“To give anything less than your best, is to sacrifice the gift.”
Have you struggled with depression or hardship in your life? Are you feeling overwhelmed by self-doubt? In this profile, you will get a glimpse at the life of my friend Jared Oman, how he defines success, what he hopes to be remembered by, and much more!
As a sophomore in high school, Jared underwent a procedure which amputated his leg at the knee. After overcoming tremendous difficulties, both mentally and physically, Jared has exemplified a life full of possibilities. Whether surfing, hiking, running, or exploring, he has not allowed the burden of his circumstance to hinder his enjoyment of life. I have been blessed to become friends with such an amazing person. He truly cares for others and loves showing people how incredible life is by living in a spirit of positive determination.
Here are ten questions intended to showcase who Jared Oman truly is. I hope you enjoy learning more about Jared and leave with an invigorated sense of gratitude for the blessings in your life! If you would like to share your story, reach out and let’s make it a reality!
1. What qualities make for a great role model / mentor?
Being present. There are things we must do alone, but we often need to be reminded that people care, and that we are not alone. A great mentor is caring and leads by example.
2. Who has been the most impactful role model / mentor in your life?
Jacob Dobbins. After my leg was amputated, he pulled me out of my dark depression. He was the first person to show me that life is worth living.
3. What is your definition of success?
Personally, I would define success as being content. Success shouldn’t be measured by money, fame, or any of that stuff. If I am content with how things happened and how things are, then I would consider myself successful.
4. Could you see yourself living the ‘Nomad Lifestyle’? (Van life, truck camper, backpacking, full-time travel) If yes, how would you get started?
Yes! I recently discovered how amazing life on the road is. I would buy a van, build a bed and kitchen as most people do, then map out where I want to see and just go!
5. In what ways has your family dynamic shaped your character? Siblings, parents, etc.
My family has completely shaped who I am today. My mom raised my brother and I, teaching us about respect, discipline, and overall how to be a good human being. Since it is just the three of us, we are extremely close, and they have both helped me in the biggest way with honesty. I can be completely open with them, so I get to tell my mom and brother everything going on in my life.
6. Tell me 3 items on your bucket list, and why you chose each.
1) Travel. I hate the feeling of being in the same place for too long.
2) Find love. I think everyone deserves to feel loved. As someone who has been in love, it is the greatest and scariest thing ever.
3) Be happy. At the end of the day, I hope to share what I did in life with no regrets.
7. If money were no longer a concern, what would you aspire to experience, accomplish, or create in your life?
I would travel. I would move to Iceland for a few months, possibly years. Iceland is gorgeous, and I have always wanted to go there. I would experience different cultures, ways of life, and focus on making memories.
8. Do you feel like you have found your purpose in life?
I think finding purpose in life is an ongoing process for everyone. For me, I hope to connect with other people throughout my life. Even if it is just one conversation, people can change your life, and you may change the lives of others as well.
9. What advice would you give for those battling with depression?
I am often asked this, so I can now point to one piece of advice I would give. Whenever you are dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship problems, etc., remember that light cannot exist without darkness. Life is not meant to be easy, there will be plenty of hard times. Bad times may need to happen for you to truly appreciate and experience the good times.
10. What do you hope people will remember you by?
I hope people remember my resilience, grit, and refusal to ever let a bad situation keep me down.
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