The People Who Believed in You Before You Had Proof (October 23, 2026)

A career plan is more than a list of steps. It is also shaped by the people who encourage us, challenge us and give us a chance before we have much to show.

Sahil Bloom recently shared a reminder that stayed with me: keep track of the people who believed in you early, and take time to tell them what their support meant.

That idea connects to something I wrote in my latest post: motivation is not a career plan. Encouragement can help you take the first step. But a career grows through preparation, relationships, experience and steady action.

Sometimes, another person helps make that first step possible.

Remember who opened the door

Across more than 25 years in college athletics, I’ve learned that careers rarely move forward because of one résumé or one conversation. They grow through many moments: someone offers advice, makes an introduction, trusts you with a responsibility or encourages you to try for an opportunity you might have talked yourself out of.

Those moments can be easy to forget when you’re focused on what comes next.

But remembering them matters. It reminds us that we didn’t do everything alone. It also gives us a chance to thank the people who helped us—and to become that person for someone else.

Gratitude should lead to action

A thank-you is meaningful. A thoughtful update can make it even more personal.

Tell someone what happened after they encouraged you. Share how their advice helped you make a decision or keep going. Be specific. “Thanks for everything” is kind, but “You encouraged me to apply when I wasn’t sure I was ready, and that conversation changed how I approached the opportunity” tells them what their support meant.

Then keep doing the work.

The people who believe in us can offer advice or open a door. We still have to prepare, follow through and earn trust. Gratitude does not replace effort. It gives us a clearer view of the people and choices that helped us get here.

Make your list

Take five minutes and write down the names of people who helped shape your path:

• A teacher or coach who challenged you.
• A supervisor who gave you a chance.
• A friend who encouraged you to apply.
• A mentor who gave honest advice.
• Someone who checked in when you needed it.

Choose one person and reach out this week. Share a real update. Tell them what you appreciate. No ask. No hidden pitch. Just a sincere note.

Then ask yourself: Who might need that kind of encouragement from me right now?

Motivation can fade. A career plan helps you keep moving. And remembering the people who believed in you can help you understand what kind of person you want to be for someone else.