When opportunity knocks

I once read something that said the only difference between the janitor and CEO is opportunity. 

Richard Montanez is the poster child for this idea.  In the late 70’s, Richard was a janitor at Frito-Lay when he had the opportunity to pitch his idea for a new product to the CEO and marketing team.  That product would become what we know as Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, one of the company’s long-running best sellers.  It would later propel the company to launch other products targeted towards ethnic communities and to build marketing teams around them.  It also propelled Richard up the corporate ladder. He is currently executive vice president of multicultural sales and community activation for PepsiCo North America, the parent company of Frito Lay.

Let me give you some background on Richard.  He didn't go to college.  In fact, he didn’t even graduate from high school; opting instead to work his way out of his humble beginnings.  At the time of his pitch, he barely spoke English yet he developed a presentation, designed packaging and created a marketing plan. Despite his circumstances, Richard had a vision for his future that expanded beyond his periphery.  He knew he had what it would take to overcome his circumstances. He saw himself as being successful and allowed an idea he nurtured to completely change his life. 

I love Richard’s story!  It reinforces my belief that anything is possible while inspiring me to crystallize my vision and sow my seeds.  As Iyanla Vanzant says, ‘we have to do our work!’ 

When opportunity comes knocking, will you be able to kick down the door?  

Xoxo,