Inspiring Interview With Alex Tauras

I was contacted by a young man who asked me to share his story in hopes that it will inspire you, particularly you young people. I was impressed with the depth of Alex’s excitement and time spent sharing his story and it is my privilege to share his story now – and his answers to some of my interview questions. Alex loves motor sports and cars. Take time to thoroughly read what he had to say – I believe you will find it interesting.

1. What are a few interesting things about yourself?

I was adopted from the west side of Chicago and was born to a 16 year old. I love to play tennis and golf. I was undefeated my senior year in tennis playing the #2 Varsity spot. I won “The Most Determined” award that same year. I’m a closet nerd when it comes to technology :) I haven’t had a girlfriend in the last few years due to me being so determined to get to where I’m at now.

2. Who are some people you look up to in the world today and why?

I definitely look up to everyone in the armed forces past and present. Without them the United States wouldn’t be what it is today. I also look up to all of the intellectuals throughout the ages that were persecuted for their lifes work. I honestly believe that without the brilliant minds of the past, the world would be much different.

Humpy Wheeler for being determined to make Charlotte Motor Speedway (formerly Lowes Motor Speedway) what it is today. He had some radical ideas and crazy ways of doing things, but he proved that something can be made from nothing. Lastly, Travis Pastrana (American Rally Championship driver for Team Subaru USA / Action Sports Athlete) for constantly pushing himself and the limits of the human body to achieve things that were thought to never be possible. He’s taught me to never give up no matter how ridiculously hopeless the situation seems.

3. What was the moment(s) in life that shifted you to becoming who you are today?

First and foremost, my best friends death from drug overdose. It made me really reflect on my life and it definitely changed me for the better. I also think that my cousin Mitch has shaped my life. If it wasn’t for him coming over during the summer a few years ago with his 2003 Subaru Impreza WRX, I wouldn’t have found my passion in life.

4. How do you get yourself motivated and excited each day?

Honestly, all it takes is me remembering how hard I worked to get down here to Charlotte, NC and that I’m finally pursuing my passion and dream in life.

5. If a djinni appeared to you and granted you three wishes, what would they be?

I’m guessing “djinni” is genie? :)

1) It is so cliche, but I’d want world peace.

2) Everyone to have enough money to live comfortably.

3) Show everyone that’s inspired and backed me 100% that I’m truly grateful for everything.

6. What advice would you give to those struggling in their life to find excitement or inspiration?

1) If you are truly passionate about something, and you work hard enough towards attaining it…you will find a way to get there.

2) BIG rewards require BIG ambitions. (For me, I’ve always wanted to do something in the motorsports field, and my ambition to attain it was large enough to have it pay off).

3) If things don’t work out as planned, don’t get down and think it’ll never happen. (It took me a year and a half of relentless studying to get the grades needed to get into this college, even after being rejected the first time).

4) This might not be true for everyone, but for me I needed to find that burning desire that would motivate me. That one single dream or goal that I had such a fixation on (motorsports) was my motivation.

5) Don’t be scared or embarrassed to dream big. (I never thought I’d be doing what I’m doing right now).

6) Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Mistakes happen, but its what you learn from it that will help you in the long run.

7. What are a few of the biggest challenges you face when making changes/shifts for the better?

Am I really making the right choice? Should I really take that step off the ledge and just go head on in following my heart and my dreams?

8. When you first meet a girl, what are the first things you notice?

Honestly, it starts at the top. I’m a sucker for sparkling eyes…the eyes that could melt the coldest of hearts. Then the smile, etc. Personality I’ll notice after talking with her for a little…so thats why it wasn’t #1. Personality is HUGE for me….and her looks are considered a bonus ;)

9. What is your favorite thing about the work you do at your day job?

Well, I’m a college student. Does sleeping count? Just kidding! When I am at work, I’m usually like a kid in the worlds biggest candy store. I get to work on the cars I love most (Subaru’s and Mitsubishi Evo’s) and as a work benefit, I get to oogle the Lamborghini’s, Ferrari’s, Ford GT’s, Vipers, and Audi R8′s that the shop across the way twin turbo’s and tunes. In a nut shell…I basically work at a gearheads fantasy land :)

10. What do you hope to get out of life when it is all said and done?

That’s a really tough question. I hope that one day I’ll find that perfect girl, the girl who can make any problems fade away with a simple smile. I hope that I can change peoples lives and show them that dreams can come true. Lastly, I hope that people learn from my mistakes and use them to make their own life better after I leave this world. I can honestly keep writing, but I think that’s good enough.

Alex has his head on straight. For someone in their early 20′s, I have no doubt he is going to do awesome work throughout his life. Keep up your good work Alex!