The Power of Decisions
Decisions shape our future. Most of the results we achieve in life stem from our personal choices. While this seems logical, life is often more complex than we expect. Many of us recognize the need for change, yet something inside holds us back from acting.
This struggle is universal but particularly challenging for young adults. They have ambitions but often need someone to encourage and guide them.
Our mentors last week, Catherine and Paul Bruce, aimed to change this mindset. After learning about Cumorah Academy from friends in the United Kingdom, the couple carefully considered the decision to join. After speaking with people involved in the program, they ultimately said “yes” and embraced the opportunity to mentor our students.
A Legacy of Decisions and Experience
The Bruces have fascinating and diverse backgrounds.
Catherine earned a degree in English and Humanities, followed by a master’s degree that allowed her to teach English for over twenty years. She also taught English as a foreign language in Brazil and worked with underprivileged teenagers.
Paul studied Economics and Statistics at university. His career spanned three companies that, at their peaks, were among the largest in the UK in their respective sectors. Over the years, he held leadership roles in Strategy, Operations, and Supply Chain within the Finance industry.
Beyond their professional achievements, the Bruces find their greatest joy in family. They have four children and ten grandchildren.
Their rich experience in business, education, and life inspired them to join our program. They believe today’s generation faces unique challenges that require wisdom and resilience. Young adults are at a pivotal moment where their decisions will have lifelong consequences.
Teaching the Art of Decision-Making
Understanding the importance of decisions, Catherine and Paul eagerly shared their experiences with our students. “It’s a great privilege to be chosen to be here,” said Catherine.
When we ask mentors about their experience, many express a shared trust and love for this generation. The Bruces are no exception. Their mission was to teach students how to make better decisions, particularly in the area of building successful habits.
Interestingly, their lessons revolved around decision-making and habits for success. With countless books, podcasts, and articles on this topic, Catherine and Paul emphasized the value of perspective and perseverance. James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, aptly said, “Habits are the ‘compound interest of self-improvement.’” Decisions shape habits, and habits shape our future.
The Bruces reminded students to maintain optimism and embrace failure as part of the growth process. “Especially at this formative stage, if you can pick up really good habits and get rid of some bad ones by replacing them with better habits, you really are setting yourself up for success in all areas of your life,” Catherine explained.
Decisions That Shape the Future
“Setting yourself up for success.” This line from Catherine encapsulates the mission of our program. This is indeed a formative stage for our students—a time for critical decisions that will define their future.
Our students are eager to unlock their potential. They only need to make the right decisions to pave the way forward.
Thanks to mentors like Paul and Catherine, our students now believe they are the architects of their lives, capable of shaping their destinies, one decision at a time.
The couple shared their experience mentoring students in the clip below:
Written by Fernando L. Ferreira Jr.
Photos by Natalia Lopez
Supervision by Kamila Uberto Fullmer
