Ross Jensen, MBA ’14: To Experience Joy, Get Beyond Serving Yourself

A teacher finds that doing for others in ways both big and small can make the difference between frustration and fulfillment.

June 10, 2014

Image

Ross Jensen, MBA ’14 | ToniBird Photography

This series features our students’ reflections on their aspirations, learnings, challenges, and joys. Here, Ross tells how a change of focus led to increased joy and satisfaction in his life.

Early in my career, I served as a public school teacher. My first year was rough. The turning point came when a colleague interrupted my complaining about how difficult my students were making things for me and reminded me, bluntly, “This isn’t about you.” He was right, of course. As soon as I focused less on my needs and more on serving my students, I became a better teacher and a more joyous person.

Quote
Whenever I feel happy and fulfilled, it’s generally the case that I’ve been focused on serving others.

Now, whenever I feel frustrated or depressed, it’s generally the case that I’ve been thinking about me; I’ve been focused on making sure my own needs are met. Whenever I feel happy and fulfilled, it’s generally the case that I’ve been focused on serving others, on helping them improve their lives or just making them smile. High-impact, long-term service really drives me, but small things like writing thank-you notes, holding doors open for others, or giving heartfelt compliments bring me the greatest joy.

For media inquiries, visit the Newsroom.

Explore More

May 23, 2023
Written
At the College Board, Steve Bumbaugh is all about access.
Steve Bumbaugh in front of yellow background looking at camera smiling. Credit: Cheriss May
May 19, 2023
Written
Stanford Impact Founder Fellow launched Patch Caregiving to help parents in emergencies.
Portrait of Sarah Alexander. Credit: Saul Bromberger
May 18, 2023
Written
Stanford GSB announces Stanford Impact Leader and Miller Awards.
Photo collage of students, clockwise from top left: Eric Kotin, Anisha Mudaliar, Alvina Jiao, Joseff Kolman, Irfan Mahmud. Credit: Photos by courtesy.