From "Behind the Bridge" to the Presidency of the American Psychological Association: Lessons Learned on an Unplanned Journey

• Published in: The American psychologist 2023-07, Vol.78 (5), p.637-649
• Main Author: Worrell, Frank C.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Ability; American Psychological Association; Development; Neighborhoods; Professionalism; Top Level Managers
• ISSN: 0003-066X; 1935-990X
• DOI: 10.1037/amp0001181

In this article, I provide an account of my journey from an impoverished neighborhood in the capital of Trinidad and Tobago to the presidency of the American Psychological Association (APA). Using the talent development megamodel as a framework, I recount events from my family, my K-12 schooling, my college years, and my time as an academic. I end with a few of the many lessons learned along the way. I hope that this story about my journey can inspire others who may think they are unlikely to aspire to the APA presidency to not allow their doubts to be a barrier to trying to fulfill their hopes and aspirations. Public Significance Statement The principle of equifinality speaks to multiple paths leading to the same outcome. In this article, I describe the meandering path that led to me becoming the president of the American Psychological Association. An important aspect of this story is that the destination was not planned, but came about due to support, taking advantage of opportunities, not allowing the hard times to derail me, and being open to the chance. I hope that this account is useful to those who are planners and those who are willing to aim high as they follow their passions.