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As we begin to reach new growth milestones for our business, we have a growing realization: Knowing your non-negotiables isn’t just important. It’s essential. Haven’t you made them clear? Well, that’s a straight ticket to dissatisfaction city, but let me tell you, it doesn’t do your success, present or future any favors.
It’s too easy to just leave things as they are. We make excuses to others (and ourselves) and turn a blind eye to the signs that all is not well because losing a client sounds like a nightmare, right? Or perhaps you are so dazzled by what could be that you unknowingly compromise the status quo.
These thoughts have been swirling around in my head ever since I attended the Black Women Power Summit. The stories I heard from amazing women who faced and overcame huge hurdles to reach positions of power really resonated with me.
Here are six non-negotiables from powerful women I and all of us admire that will help you maintain your success and move to the next level.
Related: Empower yourself as a female leader
1. Have uncomfortable conversations right away
Have uncomfortable conversations. I was avoiding them like a pro. But what about facing them head-on? That’s where the magic happens. Most of the time I found myself missing a piece of the puzzle. Whether they changed my perspective or cleared the air, these stories always made me feel lighter and helped me focus on what was important.
2. Wait 24 hours before making emotional decisions.
And this is the rule I am practicing now. If I made a decision on a wave of emotion, I would suspend her 24 hours. It’s amazing how a little time can put things into perspective.
3. Don’t accept anything less than the energy you bring.
Do I accept less than I give? No more. That applies to work and life. It sounds obvious to avoid toxic people, even though we all know deep down that they’re just bringing us drama and draining our energy. Have you ever had someone close to you?
Related: 5 female entrepreneurs share their biggest advice for finding your path to career success
4. Don’t be afraid to ask so you can bring out the best in yourself.
When national talk show host and actress Sherri Shepherd was asked to join Babyface on tour, local glam teams lacked the ability to style women of color. The team couldn’t style the wig and the foundation didn’t match her skin. Can you imagine having to host a large event and looking up at your monitor and getting distracted because the reflection is not up to par?
As women, asking for more than what is offered is often seen as “too much work.” Don’t be afraid to ask for what you need to look your best. And don’t expect them to understand your requests because they aren’t along your path. They are not people who have to show up in your path. your shoes.
5. Understand that work-life balance is a lie
I heard TIAA CEO Southandra Brown Duckett talk about how work-life balance is a lie. Her suggestion is to treat her life like a diverse portfolio. She said that work-life balance is a lie because it never harmonizes. She suggests living her life like a portfolio of diversity. She writes down everything that is important to her and assigns it based on priority. Over time, you will be able to perform better in all areas. Don’t put all your time and energy into one thing. Remember to give yourself grace to readjust your portfolio if necessary.
6. Innovation requires incentives
And then there’s a gem I picked from Ty Randolph, who co-founded Heartbeat Productions with Kevin Hart, and it’s become a mantra for me. She said there has to be something in the company for every occasion. It’s about having the opportunity to build, destroy, and expand things. Innovation must have real motivation.
RELATED: 5 Pioneering Black Women Entrepreneurs Tell Us How They’re Breaking Through Barriers and How You Can Too
To be honest, my non-negotiables are not revolutionary, but since I decided to put them at the forefront, communicate them to my team, and live by them, the difference has been transformative. Ta. These non-negotiables have enabled my company, Society22 PR, to be named to Inc.’s list of Fastest Growing Companies and foster a company culture that exceeds anything I could have dreamed of.
Yes, these reflections on non-negotiables have reshaped my approach to business. It’s not just about setting boundaries. It’s about creating a space where you, your team, and your business can thrive. And let me tell you, the results were pretty amazing.