9 Key Lessons I’ve Learned in Life
After 44 spins around the sun and 27 years of unwavering pursuit, I figure it’s time I share with you the profound lessons I've gathered along the way.
These lessons are woven into the very fabric of my entrepreneurial journey—a journey propelled by the relentless pursuit of living boldly and chasing my dreams.
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Lesson 1: Trust Your Inner Voice
The voyage begins in the small town of Ruston, Louisiana, where I always felt a restless desire to escape, to explore life in bustling metropolises like New York City or Paris. And it's a pivotal lesson I learned right here: never ignore that inner voice that whispers your true destiny.
Lesson 2: Be Relentless In Pursuit of Your Dreams
A pivotal chapter emerges from my summers on my grandparents' farm in Ohio, a world filled with baby pig runts and an insatiable desire to save them. This relentless spirit, even in the face of the impossible, is a fundamental lesson that you can apply to your entrepreneurial journey.
Lesson 3: Embrace Change Fearlessly
Life often takes unexpected turns. For me, this came in the form of settling in New Orleans after dreaming of conquering the fashion world in New York. In times of change, remember this lesson: if you don't take risks, you risk even more. Be open to life's surprises, and you'll discover uncharted opportunities.
Lesson 4: Follow Your Intuition
A thrilling twist ensued when I embarked on a journey to Nashville after the tumultuous Hurricane Katrina. Six months of job hunting and doubts left me questioning my path. But by following my intuition and taking chances, I found myself at the heart of the music industry. This taught me that it's okay to start over and never settle for less than what you're meant for.
Lesson 5: Seize Opportunities and Set Boundaries
Back in New Orleans, I yearned for home and missed the flavors, the people, and the vibes. With every itch, there's an opportunity. This lesson speaks to the power of never underestimating the value of your pursuits. Grab chances with both hands, but remember to set clear boundaries and stand up for yourself.
And then, there's the story of my naming my PR and Branding agency as "Bats on Strings" on a whim. The lesson here: think long-term, plan your brand's name as if it's going to last for years, and save yourself from the rebranding woes that I had to endure.
Lesson 6: Don’t Overthink, Just Do
Imagine launching a clear handbag business with a mere sketch on a napkin. This risk-taking spirit and audacity to be the first in the market is the quintessence of the lesson that you should embrace - sometimes, overthinking can deter you from extraordinary opportunities.
Lesson 7: Stand Up For Your Ideas
When entrepreneurship gets messy, don't back down. There might be challenges and belittlement on your path, but always remember to stand up for your big ideas. The ultimate lesson here: your worth, your ideas, and your dreams are worth defending.
Lesson 8: Find a Support System
Amidst all this chaos, I created the Riverbend Collective—a co-working space and support system for my growing team. The entrepreneurial journey can be lonely; the solution is to create your tribe without feeling pressured to be the sole hub for them.
Lesson 9: Know Your Numbers
Lastly, an invaluable lesson from my time spent juggling far too many businesses at once—know your numbers. Don't fly blindfolded as a business owner. The confidence of knowing your financials can be the difference between success and turbulence. This is the equivalent of taking off that blindfold for a pilot.
Your journey is a unique path, filled with twists and turns, and it's your inner courage that will light the way. Today, embrace your audacious spirit and embark on your journey to live boldly and make your dreams a reality.
To hear the full story, tune into Episode 1 of the This or More podcast.
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