It might take 2 tries, 3 tries, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10+ to figure it out. Maybe it’s taking that many breaks from school or making that many efforts at recovering from an addiction. Whatever it may be, it doesn’t matter so much about the amount of ‘attempts, pauses, breaks, or setbacks’ in comparison to the end goal. It matters more about the journey, the lessons along the way, and the growth gained. That’s what creates more meaning and purpose in life - not achievements.
Cole Szabo, Admissions and Outreach Specialist at Cumberland Heights adolescent program, ARCH Academy, spent many years in a continuous cycle of overdosing, treatment, relapsing, becoming homeless, repeat and repeat. Every time this cycle repeated itself Cole wanted better for himself but it wasn’t until the final time when he was willing to truly fight for the good of himself and his life instead of just achieving what sounded like the right thing to do. That simple shift broke the dark cycle that controlled Cole for years and allowed him to discover his calling that had been right under his nose all this time - substance abuse counseling. Now, Cole works as a licensed substance abuse counselor helping young people discover their meaning and approach life in a creative, non-conforming way, while also living a life that he, himself is truly proud to live.
In this episode of Success is Subjective, Cole joins Joanna to share his journey going from what seemed like a never ending cycle of overdosing and treatment centers, to finally hitting a wall and discovering his calling in life. There were many dark moments in his journey though, he is now able to fully LIVE a life exploring and enjoying with family, friends, and his dog. Listen in for Cole’s insight on the importance of focusing on the journey rather than the destination and see how that plays a role in his own inspiring and raw story.
What You Will Learn
Connect with Cole Szabo
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