I want to be a rockstar!

No, I don't wish I was a rockstar, I actually want to be a rockstar. I want to walk up on the stage, lights in my eyes and have a crowd of 200 to 2000 break into wild applause.

Here's the only thing—I can't sing, I can't play an instrument, and I can't read music.

My rockstar dreams were dashed by none other than a 4th grade choir teacher, Mrs. Beaver, honest to god, that was her name—now I know why she taught elementary school and not middle or high school ;)

I'll never forget it, she asked me to sing a few notes in her ear, A then C - she said, "Oh no honey, you can't sing." And so- I joined the traffic patrol crew- because that was the next best thing.

I didn't spend too much time unwinding that whole rejection thing until much later in life, actually I wasn't that upset about it at the time or even now; I know I can't sing. My husband sings beautifully, my son sings and plays guitar and all the boys have musical talent - not me. I'll never be a rockstar.

But I surround myself with music, go see live music, visit open mic nights (watching of course), live concerts and I love every minute of it. I surround myself with what I love and what makes me happy—and I find success in that.

There it is—that is it.

Even though I am not a rock star and never will be, I surround myself with those that lift me up—teach me, bring me joy. It is parallel to my career.

In fundraising, there is a lot I know, I have researched and studied many successful fundraising techniques. I understand how to build relationships and to encourage and excite donors to want to give.

For the things I don't know as well, I find others who are experts, listen and learn, and I invite them to join me in the band. This brings me joy and success!

As a rockstar, you're only as good as the people that surround you, lift you up, and make sure you never skip a beat.

Rock On!!