RTDM: Rebecca Sturtz

Rebecca Sturtz
Regional Director of Operations for Senior Living
Charlotte NC

We want to get to know you! Briefly tell us about yourself: Where you came from, where you've been and how you live your dream (or are working toward it). 

I am originally from Maryland but moved to Denver in my 20s, 2 months after I got married. My job has allowed be to live in amazing parts of the country. In my teenage years, my grandmother was diagnosed with dementia and she moved in with us so my mom could take care of her. I saw the awful process of this disease and the burden it put on families to care for someone with dementia. Ever since then I knew I wanted to take care of seniors and help find a cure for Alzheimer's. I hope that in my lifetime we will find a cure for this awful disease and find better ways to provide services and care to our seniors.

How do you define success and how do you stay motivated to keep working toward it? 

Success to me in never giving up until you reach your goal but never forgetting that the journey is just as important as the goal. I have always been a motivated person and giving up is not in my vocabulary. But when life gets busy sometimes our goals seem out of reach. I like to get up before the sunrises and run. This time to myself, with fresh air and pavement at my feet always gives the grounding I need to stay focused.

What’s been your biggest challenge, perceived failure or fear and how did you overcome it? 

As a young child I always had a fear of failure in my parents eyes. I was a people pleaser and not one to step outside my comfort zone. I will never forget the day when my step father forced me to try out for the high school golf team. At the time they only had a boys team but needed another player. I remember being embarrassed to face the tryouts but more importantly did not want to fail a group boys in my school. I tried out with much resistance and made the team. That year I made it to the State Championship. That moment in my life made me realize that I could do anything if I just believe in myself and forget what others think about me.

What’s the best advice you’d give to a younger you? 

Don't be afraid to fail.

Share a book, quote and/or idea that's impacted you the most:

I always felt connected with the Robert Frost poem " The Road Not Taken."

What are you most proud of? Go ahead, boast a little!

I finished my first half Ironman this year.

What is something surprising about you?

I was in Naval Junior ROTC as a teenager

What is your favorite vice/guilty pleasure/strange habit? Come on now, we all have them!

Coffee and sushi.

Share a time when a perceived failure was actually a blessing in disguise.

I was interviewing for my "dream job" and did not get it. I ended up taking a job that moved my family to North Carolina. We have enjoyed every minute of it and have met some amazing people.

What's the smartest investment you’ve made for yourself?

Taking time for myself. We forget in the hustle and bustle of our crazy lives that if we cannot take care of ourselves, then it's hard to care for others.

What’s MOST important to you right now?

Before my kids leave for school every morning, I remind them of 3 things: BE KIND, BE BRAVE and DO SOMETHING NICE FOR SOMEONE ELSE TODAY! These things along with the normal answers (family and friends), mean that I have impacted the world in some way each and every day.

Who is the Risk Taker Dream Maker(s) that inspires you?

Erin Hayes