Paul Valerio had been working at a family-owned-and-operated Ford dealership for 15 years when COVID-19 hit. “The hours are very long in the car business,” he explains, “so when we had to close the dealership for 53 days, that time home with my wife made me realize I needed to make a change.”
Two weeks after posting his resume, he got a call from MarketSource. “I have never been so afraid in my entire life,” he reflects. “The thought of leaving a familiar job for something new was scary…but I learned that everything you want is on the other side of fear.” Two-and-a-half years later, Paul says he feels extremely lucky to have been given that opportunity.
Even before he was promoted to his current role as District Manager, Paul was recognized by his teammates for his leadership capacity and mentorship skills. “I believe you should be the person you wish was there for you when you needed it…and do it with the expectation of getting nothing in return,” he says. “It personally brings me great joy.”
Something else that brings Paul great joy is creating art and gifting various pieces to people. He has experimented with all kinds of art, such as woodworking, 3D design and printing, laser engraving, etching, resin art, and more. At the moment, he is using a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine to conduct repeat manufacturing steps in a 3D environment. “I’ve enjoyed art for as long as I can remember,” he says. “I love to tinker and create. It’s relaxing for me. Sometimes I’ll think of a cool idea related to something a family member, friend, or coworker likes, and I’ll make it for them as a surprise. It’s fun, and being kind to others is good for you!”
“I have never been so afraid in my entire life,” he reflects. “The thought of leaving a familiar job for something new was scary…but I learned that everything you want is on the other side of fear.”
Finding peace through art and feeling fulfilled professionally has given Paul the ideal work/life balance. Says Paul, “When I’m not in the field supporting my team, my commute is down the stairs and to the left. I for sure made the right call! Working at MarketSource has been an excellent journey so far.”
#WorkLifeBalance #Kindness #Art #MarketSourceProud