“No better time for your shine; you’re a star.” ⭐️ ~Alessia Cara

your perspective matters... (#338)

Earlier this week, I spoke on a panel focused on black tech entrepreneurs for a local community college.  Immediately after meeting my fellow panelists, CEOs, and Founders of startups and nonprofits, I wondered what little-ole-me-with-her-side-hustle could add to the conversation.

Ever had those moments? 🤔

My impostor syndrome shot up to 100/10; luckily, a friend reminded me that my perspective would be valuable in this case. And that “my difference was my differentiator” (thanks Brandy!)

I encouraged folks to carve out some of their high-energy time to build their dreams, even if it’s 30 minutes to start. Slow moves are still moves, after all.

I presented side hustles as an option for those who felt like they couldn’t “step out on faith”.

When asked about “making it, " I shared that I don’t know if I will ever “make it, " but I love celebrating the baby steps and tiny wins I accomplish. And knowing that sometimes my best looks different.

Afterward, one person reached out because she liked what I said:

Your perspective truly resonated with me, and your passion struck me for empowering individuals to pursue their tech aspirations while maintaining stability in their current roles. Your journey and expertise are both impressive and inspirational.

Well, whaddya know. Little ole me did good.

Morgan Harper Nichols said: “This world needs your voice. Your courage. Your stories.”

Even when you feel there is nothing you can add to the conversation. Even when it seems like someone else is better suited. Even when your inner voice thinks you’re an impostor. Your experiences and perspectives matter.

This week, I made a difference for at least one person.

You can, too.

On to the picks!

P.S. I am looking for more opportunities to speak and share my story. Please keep me in mind if you need a speaker or if you have any referrals. I can do talks on productivity, technology, entrepreneurship, self-care, and careers.

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Note: This email may contain affiliate links. If you click through my link and make a purchase, I may receive “thank you money” at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products that I use and love.  

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#loves 😍

• 🏋🏾‍♀️. App: Wakeout. When this iPhone app first came out, I loved that it was a way to exercise in your pajamas and actually some exercises you could do from bed! With quick 30-second sessions, you can easily fit in exercise when you have limited time. It is a great way to get movement throughout the day and can also reduce back/neck pain, prevent eye strain, and fight burnout. Every little bit helps, right?
  

• 🎧. Listening: Side Hustla! playlist. I made this playlist of upbeat and inspirational songs for us to work (and dance in your chair) to. Today’s subject line was inspired by Scars To Your Beautiful:

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#reads

7 Ways Your Side Hustle Can Supercharge Your Day Job

Kelly Nash is a fellow side hustler kindred spirit. She talks about the benefits of a side hustle. My faves:

• Increased network (having a side hustle has introduced me to so many new people I wouldn’t have met otherwise)

• Improved confidence (I run a thing that I created! It does wonders for my self-confidence)

• Better time management (juggling the side hustle + day job + life forces you to be a productivity ninja!)

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Hidden calendar events

If these images aren’t the truth.

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#icymi

• 😍. Last issue’s top pick: 15 Ideas You Can Steal to Make the Next 12 Months a Period of Remarkable Growth (3rd week in a row!)
  

• 💡. Need some inspiration/advice? Grab a mini pep talk.

• 💬. Side Hustle Convos: Learn from others who have started successful businesses and are juggling it with their day jobs.

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#classifieds 🗞

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#lifevibes

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supporters ☕️

Thank you, Gia, Lori, Ayana, Krista, Jessica, Annetta, Constance, Tunde, Jen, Michelle, Emile, Bex, Kim, Angela G., Lauren B., Chelsea, Amy, Ricky, Kirsten, Vin, Julie, Nicole, Hmza, Greg, Kristin, Kirstyn, Jess, Cheryl, Krysta, Adrena, Vidya, Kristyn, Danielle, Keryn, Terry, Vanessa, Meredith, Lauren, Meg, Maria J., Chivon, Kim, Luciano, Colie, Chasity, Laurie, Latienda, Collette, Anne, Kristen, Liz, Katherine, Monale, Betsy, Melissa, Lindsay, Jennifer, Kayla, Madison, Rae, Stephanie, Christine R., Christine M., Frances, Hannah, Chris, Brandy, Mea, Kristian, Maria K. Avery, Adam, Barbara, Shenee, Desiree, Lisa, Kandice, L’Oreal, and LaVerne for being #jesspicks supporters!! ❤️

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