the Magazine
Adapt & Overcome PowerfulWomenGulfCoast.com
Vol.4, Ed.1 August 2020
In This Edition
On the Cover: Dr Jessica Griffen and Kristin Longley Photography by Kate Treick Photography. Location: Alga Beer Company, 12th Avenue
6 USING NON-TRADITIONAL
TOOLS CAN LEAD TO NON-TRADITIONAL SUCCESS
17 SPOTLIGHTS OF
A FEW OF THE PWGC PREMIER MEMBERS
Dr. Jessica Griffen offers us her insight, gained from nearly 20 years in the executive world.
10 RISE ABOVE
IMPOSTER SYNDROME
Get to know some of our members!
22 PERSONAL BRANDING
AND A STRONG NETWORK CAN HELP US ADAPT
Kendra Woods gives practical advice on overcoming imposter syndrome and walking in confidence.
14 IMPROVING YOUR
EMOTIONAL WELLNESS TAKES ACTION
Kristin Longley shares her strategy for navigating big changes.
26 MEET VASAVI!
KEYNOTE SPEAKER FOR THE PURSUE YOUR PASSION 2020 CONFERENCE
Felipe Munoz on defining and maintaining emotional wellness, with practical steps for taking care of ourselves.
Vasavi Kumar shares her inpiring journey as a first-generation Indian American woman.
30 WE ALL LOSE EVENTUALLY.
WHAT MATTERS IS HOW WE HANDLE IT Quint Studer on dealing with loss and moving through disappointments.
MAGAZINE TEAM
Contributors/Writers:
Editor: Kolleen Edwards Chesley, PWGC Layout: Racheal Peterson, Graphic Designer Photographers: Kate Treick, Kate Treick Photography, and Michelle & Phillip Salzman, Salz Studio
Ruthie Christie, Pensacola Young Professionals Felipe Munoz, Empathic Practice
Powerful Women of the Gulf Coast: P.O. Box 1125, Pensacola, FL 32591 (P) 850-529-0908 www.powerfulwomengulfcoast.com Email to: directors@powerfulwomengulfcoast.com
Quint Studer, Business Leader, Speaker and Author Kendra Woods, Kendra Woods, Intl, LLC
Published for PWGC by DLUX Printing & Mailing, Inc. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within, however, PWGC is not responsible for any errors or omissions that might occur. PWGC does not endorse the advertisers and disclaims all liability for claims or damages that may result from transactions with PWGC, The Magazine advertisers or from the purchase or use of advertised products or services. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or part in any way without written permission from PWGC. PowerfulWomenGulfCoast.com
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LETTER FROM EDITOR Powerful People UNITE! When you say the year 2020, words like unexpected, unpredictable, and unbelievable easily come to mind and have been written about repeatedly. However, I also think of words like determined, adaptable and unprecedented. Those words and other words of inspiration are shared by so many in the articles in this edition and give me hope and excitement for what the rest of this year will bring. Our organization was hit hard by the pandemic and economic recession, much like so many others. However, we know how many of you rely on what we do and it’s important that we produce this edition so we can continue to inspire and motivate and bring you the tools that you say you need in today’s changed world. Our mission is to promote, advance and improve women in business. Our vision is to be the premier organization for women's business development and growth. We create an arena for ALL women to come together, share successes, provide actionable training and tools and encourage collaboration and charitable giving. Through PWGC our women empower themselves and others towards individual prosperity and business success, therefore changing our community. That's a really powerful statement and one we take seriously. We hope you find inspiration and motivation in the authenticity shared in the pages that follow. If you need more support, we encourage you to reach out. We are here for you. Proudly,
Kolleen
Kolleen Edwards Chesley, Founding Director, Powerful Women of the Gulf Coast 850-529-0908
August 2020
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Thank you to the Board of Powerful Women of the Gulf Coast! We are grateful to these individuals who volunteer their time and bring their passion, intellect, creative insight, experiences and resources to the table so that this organization remains strong and provides valuable benefits for our members. We are appreciative of such strong leadership!
Christina Powers, Lead Officer
Margie Kalaluhi, Board Member
Max Gutierrez, Board Member
Angel Allen, Board Member
Kolleen Edwards Chesley, Non-Voting Board Member
Using Non-Traditional Tools Can Lead to Non-Traditional Success By Ruthie Christie As Interviewed by Kolleen Edwards Chesley Photography by John Rigsby
From addressing discrimination within the Department of Defense overseas to working as one of two Black women in the Global Risk Management Solutions department of PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), Dr. Jessica Griffen has experienced time and again the importance of having the right tools at the right time to do the job at hand in the right way. Now, after nearly 20 years in the executive world, Jessica’s insight is informed by the opportunities, relationships, and lessons learned that have shaped her path, and she is eager to share which tactics belong in your toolbox to build your vision of success. #1: Cultivate Relationships and Connections When we first think of “tools” for succeeding in business, many of us may think of technology and equipment, sophisticated software, and welldocumented processes. While those things are important, there is a more critical lynchpin on which your business success will ultimately rely. “Relationships are key,” says Jessica. “(You need to know) someone in technology, someone in HR, someone in mental health. You need established relationships because you may need help one day.” This is especially true for women in male-dominated industries like the ones Jessica navigated because
“as women, we already know we have to go above and beyond to prove our smarts”, and cultivating meaningful relationships leads to having a team on your side. With the deep and broad experience Jessica has gleaned over the years, myriad examples of the importance of strong relationships come to mind. “I remember when my partner asked me to present all of our lines of service, and I had just returned from vacation. He watched my face because he wanted to see if I was going to crumble (because I was crumbling inside). He said, ‘You have three days.’ I said, ‘OK.’ And I never let him see me crumble, because I knew I had those relationships to rely on. I was able to call upon the geeks of PwC Global Risk Management Solutions division. They developed a Jeopardy game for which I was the hostess. We introduced our lines of service, and I only asked the questions. My team gave all the answers. It was simply brilliant. Because they had created this game, it took the pressure off me. They saved me. You have to have diverse relationships in business because you never know who you will need to call upon.” # 2: Emotional Intelligence One of the best predictors of business success is a high level of Emotional Intelligence (EI) or the ability to
understand and manage your own feelings, understand how emotion influences the motivation and behavior of others, and the management of the relationship. The good news about EI is that it can be developed and strengthened with practice and reflection. At the beginning of her career, Jessica had ample opportunity to build her EI while she worked for the Department of Defense (Navy) as the Deputy Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Officer in Naples, Italy, managing EEO processes. In this role, Jessica was responsible for managing the entire process when it came to addressing discrimination complaints. She bore witness to many horrific stories, mostly from women, who felt discriminated against as they attempted to advance to the next level in their careers. “I ran the program for five years which meant I had to be an even-keeled, stable, calm individual. Many European managers were male, and their disposition was, ‘You’re a woman, so you should be at home.’ Even through their disrespect, I still had to be decent, in order, and reasonable, accommodating everyone involved.” These early lessons stuck with Jessica as she advanced to future endeavors, which was fortunate because with each new challenge came the opportunity to strengthen her EI muscles and build her expertise in relationship management. #3: Leverage Your Network Once relationships are fostered and a high level of EI is built, maintaining open connections means others can invest, tangibly, in your success. Building your network provides you the opportunity to leverage external resources, especially when the going gets tough. When Jessica elevated to the Senior Manager role at PwC, she was on track August 2020
for partnership but was experiencing burnout and had serious concerns about her career path. She shares, “Every time I walked in the room, I felt like I was on display. Regardless of my intellect, my capability, my competence, my confidence, I never got the same opportunities as my male counterparts. I felt downtrodden. I needed a mental break. And I was honest about it.” It turns out Jessica’s boss was surprised by this news because Jessica was such an asset to PwC, and he was willing to help. Shortly thereafter her partner offered Jessica a compensation package that allowed her to transition to entrepreneurial school as a career path to learn how to be in business for herself. Her partner also set up Jessica’s home office with all the equipment she needed to get started: printers, scanners, computer, everything. He was concerned about her mental health and how he could be an asset to her evolution. He wanted to see Jessica thrive and see her successful. Because Jessica demonstrated her value in the workplace, cultivated her connections, and had spoken up honestly about her professional aspirations and needs, she benefited tangibly from the partner’s recognition of her potential and investment in her future success.
through the struggles. And there will always be struggles.” Education, Jessica points out, does not necessarily equal college. “Learn what training you need and put it to work to start building your skillsets,” she recommends. Even as a highly successful careerwoman, Jessica herself benefited from her boss’s offer for more training after leaving the professional world she knew. “If he had not mentioned entrepreneurial school, I would not have known about it. Because of that training, I was able to understand the dynamics of running a company, running an organization. I felt more comfortable stepping out in business.” Putting the training into practice to
#4: Competence is Key When positive relationships are in place and your network is knowledgeable about your needs, it is time to build the specific skillsets required for your vision of success. For this part, Jessica says, education training, experience, and exposure are the tools to build your competence. “If you don’t build a strong foundation, somebody will be able to come and blow your house down. Your competence serves as the bricks of the foundation to help you sustain 7
PowerfulWomenGulfCoast.com
gain some real-world experience is the next step, she shares. And then, wherever it is you’re working, look for opportunities to get exposure. “Even if you’re not making a lot of money, the experience and the exposure build the confidence,” Jessica says. “Confidence is predicated on competence. Competence breeds confidence. They are inextricably intertwined. You can be nervous, but if you go into the room and know yourself and know your stuff, your competence is going to show up.”
Spend your time enjoying life...
#5 Invest in Yourself Finally, Jessica imparts this wisdom: “Give yourself the opportunity to invest in yourself based on the skillsets you developed with your education and training. Because of the investment my partner made in me, I wanted to write a poem about investing in yourself. I asked a friend to do it, and she said, ‘You have to do that. You have to commit yourself.’ So, I wrote a poem, and every time I speak to a group, especially youth, I share this poem with them:”
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I’ll tell you why. To be greater than great. And not lesser than less. Dr. Jessica Griffen has spent her career building meaningful connections and sharing her tactics for success. By cultivating relationships using a high level of Emotional Intelligence, you, too, can leverage your network, acquire training, and feel empowered to invest in yourself.
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Author credit: Ruthie Christie is a Gulf Coast native whose background is in Industrial-Organizational Psychology. She serves as the Executive Director for the Pensacola Young Professionals and loves exploring Pensacola with her Golden Retriever, Daisy.
3700 Creighton Rd Unit 10 Pensacola FL 32504 info@christinapowerstax.com
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Testimonials
“
This interview with Kolleen Chesley is still to date one of my favorite one on one podcasts! I love that my membership includes an opportunity to share my love for a holistic life, holistic leadership and holistic marketing. I think this is one of the interviews I’ll go back to if I ever feel a little lost. Thank you Powerful Women of the Gulf Coast!
“ “ “
”
- Zulma Berenice, Creative Life Media
If we’re going to be successful in developing our community, every business owner should do everything they can to maximize our human capital. We don’t have a chance to grow without cultivating the leadership skills and competitive drive of women in entrepreneurship.
”
– Quint Studer, Business Leader, Speaker, Author
Powerful Women was one of the reasons I decided to branch out on my own and open my own law firm. From the monthly meetings, I built connections and skills but most importantly, I gained the confidence I needed to take such a huge leap. Two years later and I’m going strong and growing my thriving law practice!
”
– Lacie Bowden, Lacie Bowden Law
I’m excited to be one of the participants in the new Mastermind Group by Powerful Women of the Gulf Coast. Being in business for myself, I need accountability, fresh ideas, and sometimes some advice. The group of people in the mastermind meetings are like-minded business owners with a growth mindset. I’m starting a commitment to myself and the group by creating business goals, attending the meetings for accountability and incorporating new systems.
”
– Lizz Acosta-Pearson, Independent Norwex Consultant
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August 2020
RISE ABOVE
Imposter Syndrome By Kendra Woods “I don’t really belong here.” “I don’t really deserve this. I haven’t worked hard enough.” “At any moment my clients are going to find out that I’m just winging it.”
behind an employer, everyone is looking at you and when you feel like a fraud you are not able to fully show up in your business in a way that feels good for you.
one step ahead of the “fraud police”:
As a woman in business, you may find yourself doubting your ability to be truly successful in the world of business. There is this nagging voice in your head that wants you to believe that you aren't good enough or that you don't really know enough to call yourself a businesswoman. You are secretly struggling with these thoughts and feelings of inadequacy and on some days it probably feels like you are drowning on the inside.
I have found in my work that the women who identify with this often beat themselves up for not being better or they fall into the trap of comparing themselves to others which literally suffocates your dreams.
3. Maintaining a low profile
For some women, the fear and anxiety caused by the Impostor Syndrome can be debilitating and make you feel like you are stuck. It leaves you feeling helpless.
7. Self-sabotage
For most of my career, I secretly struggled with feeling like an impostor even though I had the education (two degrees) and experience to back me These are the thoughts and feelings of up. I would allow my doubt and fear to what is called the Impostor Syndrome rule me which lead me to procrastinawhich is this deep down feeling that tion which brought up even more fear. you are a fraud and have somehow It is a vicious cycle that can hold you come by your success by “luck” or back from reaching your full potential. “accident.” And these feelings just don't plague Psychologist Pauline Clance and business women like you and me, Suzanne Imes coined the term there are well-known women who “Impostor Syndrome” in 1978 when have struggled with this as well. they were studying successful women who believed that they were not Pulitzer Prize nominee Maya Angelou worthy of their achievements. Here is spoke out about her journey of feeling like an impostor, she said, “I have their definition: written 11 books, but each time I A feeling of “phoniness in people think, ‘Uh oh, they’re going to find me who believe they are not intelligent, out now. I’ve run a game on everybody, capable or creative despite evidence and they’re going to find me out.” of high achievements.” These people also “live in fear of being ‘found out’ Because we are human, we come up with some pretty clever ways to cope or exposed as frauds.” with feeling like an impostor and rather Being in business for yourself as a you recognize it or not, you have also woman is a very vulnerable act because found ways to cope with it. Here are you are the business, there is no hiding seven ways impostors attempt to stay If you have ever felt like this or had these thoughts cross your mind know that you are not alone.
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1. Over preparing 2. Holding yourself back 4. Trying to win approval 5. Procrastination 6. Never finishing what you start There is nothing to be ashamed of because we have all participated in one or more of the above protection mechanisms. By now you are probably wondering how you can overcome these feelings and you want to know the solution. When you understand how to work with these feelings of inadequacy and feeling like a fraud, you can unleash your full potential. The solution to feeling like you are a fraud is really about taking simple, actionable steps, on a consistent basis over time. The more you practice what I am about to share with you the quieter the critical voice within becomes. As this voice becomes more and more quiet you will find that you feel more confident and have a deeper clarity about how you desire to show up in business. You will start to feel the innate power and wisdom within you rise up and that is an amazing feeling. Here’s how you can overcome the Impostor Experience: 1. Keep a brag journal - write down every single accomplishment (big PowerfulWomenGulfCoast.com
or small) in a journal and refer to it regularly when you feel self-doubt or inadequacy creeping in. 2. Practice the ‘I am qualified exercise’ - on a sheet of paper list out all of the training you have ever received, all the education you have received, the skills you possess, your natural talents, any coaching you have invested in, any seminars, etc. The idea is to create a master list of how you are naturally equipped and how you have invested in honing your skills. This exercise serves to remind you that you are more than qualified to show up and own your greatness. 3. Become aware of and reframe your negative thoughts - pay attention to what you are thinking about and when you have a negative thought that comes up immediately reframe that thought into one that serves your highest good instead of bringing you down. Remember, you can become unstuck and unstoppable by choosing to master your mind and embracing your natural skills and abilities. Impostor Syndrome does not have to be your reality.
PowerfulWomenGulfCoast.com
Author credit: Kendra Woods is a Transformational Coach, Speaker and Bestselling Author in Pensacola. Kendra helps the rising female entrepreneur become unstuck and unstoppable by helping her master her mind, strengthen her spiritual connection to self and embody her unique design. Connect with Kendra on social media @ Kendra C. Woods or www.kendrakaywoods.com
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THANK YOU YOU FOR FOR SUPPORTING SUPPORTING OUR OUR SOCIAL THANK SOCIAL DISTANCING DISTANCING GUIDELINES. GUIDELINES. Allbookstore bookstorestaff staff All arerequired requiredto to are wearface facemasks. masks. wear
Temperatures of of all all staff staff Temperatures members are are taken taken upon upon members arrival of of each each shift. shift. arrival
Cleaning Cleaning includes includes all all door door handles, handles, public public furniture, furniture, and and high-touchpoints high-touchpoints
Food Foodand andbeverage beverage staff staffwear wearmedical-grade medical-grade gloves glovesat atall alltimes. times.
Conference Pictures
Photographed by Kate Treick Photography
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August 2020
Improving Your Emotional Wellness Takes Action by Felipe Munoz
Emotional wellness is a powerful tool to take care of our mental health while remaining emotionally healthy. Whether your business is a large operation with multiple employees, you are a solo-preneur or even a work-fromhome mom managing now the extra duty of home teacher, your emotional wellness is critical to maintaining a proper balance in your life.
Women are well-aware of the benefits of physical exercise, eating healthy and good skin care for our outsides. Self-esteem, self-respect, and positive energy are all important parts of being emotionally healthy. Why Is Emotional Wellness Important?
Mental and emotional wellness will help you reduce stress and develop inner strength. It is an important part It is about being aware of your of self-care to manage your feelings emotions while understanding and and not let them rule your life. accepting them. Mental health and physical health are connected, as poor When you are emotionally unhealthy, emotional health can have a negative your life may seem unmanageable and even your coworkers may not be able effect on the body. What is Emotional Wellness?
Tips for Maintaining Emotional Wellness in the Workplace Stay Positive and Brighten Your Outlook Focus on the ways you help others and the good deeds you do. Spend time with your friends, coworkers, and the people you love who are positive. Volunteer work for a charity you love, brings joy!
What is Nia? Nia is an inspiring, integrative movement and lifestyle practice for body, mind and spirit! Nia combines techniques and concepts from martial arts, dance arts and healing arts by blending music, movements and self-expression into dynamic, hour-long routines.
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to help you deal with your feelings. Taking the time for your emotional well-being will help you deal with people and with life in a way that is good for your overall health.
Nia Class Schedule Monday/Tuesday: 5:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesday/Friday: 9-10 a.m. More Classes to Choose From: Tai-Chi, Meditation, Breathwork, Yoga, Latin and Belly Dance, GYROKINESISÂŽ, Sound Baths, Workshops and more!
904 E Scott Street, Pensacola, FL 32503 | 850-530-5275 NiaVanaStudio.com | NiaVanaStudios@gmail.com August 2020
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Reduce Stress
friend who always makes you laugh. Send a thank you note to someone you appreciate. Become a member of groups with like-minded individuals and help the people who need it. By connecting with others, you create positive emotional connections.
If you are overwhelmed, take a hard look at your workload and cross off a few items from your to do list that are not necessary. If a business decision or situation is weighing heavy on you, acknowledge it and take steps to deal with it. Seek emotional wellness Cope with Loss therapy if you are unable to cope with 2020 has brought some unbelievable the stress of life. challenges to businesses small and Be Mindful large. Whether you have been through business losses or personal ones, loss is Consider how many zoom meetings incredibly difficult to deal with. When you are scheduling in one day. Turn going through grief, do not be afraid off your notifications and focus on the to ask for help. Seek out a support present moment and be aware of how group, lean on your friends, be honest important your energy is. with staff and coworkers, and prioritize your health. Think Before You Act Regulate your emotions by being Get Quality Sleep aware of how you feel but not letting it Try to go to bed and wake up at the consume you. When you get an upset- same time each day. Have set times to ting email or phone call, take time stop working. If you are working from to pause before you act. Sometimes, home, the lines may have become even waiting until the next day gives blurred where work stops, and home you a chance to see the situation from time begins. Be intentional and stop a different perspective. Controlling working so your brain can unplug. Try your impulses is vital. not to turn to alcohol before sleep. Good sleep equals good emotional Connect with Others health. Even with social distancing, we can still prioritize being social. Call a
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Take Care of Your Physical Health Physical exercise is excellent for your mental health. It reduces anxiety and stress by sending positive signals to the body. If working from home, you might be sitting more often than before. Counteract this by maintaining a good physical exercise routine. Your body and your mind will thank you! Strive for Balance Life is all about balance. You cannot be all work and no play. Make the time to be productive, but do not be afraid to take breaks and do things you enjoy. This will motivate you and boost your productivity. Author credit: With more than 15 years of experience in branding and business development, Felipe Munoz is Empathic Practice’s partner-owner and Lead Coach. Working with teams and individuals he focuses on Emotional Intelligence and Mindset coaching using mindfulness, meditation, and creative thinking. Empathic Practice is a Holistic Lifestyle Wellness Clinic with focus on Stress Management.
August 2020
Words are life.
Go-to motivation and wisdom from our audience to help others:
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Focus on a simple positive sentence while falling asleep. Falling asleep is a natural state of hypnosis and a very powerful tool to create and manifest your visions and goals. – Gabriele Powell
Business Solutions
Make sure you take some time everyday to do Fast Onsite Service
something for you! Make sure you go outside everyday and get some much needed Vitamin D. – Christina Powers
Always together! Our most powerful tool is to support one another. Thank you to Powerful Women of the Gulf Coast for continuing your mission during these challenging times. – Sylvia Ramos
6425 Pensacola Blvd. ∙ Suite 3A Pensacola, FL 32505 850.888.BYTE ∙ YOURTEKPRO.COM
This quote always helps me during times like this ‘Tough times don't last, tough people do’ by Robert Schuler – Michele Kobielnik
It takes a village with the right tribe members – April Bourgeois Sempre Gumby! Always Flexible! The Truth Changes! - both were mottos for USNS Mercy during Desert Shield and Storm. – Kim Stefansson
Invest in Yourself! It Pays the Best Interest! – Beth Clark Don’t give up. Keep moving. Action creates reaction so don’t be still. – Summer-Rain Bussard
Care for yourself like you care for others. – Frances Cutshaw This one has been so impactful, it says on my bathroom mirror - 'I will be wild, difficult to find and impossible to forget!' - Dana Pagador
Do today on purpose! – Dara Wilson
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Showcasing a Few of Our Members Kay Montgomery
Max Gutierrez
DESTINY TODAY
PENSACOLA ATHLETIC CENTER I manage a team of fitness professionals that strive to create an incredible gym experience. Our 24 hour gym provides childcare, personal training, group classes, lap swimming, tennis, and more. At Pensacola Athletic Center we take pride in our cleanliness, atmosphere, and customer service. Stop in and check us out! Tel: 850.453.1534 Email: max@pacactive.com www.pacactive.com 7700 W Highway 98, Pensacola, FL 32506
An independent Coach, Trainer and Speaker, Certified with the John Maxwell Team. I love helping individuals and teams become excited about their life and their work. Discovering a way to live and work full-out. Don’t Delay, Step into your Destiny Today. Tel: 850.712.5604 Email:Kay@destinytoday.net Destinytoday.net
Mary Abshire
Patrice Martinez NEW YORK LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
CALIFORNIA CLOSETS As a leading Design Consultant with California Closets, Mary’s facilitated projects of all levels throughout the Gulf Coast. She understands how to combine Client’s wants and needs with a unique collaborative process perfected by California Closets. She’s excited to help lead their new Emerald Coast showroom to open by 2021. Tel: 337.255.6273 Email: MAbshire@CalClosets.com www.CaliforniaClosets.com/gulf-coast
We work with individuals to help identify, financially, where they are at today and where they want to be tomorrow. We offer a comprehensive approach towards financial planning to prepare our clients for all scenarios. After figuring out what is important to you, we will work together to tailor a specific financial portfolio for your goals. Tel: 850.776.3442 Email: pmartinez01@ft.newyorklife.com www.facebook.com/PatriceMartinezNYL
Vicky White
April Bourgeois
ERA OLD SOUTH PROPERTIES
BE SAMADHI YOGA
I am a realtor who grew up here in Pensacola. it is important to me to communicate with my clients during the buying or selling process so that they are aware of what is going on.
Yoga means United. Connected. Yoked One. Not inspired to go to a studio? I would cross oceans and travel miles to see your smile as you yoga yourself to complete body, mind, and spirit. Meet Me On The Mat Where I’m At, Unplug and Connect. Together, we can Be Samadhi.
Tel: 850.777.1680 Email: vwhite9120@yahoo.com
Tel: 850.619.9104 www.besamadhiyoga.com Also at NiaVana Studio. 904 E Scott St.
www.vickywhite.realtor 6218 N 9th Ave, Pensacola, FL 32504
For more information about membership in our organization, visit www.powerfulwomengulfcoast.com August 2020
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Showcasing a Few of Our Members Kristen Deese
Frances Cutshaw
GULF COAST BUSINESS COACHING
BRAVER COMMUNITIES
Through business coaching and systemization, I show business owners how to get out of today’s overwhelm so they can be intentional about the future of their business.
Certified Dare to Lead ™️ Facilitator and leadership/couragebuilding consulting for individuals and teams. Focus on nonprofit organizations.
Tel: 850.396.3472
Tel: 850.483.1188
Email: kristen@gcbcoaching.com
Email: frances@bravercommunities.com
www.gcbcoaching.com
www.bravercommunities.com
Dawn Grace
Denise Ables
UNDERWOOD ANDERSON INSURANCE
PACE - CENTER FOR GIRLS
Underwood Anderson Insurance is a local Commercial and Personal lines insurance agency in business over 30 years. I am a commercial agent working with all aspects of business insurance and specializing in professional liability, cyber liability and insurance for non-profits.
PACE Center for Girls is one of 21 schools in Florida dedicated to empowering young women to complete their education while promoting personal, social and family skills. PACE students take responsibility for their lives and blossom with self-esteem. Want to know more? Contact me!
Tel: 850-434-5526
Tel: 850-816-8560
Email: dawn@underwoodanderson.com
Email: beachywoman63@gmail.com
www.underwoodanderson.com
www.pacecenter.org/locations/escambia-santa-rosa
Monica Mortara
Zulma Berenice
LEVIN RINKE REALTY
ONESTA HOLISTC HOME CLEANING
Whether you are looking to buy and/or sell property in the Gulf Coast area, Monica is devoted to listening and learning about her clients’ needs. Her integrity, energy, hard work, and creative service will be reflected in all aspects of your real estate transaction. Licensed in Florida and Alabama. Tel: 850-565-7600
Our goal is to support and motivate a sense of mindfulness and peace in our community through holistic home cleaning. Now offering a variety of approaches to achieve and maintain a client's optimal health. A healthy and creative lifestyle starts with a clean home. Tel: 850.781.4150 (Text only)
Email: monicagulfcoastrealtor@gmail.com
Email: Zulma@empathicpractice.us
www.monicamortararealtor.com
Ohhclean.com
We appreciate all our members! To see the rest of our members, please visit www.powerfulwomengulfcoast.com August 2020
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Showcasing a Few of Our Members Erin Wilmer
Beth Clark EMERALD COAST WELLNESS
EDWARD JONES INVESTMENTS
Optimal wellness begins with having the knowledge, practical tools and accountability to make, implement and maintain healthy Lifestyle, Exercise, Attitude and Nutrition choices. Join me for some fun and interactive hands-on learning
Whether planning or living in retirement, dealing with the death of a loved one or preparing for college, Erin provides sound, strategic and trustworthy financial advice to her clients. "There is no substitute from hard work and dedication," her motto, she learned from 24 years of Honorable Naval Service. Tel: 850-492-5411
Tel: 850.525.8942 Email: EmeraldCoastWellnessPlus@gmail.com
Email: erin.wilmer@edwardjones.com
EmeraldCoastWellness.com
www.edwardjones.com/financial-advisor/erin.wilmer
Michelle Salzman
Kendra Woods, MBA
SALZ STUDIO
KENDRA WOODS, INTL, LLC
Salz Studio is an award winning business solutions company that focuses on photography, graphics design and web development. A dedicated team providing exquisite photographic and artistic services to clients. Brides, models, and commercial firms have relied on us to both inspire and accent the visions for what they’re wanting. Tel: 850.207.5024
Kendra is a Life + Mindset Coach who specializes in helping women become free of their limiting beliefs, emotional blocks and stories so that they can reconnect with the heart and essence of who they really are. She offers Private Client Packages, Workshops and Motivational Speaking. Tel: 850.341.4040 Email: kendra@kendrakaywoods.com
Email: michelle@salzstudio.com
www.kendrakaywoods.com
www.salzstudio.com
Natalie Sommer
Rebecca Montenegro BIO-ONE
STUDIO SOUTH
Bio-One is a veteran owned and operated biohazard remediation company. We specialize in hoarding, bodily fluid cleanup, urine/feces cleanup, and many more extreme cleaning scenarios. We serve Pensacola and surrounding areas, all the way into Alabama. Our clients chose Bio-One for our proven prompt and professional services during difficult times. Tel: 850.855.6349 Email: info@bioonepensacolafl.com bioonepensacola.com
Studio South: a shop specializing in hand-dyed & spun yarns, fiber classes, & supplies for making your own magic. Changing the world 1 stitch, 1 skein, 1 smile at a time. Tel: 850.860.0906 www.studiosouthon9mileroad.com 955 E. 9 Mile Rd #101
For more information about membership in our organization, visit www.powerfulwomengulfcoast.com PowerfulWomenGulfCoast.com
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Showcasing a Few of Our Members Maria Vigodsky
Christina Powers
MARIA VIGODSKY, LLC
CHRISTINA POWERS TAX
Maria is a board certified life coach, purpose clarity coach & career counselor. She specializes in helping women reduce stress and reach their goals by discovering who they are and living a life they love. She provides support and accountability to navigate changes, challenges, and transitions.
We are a small firm that is geared to helping individuals and small businesses with their tax needs. We also offer bookkeeping, payroll and incorporation services. Our goal is to take the stress of the day to day accounting off of you so you can focus on your business growth.
Tel: 850.291.7124
Tel: 850.332.4432 Email: christina@christinapowerstax.com
coach@mariavigodsky.com
www.christinapowerstax.com
Mia Bolden
Michele A. Kobielnik
BEAUTIFUL YOU STUDIO
AFFILIATED INSURANCE OF PENSACOLA, INC.
Beautiful You Studio is a Women's Vertical Pole & Bungee Studio. Where fitness and empowerment combine! Semi private class sizes with an amazing sisterhood of ladies! Are you ready to see what your body can do?!
Over 30 years experience, member of FL Blue 10 Million Dollar Diamond Club, specializing in employee benefits market. Not only group health and life but also ancillary benefits which can be payroll deducted. No business too large or too small, quotes are ready quickly. Please give me a call.
Tel: 850.418.3556 Email: miasht@yahoo.com www.beautifulyoustudio.fitness 513 W. Intendencia St Pensacola FL 32502
Tel: 850.477.5840 Email: michelek@affiliatedins.net
Telecia Walker, CPC, LMT
Felicia Fortune Northcutt COLDWELL BANKER
EXPERIENCE ANEW Telecia Walker is the owner of Experience Anew, a Transformational Speaker, International Best Selling Author, Wellbeing Coach and Massage Therapist. Experience Anew offers massage therapy and coaching to help clients increase their levels of performance and fulfillment in their daily lives, establish healthy relationships with themselves and others and facilitate healing from occupational and emotional stressors. Tel: 850.207.7599 Email: teleciaw@experienceanew.com
Your Northwest Florida real estate connection. A positive, helpful partner for buying or selling a home and knowledgeable resource for Santa Rosa and Escambia Counties. Tel: 850 637-5387 Email: felicia.northcutt@floridamoves.com www.feliciasellsfloridahomes.com
We appreciate all our members! To see the rest of our members, please visit www.powerfulwomengulfcoast.com August 2020
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Showcasing a Few of Our Members Julie Still-Rolin
Shauna Osborne OSTEOSTRONG Osteostrong is a scientificallybacked concept that helps you strengthen the foundation of your body-the skeletal system. Many members experience improved bone density, posture, balance, agility, and athletic performance as well as decreased joint and muscle pain. Just come as you are and let us handle the rest!
STILL- ROLIN ASSOCIATES
Tel: 850.480.7333
Email: juliestillrolin@gmail.com
Author, Speaker, and Creative Entrepreneur. Founder, Evolve 'n Thrive, an event hosting company for LGBT+ community building, fun, and story telling. Tel: 850.530.8088
Email: gulfbreeze@osteostrong.me
www.juliestillrolin.com
https://osteostronggulfbreeze.me
E. L. “Betsy” Smith, PhD
Crystal Silins
E.L. SMITH CONSULTING, LLC
CANNALIVING WITH CRYSTAL
Betsy works with women in the workforce to strategize their path to success via Individual and Group Mentoring, Workshops and Training. Her tools include Strengthsfinder, DISC and her creation, Betsy’s Rules for Women in the Workforce.
Crystal is an 8-year Navy Veteran who left corporate America 2 years ago to pursue her passion and advocacy for the power of the cannabis plant after beating breast cancer, and focusing on her health in mind, body, and soul. She prides herself in breaking the cannabis stigma.
Tel: 850.384.4874
Tel: 757-990-2589 Email: cannalivingcrystal@gmail.com www.pensacolacbd.com / www.cannalivingcrystal.com
www.ElSmithconsulting.com
Angel T. Allen
Sonya Nobles Dukett
NETWORK NONPROFITS, INC.
NIAVANA STUDIO
Network Nonprofits, Inc. is a nonprofit consulting firm that contributes to the foundational growth and sustainability of other nonprofits through Grant Research/Writing, Fundraising/ Event Planning, Organizational Development, Financial/Payroll Services, Legal Services, and Board Development/Training.
NiaVana Studio takes a holistic approach to addiction, depression, anxiety, obseity and more. Sonya is a Licensed Health & Wellness Coach and A Certified Spiritual Guide, as well as a Reiki Master/ Teacher. Offering Nia, Meditation, Yoga, Tai-Chi, Latin, Esctatic & Belly Dance, Breathe & Sound Baths and more. Private Event Space and office space available to rent.
Tel: 850.270.7065 Email: angel@networknonprofits.org networknonprofits.org
Tel: 850.530.5275 Email: sonyadukett@gmail.com www.NiaVanaStudio.com
For more information about membership in our organization, visit www.powerfulwomengulfcoast.com PowerfulWomenGulfCoast.com
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August 2020
Personal Branding and a Strong Network Can Help Us Adapt By Kolleen Edwards Chesley Photography by Salz Studio
Kristin Longley reflects on the first time she remembers a real change in her path. As a young woman, she aspired to be Barbara Walters, the image of a successful female broadcast journalist. Kristin would intently watch Barbara’s respected interviewing ability and popularity with viewers and would enhance her own writing, hoping one day to be that woman on TV broadcasting the news. Kristin was on her path. She was in journalism school at the University of Missouri School of Journalism and learning broadcast journalism, while covering floods and local stories. She was at the studio at 4 am, recording promo spots and writing stories for noon newscasts. She quickly realized there was much more to this role than the final product she saw on TV. She asked herself if this was for her, and rethought her plan. “I’m not sure if this is exactly what I envisioned,” Kristin admits. She knew she was close, and asked herself, “well if THIS is not exactly it, what does IT look like?” That was the first time she remembers making a real change in her career path. Instead of starting from scratch, she asked, “How can I use my journalism skills, which are basic questioning, leadership, writing, and communication skills to do what I want to do future tense.” She knocked on a door and asked about an intern position at the TV station promotions department while she continued journalism school. A year later, she August 2020
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knocked on another door and ended up working at a top 25 TV station in San Diego. She might not have had that opportunity if she was still doing broadcast journalism. Kristin is now Director of Public Affairs for Cox Communications in the Southeast Region. She oversees external media relations, community affairs, and strategic partnerships to drive business development. She has worked in media for over 25 years in Pensacola, Atlanta, and San Diego. It took a lot of pivoting to get to where she is now. At Cox, she started in media research and quickly evolved to marketing, public affairs, and communication. She appreciates the opportunities of being at a larger company that has a lot of job variety and flexibility. "But sometimes," she says, "you have to create that yourself." She encourages to “see how the trends are going and adjust on a personal level." Referring to the well-known Wayne Gretzky quote, “Skate to where the puck is going to be, not where it has been,” she advises, “You have to think about where you see the puck going. I’ve constantly challenged myself to do that.” But she admits, that is not always easy. She credits two consistent areas that helped her shift and pivot as elements changed around her – personal branding and building strong relationships. “These are key concepts no matter where you are in your career,” says Kristin, and are internal elements you can enhance no matter the outer circumstances. Personal branding is your strongest asset, whether you have considered it or not, it is how others perceive you. Like how body language speaks for you when you are not talking, personal branding speaks volumes even when you are not physically speaking. How does branding help someone accelerate career progression? PowerfulWomenGulfCoast.com
Kristin says it starts with trusting behaviors. “Your brand is all about people being able to trust you to do what you say you will do, lead people or lead projects in a way that’s going to deliver results. But also, do it in a way that’s energetic and enthusiastic, so that people want to be part of that process.” “For me personally, the things I most like to do are to make a difference, see projects over the finish line and ensure that we are delivering on goals.” She credits collaboration as her go-to tool. “I am of the mindset that more heads are better than one and I know that I don’t have the right answer to every single question, but I know if I pull in enough folks, that a collaborative approach can get us to the right answer.” And then be prepared as things change to get new answers to new questions. Being able to demonstrate these skills has enabled Kristin continued success and longevity with a company that has gone through a lot of change over many years. “Cox, started as a cable company and has evolved into a broadband communication technology company now. Technology companies typically are changing every six to nine months and to stay ahead and succeed you have to demonstrate that you can change every six to nine months and make those pivots when necessary.”
exactly how important branding can be for career advancement. She reflects on the changes she has experienced in her career and encourages, "If your brand is not strong, you are really fighting an uphill battle.” However, if you have a strong brand and you can demonstrate your ability to
One of those critical points was when her HR Vice President asked her to teach a class called Brand Me to the staff. At first, she was confused. She had not done educational training before in her role. She got answers and did the training, not realizing how impactful it would be for her. “This was a blessing in disguise because it gave me a chance to dive into the deep end into personal branding,” says Kristin. The leadership course taught the ins and outs of personal branding, some of which are intuitive, others were an important lesson, but the biggest gain was on 23
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drive results and lead changes, that resonates loudly. A strong personal brand is one part. Kristin encourages to also pair it up with a good network. Whether it is on zoom, over coffee, or a more formal meeting, it is important to build your connections and constantly learn about trends in the market so you can tell where the puck is going. “This is why networking is so important,” she says. If your view is too narrow and focused, you might miss those trends.
in the road and that’s ok. But helping each other get through to the other side is really important. There is so much ambiguity in the world, if we can help each other navigate that, I think that’s a really important skill as well,” Kristin encourages. This is a perfect time to check in with your network and see how they are doing. We are missing the human element. “We can only deal with so much change and so much ambiguity. The more we can bring people along with ‘here’s what we know’ and celebrate and be thankful for, it helps. And yes, there are a lot of things we may not like or may not appreciate, but let’s get through them together.”
Kristin encourages early in a career to become good at problem-solving and she appreciates being able to turn to her network to find solutions. If We know that our worlds will change you have a problem, become good at finding out who might have an answer again. Our careers and businesses to help you solve this problem. Instead will change. And we will need to adapt again. Even in the middle of a of who you know, it might be more of knowing who knows what. The more pandemic where so much of the future you are connected deeply with your is uncertain, you can work on knowing yourself and knowing your brand. network, the more opportunity for If you are in a spot you don't want to solutions within your network. – Michelle Salzman, Owner, Salz be in, for instance, theStudio pandemic has displaced you, affected your business, She is also a resource for her you are a graduating senior and not connections and loves to help them find answers when they are stuck. sure now what to do, "You can focus on what's in your control. You can be She admits the last months since the pandemic have not been easy. "It's a thinking of how you can pivot, work lot. As each of us helps our neighbor, on building skills, and building your our friend, our coworkers each network," says Kristin. It is always a manage through it, it is important good time to look at the trends and be to maintain a really encouraging ready to skate in a different direction disposition. We will all have bumps if needed.
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Meet Vasavi! Keynote Speaker for the Pursue Your Passion 2020 Conference By By Kolleen Edwards Chesley ok with walking alone when that is what she needs, and positive ways to turn her chronic dissatisfaction into drive.
Ever since she can remember, Vasavi Kumar has been relentless to find her own voice and access the freedom of her spirit. A firstgeneration Indian American, she grew up in a traditional Hindu household on Long Island, New York. Living and going to school in a predominantly all-White town, she struggled with figuring out her own unique identity, the mental heartache of bullying, and shame from outshining the other students in her class due to her strict upbringing and focus on academics. Back then, she longed for acceptance, and believed that she had to dumb herself down to fit in and be welcomed into social circles. Education being vitally important, Vasavi holds dual master’s degrees in Special Education from Hofstra University and Social Work from Columbia University. She was the Co-Host of Studio 512, a lifestyle and entertainment morning show in Austin, TX and was featured in The Wall Street Journal, FOX, VH1, and was a regular on NBC’s Kansas City Live as the “Keepin’ It Real Guru.” August 2020
She pushed past the barriers of her youth and was building her $100k plus business as a coach and Licensed therapist. She looked spotless on paper. She appeared like what so many women aspire to be – she had it all and was doing it all. What she quickly came to realize was that as well as she looked on the outside, she was crumbling on the inside. She was not happy with herself and she was using everything on the outside to cover up who she was on the inside. Her journey after that point included realizing and tackling her own mental illness, going through a divorce, and admitting her own addiction to drugs and alcohol, going through recovery, taking a step back with a relapse and then going through recovery again. She took her recovery on the inside as seriously as she had focused in the past on her skills on the outside. Her mental healing included really learning about her own self and being comfortable with the woman she was and is. She learned lessons of how to love who she is and connecting with that woman, being 26
“I believe that when you know yourself, you can do, be, and have anything you want,” says Vasavi. She gives this advice to anyone going through this journey: “As YOU grow through what you go through, don’t forget to check in with yourself. Keep getting to know you. In order for me to be in the present, I had to be honest about the evolution of self. I’ve learned that my own missteps and wrong turns don’t break my love of self. You have the power to overcome your rock bottom moments successfully and come out the other side stronger.” Her journey is still evolving as she continues to step forth into her fullest self-expression, she is laser focused to help other women overcome life obstacles to create new heights of success. Her story, authenticity, and determination captivated us, and her solutions will help us all. How many of us have been there? How many of us are struggling right now, possibly looking perfect on the outside but hiding from yourself on the inside? The challenges of 2020 have rocked all our worlds. Now, it is time to move forward, positively and adapt. “I want you to know that you are never BY YOURSELF when you are WITH YOURSELF. When you develop a relationship with the most important person in your life (you), you’re never PowerfulWomenGulfCoast.com
alone,” says Vasavi. Vasavi leads the coaching industry with 10 years of experience, and has helped thousands of women who are confused, overwhelmed, and scattered. Her methods are rooted in science and facts, mixed with her passion to help find, and use your voice. Her priority is to share everything she has learned to teach a more mindful, practical, and simple way of running life and business. As an international speaker, speaking from India and across the US, Vasavi will be the keynote speaker for the Pursue Your Passion conference by Powerful Women of the Gulf Coast. This virtual conference is being held on Wednesday and Thursday, October 21st and 22nd, 2020. The conference theme for 2020 is Adapt & Overcome. Adaptation is the ability to recognize unexpected situations, quickly consider various possible responses, and decide on the best one. Adaptative mindsets do not get thrown when the scenario changes, they are divergent thinkers, they think of multiple solutions quickly, they are flexible. In biology, adaptation is a change or the process of change by which an organism or species becomes better suited to its environment. If COVID-19 is your unexpected situation or if it is deeper than that, the quicker we adapt, the stronger we become. Vasavi will help us dig deep into our own stories to bring out our true self. If you would like to learn from Vasavi before the conference, she’s the host of the Being Human with Vasavi Podcast. You can work with and learn from her membership community and one-to-one services at VasaviKumar.com. And if you would like to secure your Pursue Your Passion virtual conference seat so you don’t miss out on Vasavi’s presentation and everything else the 8th annual conference brings, do so at pwconference.org.
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- Kendra Woods, Life Coach
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Our Organization
POWERFUL WOMEN OF THE GULF COAST Kolleen Chesley was a commission-only financial advisor who struggled with finding clients in this male-dominated industry. She didn’t like doing dinner seminars, door-knocking or cold calling to find clients like her male colleagues. Instead, Kolleen found networking over a glass of wine or chatting up business owners in a casual setting really worked for her. This worked wonderfully for her until October of 2004. when Pensacola was hit by a Cat 3 hurricane that left $26 billion of property damage in its wake. Overnight, not only the physical landscape, but the business networking landscape was forever changed. Kolleen didn’t realize how much emotional support networking provided. She met with two other businesswomen for lunch to help motivate each other. They all left that lunch inspired, recharged and ready to get out there and change the world. She didn’t know it at the time, but there was something different about the way women networked and shared information with other women. Out of that lunch in 2004, a not-for-profit was born. Kolleen currently serves full-time as the Founding Director of what was originally called Women’s Business Lunch and is now known as Powerful Women of the Gulf Coast, a community-benefit organization.
Our vision is to be the premier women’s organization for business development and growth. We create an arena for ALL women to come together, celebrate successes, provide actionable training and tools, and encourage collaboration and charitable giving. Through PWGC, our women empower themselves and others towards business success and individual prosperity, therefore changing our community. The organization fulfills this mission and vision in a number of ways, including:
Monthly networking meetings in person or offered online to reinforce relationship building
This quarterly print magazine, full of amazing interviews and content
Power Up leadership classes designed to grow your skills in marketing, networking, business efficiency and sales
Women In Leadership, twice monthly podcast show highlighting some of our members and their businesses
A Pay-It-Forward Book program featuring great leadership books passed from woman to woman to woman
Membership options designed to encourage participation and expose those members to business opportunities
Pursue Your Passion conference offered annually in October to celebrate National Business Women's Week
Scholarship options for members to apply for discounted tickets or membership to other organizations
www.powerfulwomengulfcoast.com
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@PowerfulWomenoftheGulfCoast August 2020
We All Lose Eventually. What Matters Is How We Handle It By Quint Studer
No one goes undefeated. We will all face a disappointment, failure, or some other form of loss at one time or another. How a loss is handled says a great deal about a person. For me, it took longer than I would like to admit to mature to the point where I could handle a loss or disappointment in a more adult way. Now, though, I see how much it matters. How a loss is handled may set you and your company up for something positive in the future.
In looking at expense reductions, we examined the services we were currently spending dollars on to determine what we could stop, decrease, or move in-house. Making such a decision is tough. While it may keep your people employed, it will certainly cause a hardship to the company losing the revenue. I have been involved in these types of decisions over the years on both sides, and I have found that people’s reactions can differ greatly.
When COVID-19 hit, my companies looked for ways to handle the crisis. Like most, we looked at many options: grants that might be available, the steps that could be taken to get funds (loans, selling personal assets, etc.), changes to products and services, and different ways to deliver. We looked at how much cash we had on hand to evaluate how long we could handle closures. And of course, we also considered expense reductions.
One action we took to reduce expenses involved a company called Impact Campaigns. It is owned by Travis Peterson. Travis has worked with us for a number of years. His is a very small company. Thus, reducing what we spent would have a significant impact on his company and family. On the day we gave him the news—along with taking expense reduction steps with a number of other companies—I received a call from Travis. He was calling to say
thank you for the business over these many years and to say if he were in our situation, he would be doing the same thing. I thanked him for the call and understanding. Some weeks later, a project came up. The first person I called to hire for this project was Travis. A major reason was the professionalism he had shown when the decision was made to no longer use his services. The best people and companies tend to get this. The same holds true with a disappointment in a job. Maybe someone else got the promotion you wanted. Or a decision was made to go outside to recruit versus considering you. Or an award or recognition went to someone else. How these situations are handled will set the tone for future success. Not too long ago, Visit Pensacola was hiring a new executive director. The choice came down to two talented people. The job was offered to one
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Pause, pause, pause. I have written before about the power of the pause. Pausing is vital when you experience a loss or disappointment. If you feel you must write something to vent, don’t send it right away. Odds are, in a day or two, you will either not send what you wrote, or you will change the message considerably. Never post a social media attack on the situation. It will have a much bigger downside than upside. Always discuss with the person or organization you are upset with before taking other action. of the final two candidates and was accepted. The finalist who did not get the job was notified. They thanked Visit Pensacola for the experience and then wrote thank-you letters to every person they had interacted with, including the staff. The person who had accepted the job later decided against keeping it due to family considerations. You can guess what happened: Due to the way the other finalist had handled the situation, they got the job offer and are now working for Visit Pensacola. Here are some tips to remember when you don’t get the job, the promotion, or the award; when you lose the project; or when you receive other disappointing news:
Look for ways to be positive. (Don’t be a sore loser.) You will be tempted to complain bitterly or badmouth the company or person you feel let you down. Don’t. If you can be positive when you tell the story, it makes a great impression on others. Graciously say thank you for the past opportunity or the chance to apply. (I very much appreciated the call I got from Travis, and it reinforced my admiration for him.) You might even send a note to the person who got the promotion, job, or award instead of you. Ask yourself: How can I use this loss as an impetus to improve? Many times in my life, I have gotten to the finals then fell just short. Once, after coming in second for an internal promotion, I told the person making
the decision they had made an excellent choice with the person who got the job, and asked what I could do to better my chances the next time an opportunity came up. The subsequent discussion was very helpful to me. Don’t take your ball and leave. I am reminded of the story of a young man who had the only ball for a baseball game. If he did not get his way, he would threaten to leave and take his ball with him. While this behavior is hurtful in business, in my recent work in communities, I’ve found it also separates those communities that thrive from those that don’t. In Pensacola, a group of us thought the best place for a new Y was next to the stadium at the Community Maritime Park. It did not happen. The first reaction was to say, “Forget it, then!” However, while we were disappointed, we continued to help. Another spot was found, and today thousands of people benefit from the new Y. It is so important to keep supporting causes we believe in (especially when they make others’ lives better) even when we don’t get exactly what we want. Sometimes those who do not get their way turn to a referendum. This divides the community even more. It is a case of, “Yes, I lost, and I want you to lose, too.”
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Don’t wish ill will on those you are disappointed with. Years ago, a chief medical officer at a health system was very upset with the decision by corporate to let him go. This is natural. He called me for career advice and to see if I would be a reference. It was clear in each conversation that he was angry. In fact, it was to the point of seeming like he hoped his past employer would not do well—that this would show what a mistake they had made letting him and some others go. So, I asked him if he liked the chief nursing officer at his old place of employment. He said, “Yes, very much.” I kept asking those types of questions. For instance, I asked him, “Do you want the patients to get excellent care?” He said, “Of
August 2020 PowerfulWomenGulfCoast.com
course!” I then said, “If you feel this way, why are you hoping the organization does not do well?” I also shared that my experience is potential employers will feel his anger and it will hurt his effectiveness. These are stressful times. There is so much uncertainty. There is so much disappointment. There is so much opportunity to get on social media and post mean-spirited things. Yet there is also much opportunity to look in the mirror—to see how well we handle disappointments, how we might get better at that, and how we might use tough experiences to learn and grow. How one handles defeat, loss, and disappointment is a good indicator of future success or failure. It’s always best to choose success. And it feels a lot better to respond to
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life’s letdowns with positivity and grace than with bitterness. A saying I like is, “Would you rather be right or happy?” I would rather be happy. No sense of righteous anger is worth your inner peace.
Author Credit: Quint Studer is the founder of the Studer Community Institute and a successful business leader, speaker and author. He is also the entrepreneur-in-residence at the University of West Florida, executivein-residence at George Washington University and a lecturer at Cornell University. His new book, "The Busy Leader's Handbook: How to Lead People and Places That Thrive," is out now.
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Our Powerful Women culture is proudly reflected in each and every one of our programs and events. If you'd like a few of our culture cards mailed to you to incorporate in your daily world, please let us know! directors@powerfulwomengulfcoast.com A special thank you to Dr Lusharon Wiley and Innisfree Hotels
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