• • • • •
Robert Pace is an avid sports fan and believes that sports play a strong role in life because it touches so many aspects of personal interactions and overall growth.
Robert wrote a book about his experience with his mother, who had Alzheimer’s. He never thought he’d write a book about something so personal, but the long nights of typing were therapeutic. He hopes the book will help others who are having to navigate the same challenge with their loved ones, and he knows his mother would be happy that their experience together could help someone.
Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Robert now resides in Allen, Texas, with his family. You can connect with Robert Pace on LinkedIn.
• • • • •
IN WHICH GENERATION DO YOU BELONG?
Generation Jones: 1955 – 1964
DO YOU WORK? IF SO, WHAT DO YOU DO?
Yes, still in the workforce and having fun with the changes in technology. I’m Vice President, Information Security and CISO for Invitation Homes. I’m responsible for leading the Technology Security Program.
WHAT WOULD THE 25-YEAR-OLD VERSION OF YOU THINK OF YOU TODAY?
The 25-year-old Robert would be surprised I learned to slow down. That I learned to understand how to replenish my energy fuel tank, to enjoy the quiet walk in the park each night, to have morning breakfasts at my favorite diner. The 25-year-old Robert would be surprised that I now willingly go for quiet moments instead of the carousel of hectic responsibilities.
Today, I enjoy conversations with folks throughout the day, no matter what I’m doing. I take time to just chat. You just don’t know if the other person may have needed that moment of connection to help them through a rough patch. All in all, I’m more intentional in my conversations. It may be just getting along in age, but I hope it is more of ‘wisdom’ to choose to slow down just a tad and enjoy the days and the people I encounter along this path.
WHAT HAS NOT CHANGED ABOUT YOU?
I still enjoy learning and solving complex things, I just have more experiences to utilize and reference now. I still get an internal charge when something that was initially not solvable has been completed. From small home repairs to new personal bests in the gym, removing certain items from my diet, etc. It makes me smile when my family says, “Yep, that part of you is the same as when you were little.”
GOOD OR BAD, WHAT ABOUT MIDLIFE HAS SURPRISED YOU SO FAR?
I can now recall so many historic sporting events that I sometimes feel like a history book myself! 😀
When I chat with younger professionals these days, I can see potential paths for them, other options for them to pursue, and I’m now able to provide gentle guidance to help them along. This has been a fulfilling change for me.
WHAT ONE HABIT ARE YOU ACTIVELY WORKING ON THESE DAYS?
Consistently taking time each morning to be reflective and appreciate that day, that moment in time, rain or shine. Just a few moments to appreciate the day before me and the day that just passed. Now that I’m in midlife, I believe it’s good to have more appreciation of time.
WHAT BRINGS YOU THE MOST JOY THESE DAYS AND WHY?
Seeing others progress and accomplish their goals. I think I am moving to that motivator stage and have some wisdom to share.
WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT THESE DAYS?
All of life is good. Not trying to sound too corny, but it is true. I am happy about mostly everything. The is goodness all around. You just have to believe it!
Looking at life, the amount of technology that is at our fingertips, when earlier it was thought only to be in the far distant future. I am actually living the high-end technology that was only written about in the books from grade school and old comic books. That is pretty cool!
IF YOU COULD GIVE A 20-YEAR-OLD PERSON SOME WORDS OF WISDOM OR PIECE OF ADVICE, WHAT MIGHT IT BE?
Don’t get lost in the instant rewards of life. Life is more of a slow cooking but good chili. It takes time. But, oh, how good it is when finished. Keep your vision of what you want to do and follow your vision. Even if others can’t see it, follow your vision. You will get some advice along the way. Know how to take in the good, and use the bad advice to navigate better toward your vision.
Keep close to you those who will give you points of correction, and you know they are true and not trying to harm you. Also, know how to reciprocate. The ability to give good counsel and receive it — it goes both ways.
We’ve got a pair of eyes, a pair of ears, and only one mouth. Therefore observing and listening more will be your advantage. Listen more, and you will gain a lot.
AND THE MOST IMPORTANT QUESTION: WHO WAS YOUR FAVORITE SINGER/BAND GROWING UP?
Without a doubt, Luther Vandross. So smooth, and he had an outstanding voice. I remember going to one of his concerts, it was a complete show. I can remember it to this day! If only I could sing that smoothly.
• • • • •
