As we journey through life, the power of self-belief acts as our guiding light, illuminating the path toward realizing our deepest desires. It's this unwavering confidence in ourselves that shapes the outcomes we dare to dream of that we want to see become reality. Yet, understanding our worth and embodying that belief is only part of the equation. The gap between where we stand and where we wish to be often requires more than just self-assurance; it often calls for aligned support, and a guiding hand(s) to help bridge the divide.

Most of us are familiar with the term 'glass ceiling' - the unseen barrier hindering women from top corporate roles. Yet, there's a lesser-known but equally critical concept: the 'glass cliff'. This metaphor extends the challenge beyond just reaching leadership positions. It's about the precariousness that often accompanies these roles, especially for Black women and women of color. This results in a role fraught with unsustainable workloads, lack of support, and unrecognized efforts, leading to burnout and frustration. You can change that!

Think of your personal brand of what people say about you when you’re not in the room. What would you want them to say about you? Whether you are intentional about it or not, you are creating a personal brand with everything interaction folks have with you; you are your own walking advertisement. It is important to understand what brand image you are conveying and how to develop a Unique Value Proposition that positions you for success.

Have you considered what it means to truly shine in your career? For each of us, the definition of shining is personal, rooted in our unique passions, aspirations, and values. Shining can be about aligning with our purpose, expressing our authentic selves, and making a meaningful impact in the arenas we’re in.

At a certain point in my life, even though I was great at my job, I knew it was not my purpose. For years I’d been trying to find that right gig that would light up my heart. When I found image consulting, my inner fire was ignited. This was it! So I left the comfort, security, steady pay, and familiarity of my career to leap into the unknown where I had no road map, guide, or certainty. But I had an inner fire, passion, faith, and belief that I had what it took to make it happen. But I realized there are aspects of my life I’m pretty private about and my growth edge with authenticity is to be more open about those when appropriate and in the right context. To lean into that muscle today, here are a few things you may not know about me...maybe.

There is SO much power in the pause. When I can slow down and listen to what my heart and gut are saying to me, I realize that some of my choices are misaligned with my true desires. Because at those times, I’m operating in reactive mode versus one of intentionality.

Your energy or “vibe” is not just a physical force; it is a culmination of your thoughts, emotions, and authentic essence. When harnessed effectively, it becomes a catalyst for transformation and an essential component of your leadership toolkit. By understanding and optimizing your energetic presence, you can unlock a whole new level of leadership brilliance.

Let us reflect a bit on that thing that often gets overlooked: our own well-being and personal growth. When we neglect our own health and happiness, it can have a significant impact on those around us too. With that in mind, I want you to ask yourself three simple questions.

Overthinking not only hinders our decision-making but also affects our overall well-being. It robs us of the present moment, leaving us unfulfilled and disconnected from our true potential. By constantly dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, we miss out on the opportunities right in front of us. Fortunately, there are practical strategies that can help us break free from the cycle of excessive rumination and self-doubt.

Your strengths, talents, and expertise want to shine more brightly in this season of your life, because you have been called to lead in a purpose you are especially designed to fulfill. So aren’t you tired of kicking the “invest in my professional growth” can down the road? The time is NOW. May this post demonstrate the benefit of surrendering and going with the flow rather than trying to control the results you want in your life and career.

The work you do isn’t about impressing folks so don’t let perfectionism and imposter syndrome derail you. It’s about the gratification, joy, and fulfillment of doing magnificent work that impacts those in our sphere that matters most.

Many high-achieving women miss their mark because they are so focused on their Do that they do not mind their Who. They think by doing and accumulating more achievements that they’re operating in their full brilliance but they’re not because they can’t fully tap into it because they haven’t learned to savor, to pause, to integrate what they’re getting done. There is a better, more spirit-led way

The cycles of life are part of many aspects of our lives, including our careers. The season of Autumn is all about receiving and celebrating our growth, achievements, and wins. But as a high achiever, how good are you at taking the time to savor your win? I pray my testimony about my business Elan Image Management inspires you to savor your successes more intentionally.

This summer, I invite you to recharge, renew, and regroup by unplugging for a weekend, a week, or more. In these challenging times, your self-care needs to be prioritized so that you can return with the replenishment you need to make your impact.

Your boundaries help you to maintain healthy connections with others and also help you stay connected to yourself safely and healthily. You can't truly show up for others unless you show up for yourself first. Here are a few ways to engage in self-care this Valentine’s Day!

High achieving women are naturally hardwired to work hard. They willingly devote hours and energy to their role and take satisfaction in being productive. Just the act of completing tasks fulfills them. But as much as they do, these leaders are woefully inadequate in acknowledging their wins. Here’s why that matters.

Excellence is active—it is about doing, not simply being. But what really drives a person to excel? I think if we observed the habits of those who we hold in high esteem for their commitment to excellence, we will find they are I.N.S.P.I.R.E.D: Innovative, Nimble, Success-driven, Purposeful, Integrity, Results-oriented, Engaged, Diligent.