advice will you share? Grab your
notebook and get to scribbling. Your ideas are important. Save them, develop them,
share them. We are happy to share our content with you. Enjoy more everyday at the If I
Knew Now website - i2know.org.
-Reid

47

10.22

Writing Roster
Name: Curt Greeley
School: Minnesota State University Mankato, Pacific University College of
Optometry
Current Job: Student
Your age: 25
Hometown: Newton, IA
Current location: Hillsboro, OR
Email: gree5870@pacificu.edu
Name: Schwab, Jake
School: Anderson University
Current Job: Cowboy
Your age: 23
Hometown: Baroda, MI
Current location: Sedaliam, CO
Email: jeschwab@anderson.edu

48

10.22
Name: Lori Griffin
School: Truman State University
Current Job: Personal Trainer
Your age: 25
Hometown: Newton, IA
Current location: West Des Moines, IA
Email: peterslori@gmail.com
Name: Shane Griffin
School: Truman State University
Current Job: Performance Consultant, Dale Carnegie Training
Your age: 24
Hometown: Newton, IA
Current location: West Des Moines, IA
Email: shane.griffin@dalecarnegie.com
Name: Breanne Wilson
School: Butler University, Universidad de Murcia
Current Job: Job Searcher, Marketing Intern
Your age: 22
Hometown: Newton, IA / Stevensville, MI
Current location: Stevensville, MI
Email: breannewilson248@gmail.com
49

10.22
Name: Drew Aiken
School: Michigan State University, University of Miami School of Law
Current Job: Legal Fellow at The Center for Reproductive Rights
Your age: 25
Hometown: Stevensville, MI
Current location: Washington D.C.
Email: drewlaurenaiken@gmail.com
Name: Nicole Wilder
School: Clarkson University, Syracuse University
Current Job: Financial Leadership Development, Lockheed Martin
Your age: 23
Hometown: Huntington, NY
Current location: North Bethesda, MD
Email: nicole.e.wilder@lmco.com
Name: Elliot Trotter
School: University of Puget Sound
Current Job: Editor-in-Chief Skyd Magazine, Business/Marketing Director of
RISE UP Ultimate, President/Founder of Moon Rock Creative
Your age: 26
Hometown: Highland Park, IL
Current location: Seattle, WA
Email: elliot@skydmagazine.com
50

10.22
Name: Kelly Dotseth
School: Luther College, University of Cologne
Current Job: German Congress Scholarship Fellow, Studying Law
Your age: 22
Hometown: Colorado Springs, CO
Current location: Cologne, Germany
Email: dotske02@luther.edu
Name: Nikolai Skievaski
School: Arizona State, Boston University
Current Job: Principal - Words, Numbers, Images LLC
Your age: 25
Hometown: Phoenix, AZ
Current location: Madison, WI
Email: nikolaiskievaski@gmail.com
Name: Mandy Wubben
School: Luther College, Minnesota State - Mankato
Current Job: Residence Life - Hall Director
Your age: 26
Hometown: Buffalo Center, IA
Current location: Mankato, MN
Email: wubbam@luther.edu
51

10.22
Name: Reid Wilson
School: Luther College
Current Job: Residence Life - Hall Director, Coach, Creator - If I Knew Now
Your age: 24
Hometown: Newton, IA / Stevensville, MI
Current location: Decorah, IA
Email: ifiknewnow@gmail.com

52

my notebook pg. 25

What should I do now?

keep writing your thoughts

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- Us

do something great.

write your own If I Knew Now piece

easy, just answer what would you say to
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for
and

if i knew now

10.22
pieces

now by u 2

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by

created by reid wilson