Why I'm Thankful!

Recently, I had an opportunity to speak to an amazing group of high school students. During my presentation entitled, “The Importance of Personal Brand,” I shared about my personal academic path, my advancement in my professional career, and my overall entrepreneurial journey. As the students sat and listened, hanging on to every word - it dawned on me that I truly have a powerful story and a lot to be thankful for. 

I have had various opportunities to speak in front of audiences, but something about this time was different. There was a realization that by me sharing my experiences, could positively change the trajectory of the lives of these young people. For me, that was a powerful moment. 

Speaking to this group of teenagers, I recalled all the choices and decisions that I faced when I was their age while battling the unanswered question as to what lied ahead for my academic future beyond high school. What I was sure of, was my skill at drawing in which made me certain I would major in some area of visual arts in college, although, early on, I wasn’t quite sure what college to attend. I also still had the decision of whether to pursue drawing and painting, graphic design or fashion design. 

I was privileged to have had a very close relationship with my art teacher, Mrs. Daughtry. She was someone I truly admired and respected. I vividly remember her telling me one day,  “Just pursue what you love, because you’re going to excel at whatever you do!” These words have stayed with me and I’m so grateful to have had a supportive role model like Mrs. Daughtry in my corner. Ultimately, I majored in drawing and painting at Georgia State University. 

My life has taken many twists and turns since that conversation with my beloved art teacher, but I’ve always kept her words close to my heart. In this same way, It’s my hope that the words I imparted onto the students, inspired them to continue to walk towards their own journey of greatness. 

With Thanksgiving being later this month, I’m truly thankful for so many things; my family, friends, my business, and being able to share my gifts and experiences with others, like I was able to do with those high school students. I’m also thankful for each and everyone of you that supports me whether as a client, email subscriber, social media follower or reader of my blog. I’m grateful for each one of you and wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Fear Doesn’t Have To Be A Spooky Proposition!

Autumn is officially here. The change in seasons means cooler temperatures, incorporating fall attire back into your wardrobe and for many, football season; whether college or NFL.

With the Fall season, ushers in October; the month many celebrate Halloween or an alternate version of it. It’s generally a holiday synonymous with ghosts, goblins and all things creepy and scary; bringing to mind the word “fear.” This has got me thinking that just because we may see or experience fear, doesn’t mean we have to allow it to debilitate us. Matter of fact, I propose letting it be the drive to propel us! 

Naturally, it seems so much easier to operate within a comfort zone, but for me, I often have some of my greatest “wins” when I move past my fear into a place of uncertainty. This couldn’t be more true in my role as a business owner as recently, my company took on a new client. Though I was excited about the new partnership, I was a little afraid that my limited familiarity with their industry was going to affect how successful I would be at providing what they needed. I couldn’t have been more wrong. 

After our initial consultation, I did my research on the industry and found there was a real opportunity for my new client to fill a needed void. Devising a strong brand strategy, my team and I worked with the client to bring our combined vision to life. This is certainly an example where I could have allowed my premature fears to prevent me from the opportunity of working with a new client. I’m so thankful I was able to push through those fears, and conquer my vision. Working with this particular client has been so amazing in that I have expanded the use of my creativity along with much more.

I know it can be a scary proposition to not be able to know how things are going to turn out. But, don’t let fear be the reason for not doing, or at least, trying something new. You just never know, it may be just the thing that will change the trajectory of your life or current situation, which is a treat we all can appreciate. Happy Halloween!

On Your Mark...Get Set...Goals!

There’s nothing like having a goal and seeing it through. What lies in the middle are the stories, memories, and history that make up the journey; it’s those sleepless nights, early mornings, detailed “to-do” lists, and an unrelenting spirit. 

Often times, the emphasis is put on life’s bigger goals, such as buying a home, getting married, furthering your education or even starting a business. Sometimes, just as much attention should be given to the smaller goals like limiting the amount of time on social media, drinking more water, organizing that cluttered kitchen drawer or taking time to read that book that sits on the shelf that you purchased months ago. 

Recently, I completed a goal to go through my wardrobe and bag up all the clothes, shoes and accessories that I had grown tired of or that just didn’t suit my current style. Besides it being a therapeutic experience, I was also able to mark this off as another goal completed. Mission accomplished! Additionally, I had tremendous satisfaction in knowing these items were going to an organization committed to providing resources to those in need. 

The great thing about setting and accomplishing those smaller goals is that it can serve as the fertile ground from which larger goals can be aspired, cultivated and realized. It’s very likely you will encounter brief obstacles, challenges and a lack of motivation from time to time. But, on the other side is the sweet reward of seeing a goal to the end.  

Time has a way of being our best friend, or our worst enemy when it comes to goals. Sometimes, it can just be that we have unrealistic expectations for what is required and how much time will be needed to meet the goal. Writing out your goals or even sharing it with a trusted person in your life can make all the difference in you accomplishing those goals.

Ultimately, whether it’s a big goal or a little one, what’s important is that it provides a positive learning experience for you and those around you. You’ll see how amazing it is for the example we set in fulfilling our goals can be a great motivation to others.