From the Founder: Commitment and Character
Commitment and character.
During the whole month of June, these two words flooded my mind. These concepts have grounded me at the heart of everything I am doing. As days quickly turn into weeks, life can easily feel dry, busy, and disconnected.
I asked myself these questions:
What do commitment and character mean to me? Why are they important? Where do these concepts come into play within work, relationships, and emotional health? How do I implement them in my day-to-day?
As I began to answer these questions, my revelations brought me an unexpected peace.
My answers are the following:
In regards to entrepreneurship, commitment means sustainable growth. It means being loyal to a process or goal, regardless of complications and surprises that come alongside running a business. You are never going to “get there” because it's a journey, not a destination. Cliché I know, but seriously true.
It’s easy to get caught up in “hustle culture” especially when you are an achiever at heart. In June, I replaced the word hustle with commitment. This perspective shift helped me fall in love with entrepreneurship again. There will always be more to do, and the to-do list grows every day. It’s essential to not get overwhelmed by pressure. Listen to your body. Allow your brain waves to enter into the theta state. Intentional rest breeds creativity, motivation and the ability to explore new ideas.
Scientific American has an article about the different functions of brain waves.
The article states, “Individuals who do a lot of freeway driving often get good ideas during those periods when they are in theta. Individuals who run outdoors often are in the state of mental relaxation that is slower than alpha and when in theta, they are prone to a flow of ideas. This can also occur in the shower or tub or even while shaving or brushing your hair. It is a state where tasks become so automatic that you can mentally disengage from them. The ideation that can take place during the theta state is often free flow and occurs without censorship or guilt. It is typically a very positive mental state” (American, 2021).
Currently, commitment within my personal life looks like normalizing things that help me stay healthy and focused. I am committed to growing in my way even if it’s unconventional. I am committed to giving myself more credit than I think I deserve. I have been celebrating personal wins, appreciating my unique journey, and lovingly accepting all of who I am. Overall, I have learned that a commitment to values, goals, and standards builds and shapes character. I never thought of them as twins, but now I can’t see them any other way.
For the July issue, we interviewed several women who are world shakers, industry leaders, and magnets of success. Each one of our brilliant interviewees shares personal insights from their professional pursuits. Their interviews are filled with inspiration and authenticity. The July issue features women who are associated with Netflix, CNN, New York Times, Cosmopolitan, Forbes, and more. Their stories encourage me to commit to my entrepreneurial vision and teach me that in every phase of life I am being shaped for the better.
I wish everyone a great July. I hope July holds sweet memories, laughter, new connections, and limitless opportunities. I encourage you to take risks and stay committed to your vision. I want to hear from you. I want to know how you are doing, how you are growing, and what keeps you committed to your entrepreneurial vision. □
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