Skydeck On the Road Less Traveled
May 25, 2021
Ed Hajim, a former finance executive with a remarkable journey from an orphanage to the boardroom, shares his inspiring life story. He reveals the shocking experiences of childhood separation and his struggles in foster care. Ed describes how focusing on academics and athletics became his escape, paving the way to prestigious education and a successful career. A poignant moment comes when he discusses discovering letters that led to a bittersweet reunion with his mother at the age of 60, offering deep reflections on family and legacy.
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Early Orphanage Trauma Built Resilience
- At five, Ed was placed with the Catholic Welfare Agency and moved through foster homes and orphanages, which made him physically sick from separation.
- He credits surviving that trauma with building resilience that paid dividends throughout his life.
Choosing Forward Motion Over Victimhood
- Bouncing between families forced Ed to set his own moral compass by measuring each situation he encountered.
- He chose to avoid self-pity and focus on 'what's next,' turning disadvantages into advantages.
Find One Clear Ticket Out And Pursue It
- Identify a clear "ticket out" and pursue it with focused habits like grades and athletics in Ed's case.
- Concentrate on the two most influential levers available to you and make them your priorities.
