https://boldjourney.com/meet-
We caught up with the brilliant and insightful David Sledge a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi David, thanks for sharing your insights with our community today. Part of your success, no doubt, is due to your work ethic and so we’d love if you could open up about where you got your work ethic from?
My work ethic is deeply rooted in a combination of personal upbringing, military training, and a strong sense of duty and service.
Early Influences
I was born and raised in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. My values and principles were instilled in me by my parents, particularly my mother, Marie Simon Sledge, who worked for the state of Alabama for 30 years. She demonstrated unwavering dedication and hard work. Marie Simon Sledge’s commitment to her job and her ability to balance her professional and personal responsibilities profoundly impacted me. I observed her perseverance and resilience, learning early on the importance of a strong work ethic. I also got my work ethic from my father, Nahuman Sledge, Sr., who exemplified dedication and perseverance throughout his career. He worked as a truck driver from 1969 to 2016, demonstrating unwavering commitment and hard work for nearly five decades. His determination to provide for our family and his ability to balance the demands of a challenging job instilled in me the values of diligence, responsibility, and resilience. Watching him navigate the ups and downs of his profession with integrity and a strong sense of purpose has profoundly influenced my approach to work and life.
Military Training and Experience
My journey into the U.S. Navy further solidified my work ethic. Enlisting in October 1990, I embarked on a career that would span over three decades. The Navy’s rigorous training programs and demanding environment taught me discipline, responsibility, and the importance of teamwork. Advancing through the ranks to Chief Warrant Officer 5 (CWO5), I faced numerous challenges that required me to demonstrate leadership, adaptability, and a relentless commitment to excellence. Each assignment and promotion reinforced my belief in hard work and continuous improvement.
Leadership and Service
Throughout my career, I held various leadership positions that required me to lead by example. My experiences on multiple ships and at numerous training schools highlighted the necessity of maintaining a high standard of work. The responsibilities of leading and mentoring others underscored my dedication to not only my own growth but also the development of those under my command. My personal awards, including two Meritorious Service Medals and four Navy Commendation Medals, are testaments to my exceptional work ethic and dedication to service.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
As a retired Chief Warrant Officer 5 (CWO5) from the U.S. Navy, I now dedicate my time to empowering others through various initiatives and creative endeavors. My passion lies in supporting veterans and making a positive impact on their lives. I am also the owner of Sledge Collect, a venture that allows me to explore and share my interests in collecting unique and valuable items. Sledge Collective is not just about the items themselves but the stories and histories they represent, bringing a sense of connection and appreciation for the past.
What excites me the most about my work is the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of others. Whether it’s helping a veteran find stable housing or offering guidance through one of my books, the impact is profound and deeply rewarding.
In addition to these initiatives, I am an author and speaker, sharing my experiences and insights through various platforms. My books, including ‘Navigating Life’s Challenges: A Guide to Stress Management, Independent Living Skills, Relationships, Leadership, and Motivation’, ‘Leadership Alchemy: Forging Great Leaders,’ and Embrace Blessings: Trusting the Process and Finding Purpose, and Embrace the Power of Greetings: A Journey of Connection and Inspiration, offer practical advice drawn from my 33 years of military service and personal growth journey.
Looking ahead, I am excited to announce several upcoming projects. We are expanding our programs to reach more veterans nationwide, launching new wellness retreats, and partnering with additional organizations to provide comprehensive support. In the realm of writing, I am working on several new books, including a self-help guide focused on personal growth and resilience, and a collaborative project with my family members that explores motivation and success.
Through my various endeavors, I aim to inspire and empower individuals to overcome challenges, embrace their potential, and lead fulfilling lives. Thank you for your support and interest in my work.