My 2016 was eventful. The highs were super exhilarating and the lows belong in a black chick lit screenplay. But overall, 2016 was a good chapter in Sharonda’s book of life.
For the past 5 years, I’ve taken my cue from Susan Conway and completed my Unraveling the Year document. My 2016 word was “intentional” and throughout the year, I made sure my actions, in every aspect of my life, connected to that word.
But my energy shifted July 2017 when I attended C2. C2 is the ultimate business conference and retreat for women of color in communications. (Go to the website and see me on the picture reel) :)
I attended the event for my professional development, but never expected to meet a new heroine.
During a panel discussion, Tiffany Smith-Anoa'i spoke about the turning point in her career and for the first time in a long time, I felt that tingly feeling you get when you a new boo sends you that “good morning beautiful” text. She had my full attention!
Tiffany told us about the day she asked herself about her career and her next step. She said the question “What do you really want to do” kept replaying in her head. She wasn’t talking about a job title or figuring out her next place she to work. Tiffany was contemplating what type of work she wanted to do and what legacy she wanted to leave in her industry. She saw a need for a diversity and inclusion executive for entertainment and she worked “relentlessly” to bring that to CBS. Now, she’s the SVP Entertainment Diversity & Communications at CBS Entertainment.
Tiffany closed with this wisdom: “I created my way to the top, not worked my way to the top.” When she said that, I almost rushed the stage to hug her. I refrained though. Getting to the top does not consist of jail.
When I finally was able to get her alone, I told her that her words motivated, inspired and challenged me. I told her I wanted to follow her lead. Tiffany smiled, gave me her business card and said, “Be relentless and do it. Here’s my card if you need help.” (Read more about her work in TIME.)
That conference and conversation replays in my head almost daily. I placed a picture of Tiffany on my vision board at work so I never forget her story and inspiration.
But my energy shifted July 2017 when I attended C2. C2 is the ultimate business conference and retreat for women of color in communications. (Go to the website and see me on the picture reel) :)
I attended the event for my professional development, but never expected to meet a new heroine.
 |
| Tiffany Smith-Anoa'i (the one in glasses) |
Tiffany told us about the day she asked herself about her career and her next step. She said the question “What do you really want to do” kept replaying in her head. She wasn’t talking about a job title or figuring out her next place she to work. Tiffany was contemplating what type of work she wanted to do and what legacy she wanted to leave in her industry. She saw a need for a diversity and inclusion executive for entertainment and she worked “relentlessly” to bring that to CBS. Now, she’s the SVP Entertainment Diversity & Communications at CBS Entertainment.
Tiffany closed with this wisdom: “I created my way to the top, not worked my way to the top.” When she said that, I almost rushed the stage to hug her. I refrained though. Getting to the top does not consist of jail.
When I finally was able to get her alone, I told her that her words motivated, inspired and challenged me. I told her I wanted to follow her lead. Tiffany smiled, gave me her business card and said, “Be relentless and do it. Here’s my card if you need help.” (Read more about her work in TIME.)
That conference and conversation replays in my head almost daily. I placed a picture of Tiffany on my vision board at work so I never forget her story and inspiration.
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| Vision board at work |
So, of course my 2017 word is relentless.
According to Merriam-Webster, relentless means “showing or promising no abatement of severity, intensity, strength, or pace.” I'm going to be a mini-Granniabelle: STRAIGHT, NO CHASER.
I’m going relentlessly pursue the experiences, places and people I care about and relentlessly dismissive of the/things I don’t. It’s a strong word and full of moxie to encourage meaningful results. I’m ready. God used my 2016 to open up doors and I have a feeling that was just the warm up.
What’s your word for 2017?
