We Can Learn from this Teen - episode 176
This 15-year old was quick to say yes to being on the podcast. Again. Talking about the big pivot of heading into high school, Indya Hazlett had three important things to share: have a close friend to go through the experience with you, choose a mentor who has been there before, and pay attention to what you like to do.
You never know; you could turn that thing you’ve always liked to do into a profession. Indya plans to be a stylist after high school. She has known it for a long time. Her favorite thing is to get ready. That entails a bit of make-up, a flattering hairstyle, a killer outfit and a kickass attitude. And guess what? Indya has all of that in spades.
Indya’s previous episode with mom Kristi It Ended with Gray's Anatomy.
Funny. Caring. Bossy.
— Indya Hazlett
Who is Your Inspiration?
Thoughts on We Can Learn from this Teen
I was very moved when Indya shared that her brother is her inspiration. It’s not hard to see why. Ethan Hazlett just graduated from the San Diego Fire Rescue’s 97th Fire Academy. He earned high marks, spending 18 weeks of 12 hours days, learning the depths of fire science, and demonstrating all of the physical skills required to be a success. And in a field where success means staying alive, saving lives and structures, and being there for the lives of your crew. As Indya shared her brother is disciplined and pushes himself hard to meet his goals. All of the people graduating exemplify these same traits.
I was honored to be at the graduation ceremony along with close family and friends. Amongst the several speakers featured at the event, one man spoke about professionalism. I’m not sure we hear enough about this quality, or that we live what it means to the degree we could. As I listened to him speak I was reminded no matter what line of work we are in, or whether we work, being professional is rewarding in and of itself.
Three points about the demonstration of professionalism:
Exceeds expectations - people who are committed to exceeding expectations, who anticipate what is needed next, who look for ways to serve, who can meet expectations because they are qualified, they have no interest in just getting by or doing the bare minimum. This trait requires a commitment to being disciplined with the willingness, the fortitude, the ability and the desire to work hard. Ethan certainly demonstrated this and will continue to do so.
Representation - this is a point we need to emphasize. When Ethan goes out into the world of firefighting he is representing himself, his station and crew, the city he works for, firefighters at large, his family and friends. All this whether he is at work or not. That’s how it works. It is a huge responsibility. I think it’s another trait we need to bring back. I know I felt strongly about exemplifying this when I was a teacher, and when I worked in children’s theater. I made a point of going over this in fine detail with the teaching artists I hired. I hope it made an impression.
Humility - there is something very attractive about this trait. It’s looking for no credit yet when credit comes it is quick to deflect and share in the accolades naming it what it is, a team effort. The time to rest in the fulfillment is when leadership makes a point to tell you well done because it has been earned. I could see in Ethan’s eyes, and all of the other probationary firefighters, the look of humility.
Don’t get me wrong. This group was proud, proud of their accomplishment, proud of their future. Rightfully so. There is healthy pride and there is unhealthy pride. I think we all know that. It’s not hard to spot the difference. An arrogant individual does not typically choose a profession where he puts his life on the line, where he is at risk of jeopardizing the lives of his crew. There has to be trust that goes both ways. With the trust comes exceeding expectations, remembering who you represent, and serving humbly.
I like Indya saying she needs to live up to the character Ethan has shown. Sometimes living up to your older siblings accomplishments is daunting or unwanted but in Indya’s case, it’s inspirational and she is leaning into that. What a fine thing. To look up to someone, want to be like them in a way that will bring goodness and richer experiences to your own life. Then you get to be an inspiration to the next somebody that might be looking up to you. Indya, the little ones in your life are watching. I know you will continue the legacy.
You get to be an inspiration to somebody that might be looking up to you.
— RCN
Ethan’s graduation from the 97th fire rescue academy
