It’s a reality – we all start at the bottom.
A 4-star general? Started out as a second lieutenant.
A Fortune 500 CEO? Started as the new guy or gal in the cubicle nobody noticed.
A Super Bowl-winning head coach? Probably began as the assistant to the assistant to the assistant quality control coach.
Even Michael Jordan got cut from his middle school basketball team before becoming the icon we all know.
So what separates those who stay stuck from those who rise to the top?
Sure—talent and timing matter. But the biggest difference?
Hunger and curiosity.
Hunger to get better. Curiosity to understand more.
Those who ask the most questions, seek context, stay late to learn, and get their hands dirty early—they’re the ones who grow the fastest.
And here’s the good news: Hunger and curiosity aren’t inherited—they’re chosen.
And that choice starts on Day 1.
On this week’s episode of Leadership Blueprints, I sat down with Coty Fournier—a construction industry veteran who’s done it all: GC, owner’s rep, entrepreneur, consultant, and author. Her message?
“The trailer ain’t the field.”
The best careers are built by those who get close to the work, listen deeply, and never lose their drive to ask “why?” even after they’ve been promoted.
Want to lead? Start by being curious.
Here’s how:
- Ask Questions – Especially the ones others are afraid to ask.
- Show Interest – In people, in process, in outcomes.
- Seek Context – Understand the bigger picture, not just your task.
- Do the Work – Real learning happens where the work gets done.
Stay hungry. Stay curious.
BJ
