We were lucky to catch up with Xavier Thomas recently and have shared our conversation below.
Xavier, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
Being a big believer in the Lord himself that gave me faith and told me that I will win every battle, war, hardship that comes my way. No matter what it may be.
Summer 2023- I was laid off due to a contract between both companies. The owner warned me before hand & informed me I had 2 weeks to prepare.
When the time came for me to leave, I was heartbroken & started overthinking “how did I end up here?” I went through every emotion possible you could think of. Thinking this can not be happening . However, I had a 3 day rule in place I followed for years. I take those 3 days and let out everything that upset me. By day 4- I get back on my feet & be proactive regardless. Reread those sticky notes I’ve written down long ago & move forward.
After a month of working from 6am-9pm daily. I recovered, never missed a payment on all my bills, seek help by opening my mouth rather than keep it closed thinking I can do it all alone in this world.
The moment I saw this, I knew I could do anything. I became beyond strong than I imagined.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
My name is Xavier, but you can call me Zay or X-man. Born in Chicago,IL & I love traveling 5-7 times out the year. Camping, museums, art, roller skating with friends , boxing /kick boxing are my hobbies.
My love for the game of basketball is my biggest passion and still play today.
I try to be an introvert sometimes but others will say I’m highly extrovert.
Very easy going, silly & goofy, 90% of the time you’ll see me smiling. I give out hugs when we greet one another. Huge family man.
Currently- I work for Arvest bank at the home office. My goal is to become a commercial loan officer soon.
I’ve become a poetry author late 2019, writing 4 books of my own & 1 children’s book (total 5). All books are online (Walmart, Amazon, Barns&noble) My goal is 7 books. Once I’m done there , i will move to a new project.
Deep meanings:
It’s Just Us- Heal through love & promise to forgive. Love yours.
New ways of Learning- face, accept , & challenge “FEAR.” Anti-social is not the way.
Just Listen- Dear athlete, Keep your temple strong, but your mental stronger.
Just Hit Different- dedicate/ connect my soul to only one woman.
Just My Thoughts- my topics, my life, with Jesus Christ. Our bond & good faith will never change.
Book 6 & 7 will be 2024-2025
My family (cousins) have their ice cream business called MarShea’s Sweet Escape in Northwest Arkansas I help out time from time. Our goals are to retire early.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
-Wisdom from older people & listening to their stories -Networking or just talking to people became second nature
-Taking risk to gain experience
For the young generation: save 5-10% of your paycheck starting off. If you can do more, do more. Find your gift or purpose. expand your vocabulary, do not be afraid to ask for help, learn multiple skills. Just travel. you have to take risks on yourself.
Keep life simple & never stop learning.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
Always ! All may come so that I have the opportunity to learn about your world & who you are.
Im looking for folks who are willing to share their story as poets. Maybe do stand-up poetry, write a book together about a topic, podcast poet.
And it doesn’t have to just be books,
Contact Info:
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/~xavier-thomas~?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Other: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/just-listen-xavier-thomas/1139919827 Just Hit Different https://www.amazon.com/dp/1794873740/?coliid=I7EI42XWMO7H1&colid=39HNUTP6V9CFQ&psc=1&ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_lstpd_D6T9T4XMTDMRM84AWRKK&language=en_US It’s Just Us https://www.amazon.com/dp/1794777008/?coliid=I9ZWHMUNEHOGF&colid=39HNUTP6V9CFQ&psc=1&ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_lstpd_D6T9T4XMTDMRM84AWRKK&language=en_US
Image Credits
Darshuan Mcaway Kailynn Alas Anna
