MAY-JUNE 2020
The future of travel is female Meet two founders changing the world of business travel for women
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OU ELP Y TO H T, LEAD S P I C T NNE CE CO I N F L U E N AND OTHERS
CONNECT. INFLUENCE. LEAD. leadupforwomen.com
Tessa Horovitz, Co-founder, AMETTI
Sharing powerful Stories LIVE each week on our new podcast Whoever says endless opportunity does not exist needs to stop limiting themselves by their beliefs that exist between their ears. Our goal with Lead Up for Women is to empower as many women as we possibly can to Show Up, Be Seen, and to be the best version of themselves. Having a podcast enables us to do just that. Are you ready to lead without permission and take the steps needed to live your best life? Whether you want to start the business of your dreams, learn the steps needed to love what you do, or celebrate your present and future accomplishments, our podcast will dive into deeper subjects with weekly guests who have already walked in your shoes. Let the experts guide you to a clearer path to the future. Our show will be the perfect platform to be motivated and inspired, to advertise your business, network, and hear about Lead Up’s upcoming events. With more than 20,000 listeners, we have the opportunity to pioneer global change for women today, as well as in the future. We invite you to tune in to Lead Up for Women: Speak Up to Lead Up, weekly live on Facebook (on our Lead Up for Women FB page) or on any podcast outlet when you have time to listen. We are on Spotify, Apple Play, Google Play, Stitcher, and iTunes.
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Contents May • June 2020
Owned & Operated by Women’s Association, LLC Mailing Address 10522 E Sheffield Dr. Mesa, AZ 852112
The future of travel is female
Editorial Contributing Writer Rochelle Brandvein rochelle@brandveinpr.com 636.530.7225
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Website & technical Support Shapeshift World Lorenzo@shapeshiftcompany.com 480.886.8005 PR social@leadupforwomen.com 602-730-5121 Membership Information membership@leadupforwomen.com 480-241-3708 General Inquiry info@leadupforwomen.com 602-730-5121
BUSINESS
4 Founder’s Corner: Showing up post COVID-19
LIFESTYLE
8 So, tell me again — what role do you play?
Art Director BOC design, Inc. brent@bocdesigninc.com 404-402-0125 Circulation/Subscriptions subscriptions@leadupforwomen.com LUFW Management: Colleen Biggs: Chief People Officer colleenb@leadupforwomen.com 480-241-3708
6 Kiss Corporate Goodbye
LEADERSHIP
10 I Am Enough
14 Reinventing yourself Who will you be post COVID-19?
PHILANTHROPY
David Corson: Operations Manager davidc@leadupforwomen.com 404-931-6569
24 How to make peace with energy vampires 30 10 tips to help you connect, lead and influence others
Lead Up for Women General Inquiry 602.730.5121 membership@leadupforwomen.com
22 Be a price leader
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12 How near death can change your future and those you serve
26 A united front
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3
Founders Corner
Showing up post COVID-19
W
ow! Whose head is spinning over the past four months after being quarantined and living through a pandemic? Mine sure is. As many of you are just starting to emerge from your homes, there are many ideas and opportunities you may be contemplating. For me, I am looking at how we can leverage more online opportunities for all of our members. What about you? What are you planning to leverage coming out of this? In the last issue, I shared all the ways we could SHOW UP and BE SEEN during this unprecedented time. Did you take advantage of any of the ideas and offerings? Lead Up has always been positioned to provide platforms virtually, and for that reason, our membership grew by leaps and bounds over the past four months! That means there are more members for you to collaborate with. Have you created your online presence in our Member Directory? Have you connected with anyone in the Member Directory? Showing up is not just about being on-time for an appointment or being invited to speak on stage. Showing up is about being present, BIG TIME, in everything you do, taking action and being seen everywhere, all the time, in every way. My challenge to you now is to purposefully SHOW UP. Try it, you just might like the way it feels. Over the next several months, as businesses get back to work, travelers head out on the road and children flood schools again, I would like to challenge each of you to remember to STAY CONNECTED. You have had time to grow your businesses, connect through Zoom (sometimes daily), and attend more online virtual events than ever before. Don’t stop now. Continue to authentically create those relationships to build long-lasting relationships, not just temporary “quarantined relationships.” Lead Up is making BIG PLANS to SHOW UP for YOU over the next year. We are hard at work behind the scenes preparing the next level of support we know you all need. There will be opportunities to find your purpose and tap into the power to bring out the passion needed to grow yourself and your business exponentially. We will continue connecting, influencing and leading you with the confidence you deserve. Be the badass leader you know you are, and gain the courage and confidence through the strong support of our group of women so you can live your best life. We are here to show you how to tap into your greatest power, YOU. You are the only you who has ever been and the only you who will ever be. Be you and be strong, because you are brilliant and the world needs you. All of the members of Lead Up for Women are here to offer you support and sisterhood to lead your best life.
Showing Up is about being present, BIG TIME, in everything you do, taking action and being seen everywhere, all the time, in every way.
Your journey starts today. What are you waiting for? Join us. With Gratitude,
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May-June 2020
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BUSINESS
Kiss Corporate Goodbye How two sisters left the 9-5 world and are now creating a movement for others to do the same
L
ike most people, sisters Shari Weller and Kimberly Mylls grew up in a household where education was important, especially if you wanted to find a great job and start building a career. They did just that. But not that far down the road, they discovered that the corporate world was not all it was cracked up to be. After climbing the corporate ladder, Shari and Kimberly realized the view from the top was not what they wanted. Playing by someone else's rules and not being in control of their own destiny led them to take an unexpected path. “We’re on a mission to create a movement and a community for women who want to escape the 9-5 and give them a pathway to have total freedom— time, money and personal freedom,” Shari says. “We truly believe there is a better way, and for us, it came in one of the least likely ways. Now we are more fulfilled than we ever were in the daily grind.”
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Kim says what happens to a lot of people, including her, is that they get comfortable with their income and benefits, and change is scary. “The truth is that most of us don’t take the time to even think about what we want. We get comfortable going through the motions and becoming that person on the hamster wheel. We make a living, but do not live life. It seems easier to stay in the same situation, regardless of whether it’s bad, because at least it’s the bad you know.” Taking a risk is never easy. Neither is taking a path that might get questioned
or criticized. The sisters agree that while the decision is not easy, it is worth it. While they were in different places when they started their journeys, each had a vision for making a difference— they just did not know how.
Shari’s Story: Mom guilt combined with being overworked and underpaid inspired her to take a surprising change of course For more than 15 years, Shari worked in Corporate America. Seven of those years were spent in sales and account management roles for one of the largest beer companies in the world. She enjoyed the job at the beginning. But after her first son was born, she wanted to be at home with him. Shari and her husband agreed that one parent would stay at home. “My job had more
May-June 2020
perks and didn’t involve travel like his did, so we decided I would go back to work,” she says. That proved harder than she imagined. “I was the only woman doing my job, I had the biggest accounts in the state of Arizona and I was being paid a fraction of what my male counterparts were making.” In addition, the job required a lot of entertaining and late evenings. “When I became a mother, I just wanted to be at home with my baby. I had no desire to stay out late entertaining a bunch of men. To put it mildly, the job wasn’t giving back to me as much as I was putting into it.” The tipping point came when she came down with double pneumonia. While she was in the hospital, people started interviewing for her job. “I had no idea what to do next, but I knew I wanted to control my work hours. I wanted to enjoy who I worked with and I wanted to do something where I could make an impact.” She also had mom guilt. When her first son was born, she felt like the job was making her miss out on things. By the time she was pregnant with her second child, Shari knew she had to find a way to match her income and be able to stay at home. “I wanted a flexible schedule, a chance to make a corporate income, and I wanted to love what I did and who I did it with. It wasn’t just a tall order; it seemed impossible.” After Shari was introduced to Network Marketing, she immediately found it to be a great business model. Even though she had a business degree, she had never heard of the company. “I started two network marketing companies before finding the third one, which I have been with for 15 years,” she says. By the time her second son was born, she had kissed the corporate world goodbye and never looked back. Today, her passion is working with other moms who, like her, do not want to go back to a full-time day job. “I not only want to be an example for my kids; I want to leave a legacy for them.” Shari lives by Robert Fulghum’s motto, “Don’t worry that your children aren’t listening to you, worry that they are watching you.”
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Kim’s Story: Single girl making a good living, but not living the life she imagined While Shari immediately fell in love with Network Marketing, Kim did not want anything to do with it. She was skeptical. She thought it was just about sales and home parties. She did not believe anyone could make a good living at it. But, Kim was at the end of her rope in her corporate job. She was tired of long hours and weekends filled with errands. She was unfulfilled. “In the beginning, I struggled to balance my fulltime job with building this other business. I struggled with what people would think of me leaving my corporate job for network marketing,” Kim says. Then she became a student of the industry and decided to take action. She started to see there was a system
“People start their businesses for supplemental income, replacement income or lifestyle income. What most soon come to realize is that building your business is about building assets and creating a legacy.” – Kimberly Mylls
in place, a community for support, and tools and resources. “I saw the business model as a perfect way for entrepreneurial-minded people to build a business without the high investment and stress of starting a traditional business.”
Empowering others to ‘Kiss Corporate Goodbye’ Today, the savvy Mylls sisters are sharing their passion for Network Marketing, entrepreneurship and living life on their terms with their podcast, Kiss Corporate Goodbye. They started it because they believe Network Marketing is one of the most misunderstood industries. They also believe it is one of the best pathways for transitioning out of the corporate world. “Most people don’t realize the skills you learn in network marketing,” Shari says. "Couple that with the personal growth and leadership skills you receive, and it gives you a foundation to succeed in anything. It is a great training ground for any business and gives you a safe space to learn, grow and dream again.” Now more than ever, Kim says it is important to have some type of online business and multiple stream of income. Plus, there is nothing like having a community of support to build your business alongside your current job. “People start their businesses for supplemental income, replacement income or lifestyle income,” she says. “What most soon come to realize is that building your business is about building assets and creating a legacy.” Imagine a life where you can be successful and add significance to others.
Get connected to Kiss Corporate Goodbye Website: kisscorporategoodbye.com Private Facebook Group: The Kiss Corporate Goodbye FB Group Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/1788210548138980 Instagram: www.instagram.com/kisscorporategoodbye YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCBmlIYYcfLJKIoXz74S-ajQ?view_as=subscriber LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/18733420/admin
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7
BUSINESS
So, tell me again — what role do you play? W
e are living in very interesting times. Trust me, I use the word “interesting” loosely. There are other adjectives that may sit better with you, and if so, insert it/them where applicable. I don’t mind at all.
One moment we were “kinda-sorta” getting in the groove of showing up for ourselves, following our dreams, listening to our intuition, silencing the inner and outer critics, while juggling and caring for our families. We were raising our kids, caring for our parents, planning date-nights while robotically repeating “self-care is essential, self-care is essential, self-care is essential.” And in the next minute, shit hits the fan— all of it.
Hyacinth Henderson
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Lead Up for Women
Here we are in the Year 2020 sitting in the midst of “stuff.” What in the world is going on? I have wrestled with the message I wanted to share in this article. I mean, technically, I am the “Money Lady”—a Stockbroker, Investment Adviser, Insurance Broker and Financial Planner, all rolled into one pretty little package—so I “should” be writing about, uh, money. But let us set the “should” aside for a moment.
In fact, most of us have been setting the “shoulds” aside for the past 60 to 90 days. COVID-19 came through and tossed out all the “shoulds” and “woulds” that we had planned for ourselves. Now that we agree (thank you, by the way) that it is okay to kick “should” to the curb, I would like to use this space to ask a very important question, “What role do you play?” Role – /rōl/ Noun – the function assumed or part played by a person or thing in a particular situation As I started pondering this question, I immediately thought about titles. Just as soon as I started thinking that, a little voice quickly nudged me and said, “Aht, aht, aht, Hyacinth, roles are different from titles.” You can have a title and not understand the role. So I paused and ate an avocado at my desk without a plate (sorry, Mom), while allowing more thoughts to pour in. Oh shoot, that little voice is right. Roles are different from titles. Think about the state of the world right now. There is no doubt things are shifting and that the shift is uncomfortable. Be reminded though, things become less uncomfortable when you let go. When you let go—in this case—of releasing the idea of how you thought things were going to go, the discomfort can begin to subside. Presently, many folks are largely hanging on to titles instead of focusing on their roles. When you are clear on the role you play in the world, you can begin to understand that titles mean absolutely nothing. Translation: You may have lost your job, been furloughed or chose to close your business, but that does not mean you are not valuable. You are. You are valuable and you bring value to the spaces you fill.
May-June 2020
Read this slowly: You still have a role to play in "The World." Now let’s figure out what that is. The easiest way to understanding of the difference between roles and titles is to review and assess some of the roles you currently play. I am going to assume that most of you who read this magazine are women. Think about some of the titles commonly held by women —daughter, mother, wife. Although these are common titles, each of us show up and play our roles differently. For example, I bear the title of daughter to my Dad and daughter to my Mom. But the roles I play in each of their lives is vastly different. My mother is disabled. She lives with me. I have been her caregiver for the past 13 years. At 59, she is relatively young. On the other hand, my role with my Dad is vastly different. It largely consists of me telling him to watch what he eats while discussing ways to reach more people with our business. Here is the thing: I did not accept and own my role as my mother’s caregiver until more than 11 years after she became disabled. I was stuck on my title as daughter, not my role as caregiver, and I held resentment. Sure, I was ushering her to doctors’ appointments and making sure she was fed, but I did not own my role until after years of running our lives with my head in the clouds. The moment I owned my role as caregiver, I began to show up for her and myself in a manner in which I never thought possible. Our relationship drastically changed. I will use myself as an example again. Sure, my professional titles are Stockbroker, Investment Adviser, Insurance Broker and Financial Planner, but my role is to help people gain understanding and help them feel empowered. I help people understand self and feel empowered to make prudent financial decisions, so they do not run out of money. When I understand the role behind the titles, focus becomes less about increasing The Firms AUM (fancy acronym for how much money we manage) and more about educating, enlightening and empowering people. It gives me the freedom to show up in unconventional and unimaginable ways. See the difference?
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You may have lost your job, been furloughed or chose to close your business, but that does not mean you are not valuable. You are. You are valuable and you bring value to the spaces you fill. It is your turn now. I have created a process for us to work through this together: 1. Make a list of all the titles you carry. I have already given you three possibilities. Others may include friend, leader, mentor, etc. I know many of you are “Chief Figure It Out Officers,” but for this exercise, I would like for you to breakdown some of the things you figure out and identify the associated title. I recommend writing one title per sheet of paper. 2. Write down your definition of the titles you identified. 3. Research the definition of the titles you listed and write down the definitions you discovered. 4. Compare and contrast your definition with the definitions found online. Jot down things or messages that resonate with you. 5. Each day (or week), select one title and ask yourself how you are showing up for the selected title and identify the role you actively play. Are you just carrying the title or are you really engaged in the role? Are there tweaks that can be made? Do you want to show up differently? Is there room for you to be more intentional in that role?
6. Repeat this process as often as you are led to. I personally like intentional journaling on one focus for seven days before moving on to the next one. I know we all process differently. A new title a day may work best for you. As you go through this exercise, you will come to rediscover a lot about yourself. I say “rediscover” because your inner-being already knows this stuff—you may have just forgotten about it. Humans have a funny way of doing that. As you rediscover things about yourself, you will start to own that you are more than a title. You are here for a purpose. You have a role to play. And although all types of things are happening around us, there is still room for you in the world. The bonus work is for you to tap-in to ways to play your role on a larger scale. Go on and venture outside of your comfort zone and play your roles in front of strangers (aka, friends you have not met yet). Doing the bonus work can potentially lead you to a new mission—and by mission, I mean a new business idea, a new job, or whatever else your heart desires.
I have a gift for you To see what it is, visit my website at www.HyacinthHenderson.com. I would love to hear from you. If you want to stay in touch, call me at 305-825-1444, or email me at HH@HyacinthHenderson.com. If you are a social media person, you can find me on these platforms: YouTube: www.Youtube.Com/HyacinthHenderson LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/hyacinth-henderson Facebook: www.facebook.com/HyacinthLikeTheFlower
Lead Up for Women
9
LIFESTYLE
I Am Enough How struggle becomes our strength
W
hat are the obstacles that stop us from living or doing our best? It is our limiting beliefs. Think of a limiting belief you are struggling with—one you find creeping into your mind at any different time. It may be something you held on to for years or one you are just now recognizing. Whatever the belief, acknowledge it in your mind. It is okay to feel stuck, but it is never okay to stay stuck. One of the limiting beliefs that I struggled with for so many years was that I was not enough. For years, it caused me to live a life without meaning and purpose. I have been a mental health therapist for the past 15 years. In 2012, at the age of 33, I decided to join the service. I earned the commission as a Captain in the United States Air Force. I moved from Michigan to California to begin the next chapter of my new and exciting life. Then the “one,” the man of my dreams appeared. Within 11 months, we were married. I was finally living my dream life. That was enough. At least that is what I thought. Within six months, thing began to change. The person who once seemed
10 Lead Up for Women
to adore me, now was annoyed by me. Mr. N, as I like to call him, became increasingly unhappy and angry. He started criticizing me, and telling me I was crazy, delusional and untrustworthy. He began lying, making me feel anxious and treating me not as his wife, but as his enemy. The insults and threats shattered my self-esteem. But it was not long before Mr. N’s lies surfaced. I discovered he had been having an affair for 14 months of our two-and-a-half-year marriage. Despite all of the atrocious things he did, he treated me like “the enemy.” Mr. N refused to be accountable, was not genuinely remorseful, and despite being so caring and concerned for my well-being in the past, treated me as if I did not exist.
The man who used to “adore me like no other,” made me believe I was “the crazy one.” I was blamed for all of our relationship’s problems—no matter how much I tried to explain, prove, fix things or justify myself. I cannot tell you how many times he told me how wrong I was, how bad I was, and how everything was my fault. He had everyone believe I was the reason our relationship was not working. He convinced our friends and family that I was a liar and a horrible person, and that he was the abused one. The perpetual insults, micro-managing, distrust, put downs and threats shattered my self-esteem and confidence. Mr. N filed for divorce in 2014 and pulled the papers three different times. He kicked me out of our home on two different occasions, but would always ask me to come back. I wanted to make the marriage work despite all the craziness and chaos, but he eventually followed through with our divorce, which became final in 2016. I walked away with nothing but my wedding ring, a ton of debt and a shattered heart. Mr. N stayed in my life for the next two years. He would tell me he missed me, saying the divorce was the wrong decision. We even went out on a few dates. I believed everything he said, and allowed him to come in and out of my life and control me. I was still fully committed to him even after he divorced me. Despite the horrific abuse I dealt with, I stubbornly clung to the dream. I kept praying, fighting for, and clawing away to get him to return to the man I thought I had married. Like a drug addict, I kept seeing him and hid it, even after we were divorced. I lied to the people in my life I loved. I would stay away, then return over and over again—always praying things would be different this time.
May-June 2020
I felt damaged and empty, and when I tapped into my inner being, the only message I received was: › “You’re worthless; you’re not wanted.” › And the worst one: “You are not good enough.” Even though I had been a mental therapist for over a decade, I did not realize the damage being done. In fact, the truth was I was involved in a narcissistic, abusive marriage. In October 2018, I lost my six-figure income and, four months later, in February 2018, I learned I was the other woman this time. Mr. N had moved another woman into our house a month before our divorce was final and had been living there for the past two years. I did not even know she existed. That was enough. After that realization, I was crushed. I felt shameful, hopeless and powerless. So there I was holding my shattered heart and life in my hands. I had hit my rock bottom. There was nothing else to do but start over. I finally walked away from Mr. N for the last time on Feb. 15, 2018. That was when the true journey of regaining my strength from this struggle began. I went into therapy and did the difficult trauma work. I learned that my closure had nothing to do with him, rather it had everything to do with me. I learned how to forgive myself. I no longer judge or blame myself. The “old” me brought me to my knees and taught me how to release my internal blocks. It allowed me to begin living as the woman I knew I could be. During my healing process, I wrote on a notecard why enough was enough. I began repeating this day after day. Every time I thought, “I’m not good enough,” out came the card. I asked you earlier to think of a limiting belief that you are struggling with. Over the next 24 hours, write about the feelings that come up when you think about the limiting belief you wrote down. Over the next week, or however long it takes, make a list of questions that challenge that belief. Ask yourself: › Why do I believe that? › Is this catastrophizing thinking?
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› Who is telling me this? (99.9% of the time the source is you and you are never reliable when it comes to limiting self-beliefs) Next, write out a positive affirmation about yourself and place it somewhere you will see it every day. When you hear yourself thinking or saying negative things, replace the thoughts by repeating a positive affirmation (you can also grab my top 100 positive affirmations at meganfenyoe.com/affirmations).
During my healing process, I wrote on a notecard why enough was enough. I began repeating this day after day. Every time I thought, “I’m not good enough,” out came the card. I cannot imagine where I would be today if I let all my struggles, negative thoughts, limiting beliefs and negative reactions take me out. I would probably still be in a fetal position on the floor crying. I have had to continuously “retrain” my brain over the years especially when I found myself up against a battle.
It may sound like a cliché to have complete closure after what I went through. I lost everything—the love of my life, my job, my home and I had to file for bankruptcy. But these tragedies gave me a specific strength. They gave me the power to take the next step in my life. Now don’t get me wrong. I have still had struggles over the past two years. But the moment I allow myself to walk away from the abuse and say “yes” to me, everything changed. In August 2018, I published my first book, "You Are Enough 5 Steps To Move From Struggle To Strength" and I became a best-selling author. In February 2019, one year after walking away from Mr. N, I launched the international I Am Enough Movement, which empowers, encourages and educates women to find and release the strength we hold within. In November 2019, the I Am Enough Movement became a 501c(3) Nonprofit Organization. All of this happened in the last two years—all because I said "yes" to me. You have to be 100% honest with yourself about the limiting self-beliefs keeping you stuck. Once you are able to identify these negative thoughts, you can boldly take the first step in changing those thoughts and reprogram new beliefs into your subconscious mind. By doing this, you give yourself the chance to rewrite your story and shift your understanding of what is possible. You will see more potential and take more action. You will build confidence, strength and courage to go after what you want and know you deserve. So, are you ready to start believing you are enough, and begin living a life full of passion and purpose? The time is now. If you have one takeaway from this article, I hope that it is you are not where you want to be in your personal or professional life—there is a solution. That solution is you. I encourage you to be bold every single day. Be brave. Be unapologetically you, because you are enough.
To order your free “I AM ENOUGH” visual coping cards, visit www.iamenoughmovement.info
Lead Up for Women
11
LIFESTYLE
How near death can change your future and those you serve
By Stephanie Garcia
I
am often asked what made me get into massage therapy. I did not grow up knowing this would be the path I would follow. I did not know anyone in the field. I had not even had a massage before I decided to make it my career.
I was born and raised in Southern California, the youngest of an eclectic bunch of six kids. My parents both worked hard and still managed to put a home cooked meal on the table for all of us. We spent weekends at the beach and on our sailboat. I was a good student and very social. I loved—still do—live music, along with the average weekend hangout with my best friends. I was also in Business Academy in my senior year. We developed a virtual business as a class. We were assigned to execute every detail besides a physical structure. We went to trade shows and trips to businesses similar to our virtual ones. Being that business was a Day Spa, we visited Glen Ivy Hot Springs. I immediately loved the feeling. It was raw, natural and revitalizing. One part of the spa had a “Massage Under the Oaks,” an outdoor massage space with several rooms that had oak doors and walls, but open ceilings to the oak trees above. I felt a real connection. Too bad I was not listening to the little voice in my head. I applied to colleges, assuming that was the right next step. Some of the ones I applied to where in hopes of going with my best friend. I was not sure what I was going to do when I grew up, but going with the motions, I planned to attend Cal State University for a music Business major. I was the last to leave the nest. My parents planned to retire and move out to Washington State after I graduated. I was welcome to join the move, but the thought of leaving California, leaving my best friends, was absurd to me. Sometimes the universe needs to force you in the right direction. In 2010, about two weeks until graduation, I was
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Lead Up for Women
Stephanie Garcia
forced to listen. I was passing classes, hanging out with my best friends and maybe partying more than I should. I was focused on everything but my body. I remember having back pain and thinking nothing of it. The pain felt more like the flu. I stayed home from school for a few days until my parents made me go to an urgent care. Upon walking into the building, I went into convulsions. The physicians said they could not help me and that I needed to go to the ER. I was taken by ambulance, which I have no recollection of. The hospital was maybe a mile from the urgent care. I woke up some time later. I do not know exactly. Time was all mixed up. I was in the hospital for seven days, most of which I spent out of my body. Physicians determined I probably had a UTI that I did not listen to which spread to my kidneys. I also had a kidney infection that spread to my blood, causing me to go septic. My core was temperature was 109 degrees and my body was dying trying to fight the infection. The doctors prepared my parents for brain damage— if I survived the Sepsis. I recall everything like it was yesterday, especially the being out if my body part. It was like I was a fly on the wall watching the doctors and nurses pack my Gurnee with ice and asking me questions trying to solve the problem. My eyes were open, but I was not there. A lot more happened to me while I was in that in-between place, out of my body. Most of those experiences I will keep to myself or save for another story. The most important part was that I met the healer within me. I was changed. Near-death experiences have a way of doing that to you. I survived and I am just fine. I lost a lot of memories from that time. All of my siblings dropped everything to come to the hospital during that week. I do not remember seeing them at all, but I felt them there, which helped pull me out of it.
May-June 2020
I was raised to be independent, hardworking, and to have class while doing it – I hold those values close. I absolutely love what I do and where I am going!
Meanwhile, I missed the graduation that I worked so hard for. My friends went on to graduation night and into summer having fun while I was home for two weeks with a PICC line for my antibiotics. I had a lot of time to think. A lot of time to listen. I felt called to do something better. Life threw me down so I could I learn to listen to my body. I needed to help others listen, too. I decided I was going to go into massage therapy. I decided to leave California and move to Washington. There just so happened that there was an amazing school, Port Townsend School of Massage, nearby. That school will always have a special place in my heart. I hope to go back to teach sometime. I learned that massage therapy is only the start. Our bodies are such intricate designs of which massage is a way to facilitate our network of healing.
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I needed a team of passionate health and body workers to work together. That is why I decided that I would own a Wellness Collective one day. In 2012, I moved to Arizona to work for Elements Massage for several years, while also doing in-home massages for a few clients on my own. I slowly grew my business without much conscious effort. I had the clientele, but no brand or network yet. In August 2016, I began to branch out of Elements. I was fully on my own by March 2017. Since then, I have continued to expand in network, space and clientele. Word of mouth and networking with like-minded professionals have been a key source of marketing. I am part of an amazing team—GFIT Solutions—that is only just beginning to build the Three Point Collective brand. Things continue to fall together naturally.
Perhaps my true passion and fascination for the human body, as well as listening to my intuition, is what makes me successful. We all are born with strong intuition, but we grow up and tend to stop listening. That is the goal of my work, to help people listen to their bodies. And If I have done that. I am successful. I was raised to be an independent and hard-working, while having class while doing it. I hold those values close. I absolutely love what I do and where I am going. I also am a natural homemaker at heart. I am busy, but I would be bored otherwise. I love to cook and make a cozy home for me, my dogs and supportive man. His 4 year old not only keeps my schedule busy, but makes things fun. Life and our bodies are in a constant need of balance. So I take a deep breath, work hard and enjoy the moment. Stay classy ladies.
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LEADERSHIP
Reinventing yourself Who will you be post COVID-19? By Kimberlee Davis
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here is no shortage of lessons to be learned from COVID-19. In addition to the economic and health adjustments, we are all scrambling to make a deluge of new challenges that have yet to be considered still looms around the corner. As we navigate our way through these rough waters of financial hardships, stress and anxiety, let’s make sure to maintain our sense of control and handle the problems that we are empowered to solve. The best way to do this is by reevaluating our finances, focusing on our long-term goals, and reflecting inward on our own identity. From a corporate securities lawyer and an investment banker, to an entrepreneur and stay-at-home mom, I have reinvented myself many times over. Some changes were for the better, others not so much. I have found that the key to making solid transitions is to start them in a quiet place like the unique setting of the quarantine. With mouths to feed, bills to pay and immune systems to protect, taking stock on the bigger picture might seem like a low priority at the moment, but it really shouldn’t be. Ultimately, who we choose to be—either in business, in wealth, in family or just plain spiritually—will determine our paths forward out of this crisis. Amid the chaos and loss of control, our own sense of self is one of the few things we can control. Plus, sheltering in place gives us a unique opportunity to do some personal observation, self-reflection, introspection and evaluation because we are not losing time in the dash to in-person meetings and child soccer practices. The first question that a lot of us get stuck on is: Where do we start? Having gone through several personal and
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professional reinventions myself, I have found great value in beginning with a deep exploration into my hierarchy of values. This consists of the following important questions: › What is important to my emotional development as a person? › What is important to my economic goals? › What is important to my interpersonal relations and social/ethical perspective? All three are equally important and must be looked at holistically and practically. We can stand back and reflect on our lives as they were pre-coronavirus, and examine if we were happy and if our finances survived. In our society, we
seem to be perpetually busy. For many of us, this outbreak has been a hard stop, forcing us to spend time with our loved ones, get comfortable being alone and taking a moment to think about the things that really matter. Using this time to think about how your financial situation held up, ask yourself what areas can be improved upon. Did you have enough in your savings to cover a couple months of bills if you were to get furloughed from your job? Did you notice how much less money you were spending on frivolous things like your morning coffee? Taking this time to reflect and thoroughly comb through your spending habits and fiscal well-being will help you plan for the future, and give you the knowledge and tools you need to make better choices after this is all over. Having more idle time also allows us to enjoy ordinary activities such as reading, yoga, exercise, painting, listening to music, cooking and reconnecting with our interests. Instead of succumbing to the pressure and uncertainty, embrace the stillness and relearn how to be thoughtful. Just because the pandemic is tragic—and, of course, it certainly is— does not mean it is not also a great chance to spend more time together, talk without rushing and determine how we can continue this in a post-coronavirus environment. There may be a wonderful recalibration to consider, which never would have been possible during the rat race of the so-called “normal” life we used to know. We should all examine the strengths of our relationships and family to gauge how we are surviving as a wife, mother, friend and/or businesswoman. In this state of quiet, what do we value and how do we prioritize it among all the other noise?
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While contemplating that answer, it is important not to undervalue your career goals. Often, women will assume financial freedom and professional ambition are lower priorities because of societal pressures. But we are free to choose other values as higher priorities that does not mean that we have to. To adjust your career path, take this opportunity to learn new skills and pursue interests that have been on the back burner. The internet is full of how-to videos and video-networking/coaching platforms that are just a click or swipe away. Use it as a tool for reinvention – not just a vehicle for killing time as we wait for the economy to reopen. Set specific and achievable financial goals taking one step at a time so as not to get overwhelmed and give up on your strategy in frustration. Personally, I am rethinking my daily schedule from pre-coronavirus times. I have been taking a four- to five-mile
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walk at least four times a week, something I am committed to continuing after we resume our new-normal lives. I am going to make exercise a non-negotiable priority. It clears my mind and gives me a positive attitude. It is important you have good nutrition, get regular sleep, have regular physical exercise, have some down time, nurture your spirit and have some fun with the positive people in your life. Intentional self-care will reap many benefits.
It will increase your energy and sharpen your financial focus. We should all look at our lives as a whole and reflect on what changes we can make to provide for a better tomorrow. In all our busy-ness, it is too easy to lose track of what is really important. The excuse, “I don’t have time,” is no longer an option. For me it is health, free time to pursue my interests and family. What is important to you?
Kimberlee Davis is host of The Fiscal Feminist, a podcast and platform about women and their relationship with money and finances. Her mission is to help women of all ages and wealth levels embrace their responsibility to themselves, and to achieve solid financial footing in both calm and turbulent times. Kimberlee Davis has more than 25 years of finance, legal and corporate experience. Her career has included being a corporate securities lawyer, investment banker and CFO. Currently, she is managing director and partner at The Bahnsen Group, a private wealth management firm.
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Tessa Horovitz, Co-founder, AMETTI
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May-June 2020
The future of travel is female
Meet two founders changing the world of business travel for women
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eing safe and healthy, both mentally and physically, is something everyone strives for today. That is why Jessie Minikes and Tessa Horovitz started Ametti—a luxury travel brand geared toward today’s executive fashion-forward women. The Los Angeles-based company not only offers a line of luxury travel accessories (luggage, small leather goods to packing essentials), but also serves as a travel community for likeminded peers. Minikes and Horovitz like to think of it as a one-stop shop for all things travel for the modern female executive and entrepreneur. Lead Up sat down with them to get their thoughts on how the brand is faring in today’s changing landscape.
Give us a snapshot of your brand? Ametti is the first direct-to-community fashion lifestyle brand that brings curated content, a valuable relationship community, and travel accessories to today’s businesswomen. It is a one-stop-shop for their work, travel, and at home needs.
We believe that curating and creating a better lifestyle for women while traveling for work, being on-the-go, or working from home should be effortless and essential. We are the first brand to think about women business travelers.
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We are dedicated to the women of the world who travel for work, and aspire to learn and meet others while on the go. She is knowledgeable, yet wants to learn more every day. She is connected, yet wants to make more valuable connections with women like her. She is at a senior level aspiring to become a C-level, or already a C-level or founder wanting to inspire and meet other women they can inspire and guide. She is busy and needs a friend like Ametti to make her life easier every day.
Why do you do what you do?
Tell us what makes Ametti so unique?
We uniquely put together the best for our customers by offering: › Essential travel accessories to facilitate their travel life. › Durable quality and uniquely designed products. › Content to help women travel better. › Events and gatherings to escape and learn from other women. › Curators and experts to ensure all content is highly valuable. › Actionable advice and tips as well as true resources.
What type of women are you targeting?
Jessie Minikes, Co-founder, AMETTI
› A friend to turn to when they need something while on the go, ensuring that their time matters, and everything is available and easy to access in a couple of minutes. › Valuable real connections.
Tessa: Jessie and I were both heavy work travelers before starting Ametti. We deeply felt there was a need for a brand to finally help women travel better and come together. For the past seven years, I have been experiencing the life impact of regularly traveling for business as a woman. I wished for better products and a place to learn how to travel better. This idea came from hearing other women talk about struggles, and my own experiences trying to find balance, practicality in fashion and community while traveling. I felt very unbalanced, lonely, sometimes unsafe, with nobody to turn to, and no place to get advice and support to make travel life a little easier. That is how Ametti was born—truly believing there are better ways for women to travel for business. We want to support them before, during and after their journey. We are the first to care about women who travel for work.
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What hurdles have you overcome being a woman in business?
Tessa: I became a board member and C-level when I was 28. Back then, I sat at the table with 45 year old men and older. They were dressed in suits, and actively felt they had to become my mentors and leaders. At the time, I felt the weight of being a woman—being young every single day. I found the psychological exercise to train myself to move forward without offending anyone was a real challenge. It was a lot of pressure. I not only needed to be the best, but I also had to be nice and humble. I had to be decisive, but not too much, in case someone else felt they needed to decide over me. Raising funds and getting money is still mostly controlled by men. It is very hard for women to get in business. As a co-founder of a startup, I can say that getting investments has been tough, even though the world has seen improvements with female founders. We still have a long way to go.
with them virtually, separately, every Saturday to work on their fashion portfolio. There is something so rewarding about mentoring young designers at the peak of their careers. Tessa: For me, it is ethics to drive sustainability. At Ametti, we produce durable products with some local suppliers in partnership with sustainable farming. It was not an easy task. Achieving prices like ours takes a lot of work and research. We are always weary about our product’s destiny, so we are working to launch a membership solution that will allow people to return their old bag for a new one. This enables us to give our products a second or even third life. We also try to hire 100% women, and coach and mentor them. Our goal is to give them opportunities within Ametti and develop them as leaders. I created a small leadership class that provides tips and advice on how to empower your team to become leaders.
Jessie: Right now, my biggest hurdle is incorporating work with raising of my threemonth-old baby girl. It is a daily challenge and learning process to fit work in while I pivot myself around her schedule.
How do you give back?
Jessie: Right now, I am mentoring two different girls in fashion college. I meet
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What do you see as some of your biggest opportunities moving ahead? We still have a lot of room to grow, but we believe there are two big opportunities ahead. We have launched Ametti Society—a one-stop shop community catering to a highly curated lifestyle and trustworthy sources for business women.
Since the beginning, we knew that to truly help women during their work travels, being on the go or just working from home, we had to push further. We always aim to offer a real solution. Ametti Society is the curated solution to help women travel better. To give you a hint, one of the perks is Ametti dinners—the opportunity to meet other women in an intimate setting. For now it is online, but soon it will be available in NYC and LA. The other opportunity is how travel is going to change post COVID-19. The trends and the way women travel tomorrow are going to be reshaped. Tomorrow, a one-day trip to Chicago is going to seem like an unnecessary risk for two meetings. Teams will still need to work and meet in person, and business travel should take a turn for longer trips— one to two weeks. Women will need us more than ever to help settle a balanced life for themselves after being away from home so long. We are preparing this for them so they have a reliable source that is ready to tell them how they can create a great lifestyle for themselves while traveling for business.
How are you staying connected with other women in business? At Ametti, we actively make efforts to connect and network, right now mostly online. We look for women’s groups and companies founded by women. We follow women opinion leaders. That was one of the main reasons for our weekly guest meet-up with the team. Tessa or the team invites someone to chat with us informally about anything they want. It helps open discussions and synergies. We also have partnerships, where we try to create long-term relationships with other female-lead businesses. Women are stronger together and we actively try to make this happen.
What mentors, sponsors, coaches have played an important role in your success?
Tessa: For me, it was my parents. I had the chance to have incredible mentors at home. My mother has always been such an inspiration. She was full of creativity and energy, and really knew how to make a room listen to her. She used to be an interior designer, where she worked with
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95% men on building sites. She knew how to lead and direct the situation. Without my father, I would not be where I am today. He was a great service strategy consultant, leadership expert, and entrepreneur of talent and heart. He leads with his brain and his heart and, hopefully I am successfully succeeding. I think of him every day when I see challenges ahead or great things happening in Ametti. I recently came across someone I have a true connection with, Karen Sugar. She is the founder of the WGE fund. I believe she is already playing a big role in who I will become tomorrow. Jessie: I would say there are two people who really impacted my success. The first was my father. We have had different moments in our relationship. He has by far not only been my greatest teacher, but has also one of my biggest fans. Second, I would have to say my old boss at Ralph Lauren. He helped push all of my boundaries while being a designer.
How do you stay current with today’s trends?
Jessie: One of the most relaxing moments of the day is watching fashion shows. It not only helps me relax, but also helps me identify and spot trends to come. Tessa: Mostly reading a lot of the news and understanding the challenges people are facing. Through empathy, if you are capable of truly putting yourself in the shoes of your customers, you can understand what trends are going to change their world (and yours at the same time). Finally, actively listening to feedback and your team is crucial. I am a sponge. I thrive on other people’s perspectives and analysis. All the great new ideas will come from team meetings and brainstorming.
women want to take everywhere. We want to ensure that every aspect of it is elevated and high quality to fit what our customers need and grow organically through referrals.
What is the biggest item on your to-do list right now?
Tessa: Ensuring that the vision we built with the team has a structure to grow with the support it needs and the resources necessary to its longevity. In short—vision, people and funds. Jessie: Right now, the biggest item on my to-do list is taking the Ametti product range and expanding the offering into Asia.
What is the most rewarding part of your career?
Jessie: Designing is by far the most rewarding. Without it, I am lost. Tessa: Definitely having the courage to dive in and create Ametti. I think the biggest challenge of entrepreneurship is turning adversities into opportunities, and this happens every day. Mentoring and growing a team of incredible women who are behind Ametti and help us get this dream to become real. Helping women travelers feel better, something I hope will make a difference in their careers and lives to become even better leaders.
Describe a typical day.
Jessie: 7 a.m.: Wake up, feed the baby. 8 a.m.: Play with the baby 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m.: Baby takes a nap. Then I go into lightning speed, opening and answering emails. 10:30 a.m.: Feed the baby 11 a.m.: The baby plays in her jungle gym and I get on the computer to research whatever I am working on. Noon-2:30 p.m.: My baby takes a two-hour nap. This is by far the most productive part of my day. It is when and where I turn into a robot. Here, I typically take my work phone calls. If the weather is nice, I pop the baby in her stroller and take phone calls outside. 2:30 p.m.-4 p.m.: She is awake and ready to play, so my teacher hat is on. We practice whatever milestone a threemonth-old baby must focus on. 4 p.m.-5:30 p.m.: The baby sleeps and I take more meetings or phone calls. 5:30 p.m.-6 p.m.: My partner typically takes the baby around this time, allowing me to wrap up any loose ends or plan tomorrow’s to-do list. 7 p.m.: Bath time. 8 p.m.: My baby goes to “sleep.” 9 p.m.: Dinner and computer research while Netflix streams in the background. Tessa: I spend most of my days trying to inspire the team. We have a lot of cross-functional meetings where everyone
What is your growth plan? We aim to become the destination, the reference and the best friend for women business travelers who want to curate a better lifestyle for themselves. This starts with perfectly curated content and guides, as well as products with durable quality and unique design. For now, we are focusing on growing the full Ametti experience so that we can become that best-friend business
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learns from each other. At the stage we are in right now, it is about getting everyone on board and making sure they learn from one another. I instill a lot of moments of communication and sharing. I also believe that having clear goals and objectives are important. When you are a startup, the important thing is to be able to prioritize. There is so much to do, but not all of it can be done in a day. Your team is running the marathon with you, and you need to preserve them, too. The other thing I do is help the team with whatever they need. I will fill in and support them. Every day, I push our incredible team to take the lead and grow.
Finally, I need to keep my energy high. I do this by meeting other people who can inspire me. When you are a CEO, you must listen to people a lot and get the best out of their experiences. I feel I learn so many new things from all the people around me. That helps create my vision.
What is your secret to success?
Jessie: My daughter and my partner. Without the support of my partner, I am not sure I would make it. And in regards to my daughter, from the moment she was born, I felt transformed. I have never felt more motivated, more productive, more honest with myself and more confident with who I am
One-on-One with... Tell us about your family?
Tessa: I was born in Paris, France to a very down-to-earth family. My parents had a very free approach to raising my siblings and me. We were free to live the lives we wanted— experiment and learn, and try anything we wanted. Both my parents were self-made people, which taught me the importance of perseverance. I had a great childhood, first in France, and then in Switzerland, where we moved when I was nine. We used to move every two years, so I do not necessarily feel like I belong somewhere in particular, just to the world, in general. I was taught the value of achieving things and working hard to get them at a young age. Entrepreneurship was so important to my family. They believed in taking risks for the things you believe in.
How do you prioritize your health, family and career?
Jessie: Right now, I prioritize everything according to my daughter’s needs and schedule. I know that I need “me” time in order to get through the next day, so I try to make sure everything is packed and organized into each day. Tessa: I define moments that are completely off. My phone stays away, I do not open my emails or answer calls so I can focus and be with my family. I also need alone time. I resource myself mentally in the morning. I try to exercise, get out in the sun, read for a bit or just think for 30 minutes. I am a better person when I am rejuvenated, and I can be there for my family and friends.
What motivates you every day?
Tessa: The trust that people put in me and their faith in
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as a person. She helps me wake up every morning and be proud to be a boss. Tessa: In our business, the way I measure success is through great customer feedback. Only customers in time will tell if we are on the right track or not. As for me personally, it is perseverance and resilience. That does not mean I do not have doubts or down moments, but it is the ability to get out of them and keep on going. I did this my whole career. It always showed me you need to be your biggest fan, and trust in yourself enough to listen and let others help you and guide you to achieve great things.
Tessa Horovitz and Jessie Minikes what we are doing. I also need a good exercise to energize myself in the morning if I want to leave my stress out the door. Jessie: My family.
How do you tap into the power of YOU that makes you unique? And how has that pushed you forward?
Jessie: My creativity. Since childhood, my creativity has always been my armor. It has always forced me to think outside of the box and make me stand out in my profession. Tessa: I am what you could call an empathic feminine leader. Allowing myself to feel the importance and responsibility of being such helps me channel my best qualities and unite people. I let people I work with know me and trust me, and feel they can share things with me.
Who inspires you?
Tessa: My team—the young entrepreneurs of today. My fiancé is one of the most intelligent people I have ever met, someone who has dedicated his life to finding the secrets of the universe. Yes, you guessed it, he is in astrophysics. Jessie: Right now I am obsessed with the Altschool.
What inspires you? Jessie: My daughter.
Tessa: The world changing around us. People taking risk and have courage to stand for real change.
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What is the best thing a client ever said to you?
Cooking is the most relaxing activity for me, I never follow a recipe I create from an idea and love taking risks.
What are your strongest traits as a leader? What traits of other leaders inspire you?
How are you mentoring/sponsoring others?
Tessa: “Without what you are doing, my life would be much harder.”
Jessie: I love to hire experts. I feel the best way to lead is to let people do what they are best at. I have always loved the idea that I could ask a question to someone on my team and know that their answer was not only going to help me shift my thinking, but their experience was going to compensate for a part of the puzzle that was not meant for me to answer. Elie Tahari, my first boss, once said to me, “You can never lead if you’re not willing to learn.” Tessa: I am a good listener. I want to know what my team and customers think, how they are feeling and what are their biggest challenges. My strength is putting everyone around the table and creating something together that we all believe in with vision and strategy. I believe in emotional leading—leading with the heart. Women have it inside of them, and I love seeing a woman channeling that to grow and lead.
What book are you reading now?
Tessa: When I read, I want to travel into another world and another time. I love historical novels that teach you about the culture of a particular time and other civilizations. I am always reading several books at once. Right now on my side table I have: “The Falcon of Siam” by Axel Aylwen, “Sapiens” by Yuval Noah Harari, and “Little Fires Everywhere” by Celeste Ng. We have a book club with our team so I am reading it for the second time.
What are your favorite hobbies?
Jessie: Before the birth of my daughter. I started to build a love with European antique furniture. I went almost every weekend just to look and rdo some esearch. It became a great way to disconnect and learn at the same time. Tessa: Oh, have so many! I love drawing and painting. Having a background in visual art back when I did my IB I still love taking my pencils and drawing fashion illustrations or other things.
Tessa: With our team at Ametti. I am all about being an available leader. Showing them I am their biggest supporter and that I care to help when they need it. I always try to take time to have one-on-one meetings with each of our management team to help them grow. To the outside world of Ametti, I offer women two weeks or more of shadowing, where they can discover what we do and how I lead as well. These are one-to-one moments where they can ask any questions they would like to discuss further with me. Finally at Ametti, a project that is very dear to my heart, is a partnership we are doing with Karen Sugar and the WGE fund. It is a charity that helps women in Uganda create their own company through micro-lending and education. Jessie: The mentoring I do with the girls in fashion college.
How do you like to spend your down time? Jessie: With a glass of wine.
Tessa: Traveling more than anything. It is about getting on a plane to discover a new country, culture, hidden gems that you have to experience in person to understand. I am so passionate about travel. I am a little travel guide to most of my friends and family.
What was the best advice you ever received?
Tessa: All of your failures will ultimately become your success, if you can understand them and learn from them. Jessie: Follow your intuition.
What does “Lead Up” mean to you?
Jessie: Lead Up means opportunity—the opportunity to share and empower women through the stories of others. Tessa: An event point in your life, when you decide to lead by example and grow yourself by growing others.
Let’s start to travel better together! › › › ›
You can find Ametti's products and society on www.ametti.us Follow @ametti.official on social media to know all their latest news. A secret offer special for Lead up readers: 20% off your order use code at check out: LEADUPXAMETTI Plus with every purchase get our safety kit to stay safe on your journey
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Lead Up for Women
21
LEADERSHIP
Be a price leader C
OVID-19 has affected people like nothing we have ever experienced in our lifetime. For most people, it will be one of the most significant events in their business history. As leaders, business owners and managers, it has impacted our lives and changed them forever. While some businesses are struggling, other are thriving. People are trying new strategies and winning new clients. Others are trying to decide whether to keep their business going or close-up shop. These are heart-wrenching decisions. There is no time like the present to review your financial soundness and figure out your next steps. One of the most impactful things your business can do is not only to pivot and try new things, but price your services and products correctly. Why now? Because if your price is not right, your business will not make a profit. If you do not make a profit, you will not have positive cash flow. If you do not have cash in the bank, you will have a tough time recovering from this crisis or any other. This will not be the first or last time we face economic challenges as a nation. Are you ready to meet the next challenge? What lessons have you learned? Did you
have enough money set aside? Did you have a good working relationship with your banker? Could you produce monthly financial statements? Did your income tax returns show a profit? Our businesses produce cash and profits based on the price we set for our products and services. If they are too low, we will never produce the cash and profits. Without the right amount of cash and profits, we will not have a sustainable business. We will not be able to bring value to our clients, because we will not be able to afford to do anything but produce the next sale. Setting a price for your products is not just about cost and profit. It is your mindset about price, value and money. It is your mindset about your value—the value of your employees, the value you bring to your clients. Typically, when businesses start, they price themselves too low because
By Debi Corrie
they are afraid to ask for the price they deserve. This is rooted in the things we were taught growing up. Many of us were taught that money and the rich are unscrupulous. That simply is not true. When you make money, you can help more people in your community, church or the world if you choose. You can become a leader. It is okay to make money and a profit. It is okay to support your causes, employees and draw a salary from your business. It is okay to be successful. Be a price leader. So how do you determine if your price is correct? First, as a business owner, you must know your business’ break-even point. That is where the profit for your business is zero. It tells you how much product or services you need to sell to cover your annual business costs. Annual business costs include the costs to make your product or services, wages and other monthly business costs, such as rent and utilities. The break-even point can quickly point out if the business must cover high fixed costs or product costs to make a profit. Every sale after the break-even point contributes to the profitability of the business. Once you know your break-even point, you can take that information and determine price. Does the amount of sales you need to make a profit make sense, based on what your business has sold in the past? Will the amount of sales you need make a profit for the business? Do the business sales goals make sense? If not, it may be time to have a strategic price increase. Let’s cover some concerns that most business owners have when they initiate a price increase.
No. 1 — I will lose customers This typically only occurs when you have a major price adjustment to cover all the
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Lead Up for Women
May-June 2020
years you did not initiate a price increase. A customer receiving a 3% to 4% price increase a year is less likely to leave if you are delivering value. When a major price increase is necessary, say 15% to 20%, your customers may shop elsewhere.
No. 2 — My competition is not raising their price Talk to your customers about why the price increase is being initiated. Explain where the money is going. Maybe you are paying 20% more for our product because of tariffs. One of your major suppliers initiated a 5% increase. You are helping your customers with your account 20% more than your other customers. Take the time to call and explain that you value their business and explain the increase.
No. 3 — My business has always run on low price It is time to get out of the low price game. What do you offer that no one else does? Do you cut product to order? Do you sell in unusual quantities? Do you take returns with no questions asked? These are all valuable services. Small businesses are profitable when they do not try to compete with big box stores. Sell your value not your price. For companies that have multiple SKUs, big box customers or high selling products, you should develop a pricing strategy. Look at your high-selling, high-profit margin products and initiate a price increase. Customers are less likely to complain. They want and need the product. We have seen several businesses increase their prices during this pandemic. Meat prices have risen due to plant closures and restaurants are charging surcharges for COVID-19. Now is a great time to get your price right. You may also want to consider lowering the price on low selling items to move the inventory and make room for more profitable items. Look at your sales and margins to determine what items should be increased. Do not let fear keep you from doing the things that will make your business profitable. Imagine what a well thought out price strategy could do for your business. What could you do with the money from your business to make the world a better place?
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Here are some other things I would recommend for a successful business: › Get a bookkeeper. Your bookkeeper will help you produce monthly financial statements. Make sure you review your results every month. Sticking your head in the sand will not help you, your business or your employees. Know what is going on in your business financially and make corrections. › Start working with a local banker that likes your type of business. Not all bankers are created equal. Banks like different types of businesses and loans. Just because you received a rejection from one bank does not mean you will not be approved by another one. The bank may simply not like to finance your type of business. Find a banker that likes your business model. Bankers are like doctors. Find one that believes in you and will support your business.
› Start showing a profit on your tax returns and get a CPA to prepare your taxes. A good CPA will help you with a tax strategy and help you save taxes. For many sole entrepreneurs, their tax return is the only document used by banks for determining credit worthiness for loans. A tax return without profit will not be financed by a bank. › Stop beating yourself up. Learn your lessons and move on. We are all only human. We learn best when we fail. Dust yourself off and Lead Up.
Want to learn more about setting prices and how they influence your cash, visit my website at www.debicorriecfo.com.
Lead Up for Women
23
LEADERSHIP
How to make peace with energy vampires T he problem with the majority of energy vampires (EVs) is that they do not know they are sucking your energy. As an empath and counselor who facilitates personal development experiences and lives in a retreat home in Sedona, Arizona, people of all ages have been coming in and out of my office, and now my home, since 2005. I can tell you firsthand that EVs are everywhere and can be just about anyone—your best friend, a co-worker, your partner, even you. While most people cringe at the label “energy vampire,” the term is helpful to understand what might be happening at deeper levels within our psyches. An “energy vampire” is simply someone who is motivated by his or her own unconscious or semi-conscious need for attention. This need creates an imbalance in a relationship because the EV
24 Lead Up for Women
has limited awareness or genuine interest in the authentic needs of the other person. If you have a compassionate presence, you may be ideal company for EVs who depend on the kindness of another to feel “seen.” How can you tell if you or a friend, partner or co-worker is an energy vampire?
By Laura Marcos
For starters, EVs struggle to be alone. Even the thought of making a decision on their own might give them anxiety. They do not enjoy independent activities because they have learned they can sustain their energy from their external environment, thus subconsciously avoid looking more deeply within themselves. EVs can wear their sense of “victimhood” like a boy or girl scout
May-June 2020
badge. They may propagate negative beliefs like, “the world is evil,” or “life will never work out for me,” and expect you to join them in their disempowering beliefs. Kindness can be employed by EVs to manipulate your time and attention. They may make a display to show you how much they care for you, how great they think you are, and how much they do for you to manipulate you into being the “kind of friend” they desire in return. Another EV signature is emotional drama that leaves you feeling exhausted and overwhelmed. The biggest challenge in listening to their drama is the underlying feeling that they do not really want a solution. They are not genuinely interested in your thoughts. They just want to express as many of their emotions as they can while they have an audience. EVs also may struggle sharing the spotlight or feeling genuinely happy for another person. In conversations, they can be quick to interrupt and share a story about something related to what you were saying. Often, they are not truly listening to what you have to share—simply waiting for an opportunity to speak. Some EVs may act like bullies with guilt and shame daggers embedded into their comments. They may exhibit the need to one-up, criticize or minimize your choices and suggestions. What connects all EVs is the underlying cause—insecurity. The flavor of this brand of insecurity is the facade of authenticity. The facade is so firmly established that EVs may not actually be aware they are sucking your energy. They have sold themselves the story they are trying to sell you. For the discerning mind and heart, energy does not lie. We feel the dissonance. Our unconscious “voluntary opt-in” is the affirmation they seek to validate their life’s worth. Sounds like a lot of pressure, does it not? It is. When we experience a boiling point—a desire to explode at the very thought of the EVs presence—we know it is time to set new boundaries. If you determine you would like to keep the relationship with the EV, it is wise to be honest about how their behavior makes you feel. Pray for the timing to present itself effortlessly. Detach from any outcome aside from expressing your truth lovingly. Bring your awareness to your heart. Envision yourself emanating white light
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If you have an EV in your life, here are some suggestions to help you reclaim your power: 1. Feel the full breadth of your feelings free of judgment. Allow yourself to experience hurt, anger or even despair until those feelings get boring. (Hopefully, this happens sooner rather than later, as not to inflict self-injury.) 2. Get clear on what is in your heart. What aspects of your own personality are attracting the EV into your experience? Take responsibility for your life choices. 3. Give yourself permission to change by redefining your personal boundaries. Trust in your ability to say yes and no in alignment with the highest good for all involved. 4. Reflect on all the positive qualities of the EV and determine whether you would like to keep this person in your life. Remember that you always have a choice. If you have “no choice,” you are giving away your power. 5. Always open your heart for compassion to flow toward you and the EV. We are all teachers on this earthly plane and can manifest magnificent opportunities for mutual growth when our actions and intentions align.
while you speak your truth. Be kind, yet direct. Express hope that you believe the relationship can be better when the needs and perspectives of all involved are met. Share your ideas for what healthy boundaries look like. If you do not feel safe sharing your feelings, it is important to limit the time and energy you give an EV. Ultimately, we all want and need safe spaces. It is our responsibility to do so for ourselves and for our children when they need our help. If you are reading this and thinking, I am an EV—kudos to you. The first, and perhaps most challenging step, is becoming “aware” of the behavior. The act of witnessing is essential to creating a shift. Then, ask your friends and family to share how they really feel when they spend time with you. Commit to listening and not reacting. Express appreciation
and gratitude for anything they share. You will learn a great deal from this. Please engage your sense of humor. A good laugh is great medicine. If your heart and/or head hurt from the feedback—hallelujah. It means you care and want to be a better friend to yourself and others. Lastly, be kind to yourself, as you simultaneously take responsibility for your actions. It may take some time for others to see you as a safe space for deeper connection. Practice active listening and be patient with yourself and your social circle. True healing of this kind of dynamic takes time and consistent effort. Both being an energy vampire or spending time with one can be a gift. We learn the most from experiencing ourselves through the reflection of another. Becoming aware of our unconscious behaviors takes courage. Yet, with transparent and loving intentions for true connection, all can become the story of how we helped each other become whole.
Laura Marcos is the founder of Alchemy for Everyone, which helps empower business professionals, parents and teens to their own intuitive wisdom via practices and perspectives that nourish the soul and align in service to the whole. She can be reached at Laura@universalalchemy.org.
Lead Up for Women
25
PHILANTHROPY
A united front
New endings. New beginnings. A new you.
T
his is a surreal time. What started as a bad dream has pivoted into an extremely long-lasting nightmare. Yet, in spite of the pandemic, we have created a united front where real examples of hope and compassion and promise reign.
We have experienced plenty of new endings (“Schitt’s Creek” and “Ozark” in terms of television) and new beginnings (an upsurge in virtual meetings and free webinars). We are finally aware of the integral roles of so many—from healthcare and grocery store workers, to restaurants and cleaning service people—all of whom are making a positive contribution to our world with nary the recognition and appreciation they deserve.
26 Lead Up for Women
By Rochelle Brandvein
I believe that in time we will rise like a phoenix from the ashes. I know we will emerge stronger and smarter from this catastrophe.
Coming to our senses Trying to comprehend this abnormal time is difficult for people of all ages. But maybe, just maybe, we can transfer our focus away from the pain and
May-June 2020
uncertainty of the day to our five basic senses, and realize the beneficial effect this crisis is having on our world. And maybe while falling back on our senses, we can find the good in this and count our blessings. By expanding our awareness just a bit more—beyond our personal stresses—we can realize the positive impact nonprofits and organizations are making in our world—and then do our part to help them along.
Everything looks better Have you ever seen the sky so blue? It is a miracle to behold. What about reading children’s inspirational chalk messages? They give me goosebumps. Children have kicked up their imagination tenfold (thanks to the lack of playdates and sleepovers) and are powering through this blip. It is basically a retro movement—intense time spent with family and only family— where, like it or not, your kin now are your sole source of non-electric and non-internet entertainment. “The future’s so bright, you gotta wear shades.” Through a child’s eyes, the world should be shiny and carefree, yet that is not the reality for many. Organizations like Save the Children (www.Savethechildren.org) believe that every child deserves a future—a healthy start in life, and the opportunity to learn and be protected from harm. The nonprofit has changed the lives of more than one billion children in the US and around the world.
serves the professional interests of all EMS practitioners and professionals, providing prehospital and out-of-hospital emergent, urgent or preventive medical care.
Everything smells better I have not driven my car in weeks, and it is a good thing because less traffic means less pollution. That translates to fresher air and more fragrant flowers. A deep inhale followed by a long exhale is so much better when you eliminate all the typical stressors like a tense workplace or a busy lifestyle. It is both physically and mentally invigorating to fill your lungs with crisp, oxygen-enriched air. It sure does a body good.
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Everything tastes better Even though my husband is an amazing cook, I love eating out. It is a time-saving and interactive combination of fun, ambiance, convenience and variety. I most definitely enjoy partaking in the actual food. I miss the whole experience and look forward to returning to my favorite places so I can personally (and financially) thank everyone for their past and future service. Cheeseburger in paradise. The James Beard Foundation Food and Beverage Industry Relief Fund (www.jamesbeard.org/relief) provides
A deep inhale followed by a long exhale is so much better when you eliminate all the typical stressors like a tense workplace or a busy lifestyle. critical financial assistance to small, independent restaurants that—due to the COVID-19 national disaster—have an immediate need for funds to pay set operating expenses, provide for workers and keep from going out of business.
Everything feels better
Everything sounds better Zoom. Google Hangouts. FaceTime. WhatsApp. All of this communication makes things much easier. To hear a loved one’s voice or participate in a stay-at-home virtual meeting is seamless with current technology. These methods might not take the place of a hug or a handshake, but they definitely make the sweet sounds of the human voice seem like the music of a beloved concert in comparison to no interaction at all. The sound of silence. If you live by the “glass half full” motto, hearing sirens can signify rescue and relief. The National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (www.naemt.org) was formed in 1975 and has more than 72,000 members. It is the nation’s only organization that represents and
chapters, support groups and other local partners around the country.
Every breath you take. Founded in 1953, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (www.aafa.org) is the leading patient advocacy group dedicated to saving lives and reducing the burden of asthma and allergies. This nonprofit provides practical information, community services and support to people through a network of regional
Unless you personally suffer from a chronic ailment, I think most people take their health and medical access for granted. Need medication? Visit your doctor. Broken bone? Get an x-ray. In all capacities, the world of medicine helps us feel better and get better. Right now, the news is filled with endless stories about our healthcare workers who are tirelessly battling not just COVID-19, but so many more diseases. Everything is coming up roses. The Daisy Foundation (www.daisyfoundation.org) partners with more than 1,400 healthcare organizations and was inspired by incredible nursing care of a parent’s son. The “DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses” provides ongoing recognition celebrations throughout the year, honoring direct-care nurses for their compassion and skill.
Lead Up for Women
27
PHILANTHROPY
Lessons learned during this new normal A Pivotal Space focuses on three premises: Do good. Be better. Lead best. Right now is your chance to accomplish all three—and then some. Here are the Top 5 concepts I have embraced during the past six months, along with inspirational quotes that make me ponder my choices.. Be hopeful. “ But I know, somehow, that only when it is dark enough can you see the stars.” — Martin Luther King, Jr.
Be gracious. “ We must find time to stop and thank the people who make a difference in our lives.” — John F. Kennedy Be considerate. “ Kindness is a language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see.” — Mark Twain Be compassionate. “ Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a harder battle.” — Plato
Be present. “ Living in the moment means letting go of the past and not waiting for the future. It means living your life consciously, aware that each moment you breathe is a gift.” — Oprah Winfrey Which of your senses have been heightened during this pandemic? I’d love to hear.
Rochelle Brandvein is the owner of Brandvein-Aaranson Public Relations, a 30-year-old PR agency that recently pivoted to solely handling nonprofits and companies with a philanthropic arm or foundation. Her company specializes in publicity, copywriting and creative services.
Join us in leading Up through giving back
Donate: www.localhope.org/donation Volunteer: www.localhope.org/volunteer Sponsor a Child for School: www.localhope.org/sponsor/ students-seeking-sponsors
Did you know your gift of $30 can provide a night of safe housing for mother in need? Make your lifechanging donation to Maggie’s Place www.maggiesplace.org.
SheLift is a 501(c)3 organization that empowers young women with physical differences to discover confidence and self esteem through outdoor recreation and mentorship. Donations accepted: https://shelift.org Founded by Sarah Herron (previous Bachelorette contestant)
“The WBDC (Women’s Business Development Council) has helped more than 18,000 women across 169 Connecticut towns become better business people. WBDC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing the tools and resources to help women thrive in business. With a belief that if desire, education, and preparation come together, opportunities are created, and economies are expanded. The WBDC provides training and education necessary for women to launch and grow their businesses.” NOT YOUR AVERAGE BRACELET BRAND. We didn’t just want to be another cute bracelet brand. Screw that. The facts are clear - all of these causes are in desperate need of additional financial support and awareness and we knew we needed to do our part. Every bracelet donates $5 to the cause it supports. We worked tirelessly to find nonprofit organizations that are actively making positive strides towards change and really need our help to continue to do so.
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Lead Up for Women
May-June 2020
Book Your Exploration Session With Cloversy Today! In your business, do what you do best and outsource the rest.
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Lead Up Tips
10
YOU P L E EAD TO H TIPS NNECT, L NCE CO I N F L U E AND OTHERS
5.
LISTEN — Be supportive, personal and really listen, using your body language to affirm you are listening.
6.
COMMUNICATE, especially if you are in a leadership role. You should be transparent in a professional manner.
1.
BE TRUSTING AND TRUSTWORTHY by getting rid of any pre-conceived biases YOU may have. You will find that if you trust others, they will trust you. So keep your word and follow through on your actions.
2.
BE PERSONABLE, AMICABLE AND OUTGOING, but not in the sense that you are being popular.
8.
EMPOWER OTHERS via servant leadership.
3.
COLLABORATE with others on a formal or informal basis.
9.
HAVE AND SHARE THE VISION (aka “big picture thinking”)
4.
BE RESPECTING AND RESPECTFUL
7.
10.
BE CONFIDENT without being boastful and showy.
BE REALISTIC (with expectations)
Source: Sandra Hill is CEO and founder of New Horizen Coaching & Professional Growth Advancement. The firm offers life, business and career coaching for individuals and organizations that are contemplating or in the midst of changes to their life, employability or career. To schedule a free consultation, contact her via social media, email (shillcplc@gmail.com), or call or text 678-523-2890.
30 Lead Up for Women
May-June 2020
THIS IS NOT YOUR ORDINARY GET-AWAY! This is a one-of-a-kind, I’m serious about being seen in this world and it starts NOW kind of get-away! Because you are WORTH IT!
Be You Be Strong is an Elite Sanctuary for Women that have a burning desire to lead their lives without asking permission of others. This Powerful supported gathering is designed to foster your unique personal story, and individual clarity and growth; all while nurturing the discovery of YOU and your personal brand. Perks of this Sanctuary • 5 star accommodations in a luxury mansion • Entertainment, Great Conversations, and Deep Connections with 19 other ladies • Healthy food prepared by our personal Chef V Capaldi-The Paleo Boss Lady • Daily yoga, meditation, journaling and self love! • Half day field trip to give back in the community to women that need our power • Live for 3 days under one roof while being pampered with great food, self care, massages, and much much more. • 4-week Accountability Coaching w/ Colleen & all attendees following the event • But, you have to Show Up to be seen...
UT O LD O TS S O M AL DON’T MISS THE LAST SANCTUARY FOR 2020
SEPTEMBER 17TH-20TH : DALLAS, TX
Apply today, only 20 women will be chosen for each Sanctuary Your application will be used for the sanctuary you note on the application.
WWW.LEADUPFORWOMEN.COM/EVENTS
Need Responsible, Fully Engaged Employees?
The #1 competitive advantage for ‘organizations of high performance’ is investing in a human system that creates a NEW KIND OF TEAM in which people are motivated from within. These organizations have developed a RESPONSIBILITY-BASED culture. – Judy Ryan, CEO LifeWork Systems
A RESPONSIBILITY-BASED culture is one where you have buy-in from everyone at EVERY LEVEL. Only then do your people show up STRONG no matter what circumstances they face. Everyone works together collaboratively, embracing a common mission. For this to occur, conditions must be supportive and inclusive, so work gets done quickly and efficiently. Then, despite, extreme conditions, your organization THRIVES and you see rewards everywhere. Are you an executive responsible for systems that positively impact employee engagement, agility, performance and productivity? If so, this event is for you!
« Click on this video for a short preview. (https://vimeo.com/416733222)
Free Event: Improve Your Business By Improving Your Culture This 2-hour event is provided by LifeWork Systems and is limited to 10 executive leaders who want new ideas, support and strategies to meet today’s challenges, stay ahead of today’s trends, are passionate about staying competitive and highly productive and are: 1. Responsible for systems that impact employee engagement, agility and performance 2. Willing to complete a quick organizational wellness survey before this event LifeWork Systems has been a leader in culture transformation since 2002. Date and Time: Tuesday, June 16, 9:00 - 11:00 am
www.lifeworksystems.com
