positivity

The Expectation of Positivity

April 30, 2020

This was an article written for LinkedIn at the start of the year, but it’s a little reminder to stay positive in the midst of everything.

Someone asked me earlier in the year, if I subscribe to making New Year’s resolutions and my answer was, “No, I have none.” What!? Yes, of course I have goals and things I’d like to see achieved this year and every year, but I have not put the undue stress of resolutions on myself. My sole focus, no matter what happens, is to think POSITIVE! That may be cliché but I think it’s a necessary art. Being in a consistent state of positivity takes effort and maturity, especially when things don’t go the way you think they should.

Let me be the example, from a career-oriented perspective. I’ve had many great opportunities in my life and career. Some of them, at times did not make me happy, as I thought they should. It was during these times my attitude changed, I shut down, talked to my work friends daily rehashing negative thoughts, and gave the proverbial “silent treatment” to my employer so they would recognize how unhappy I was and do something about it. What I thought was keeping to myself, made me stand out as not a team player, a negative contributor, and a follower not a leader. This my friends is not the answer…

As I look back over my career, I missed out on some things because I did not have a positive outlook in the moment. I realized that sometimes in the midst of chaos and uncomfortable spots, if you have an attitude of positivity it can change the outcome for the better. It’s very hard to do that when you are dealing with challenging people and situations but positivity is a must have. It’s an intrinsic characteristic that makes you the best version of yourself.

In this year of 2020, I challenge you to lead with positivity and have the expectation of it at every turn.

-The Recruiter

Style Resume Feature: Lakika “Shay” Scott

March 9, 2017

I look forward to days like this where I can highlight and share such wonderful and inspiring people. Joining us in the salon today is Lakika “Shay” Scott, a Compliance Executive and a Designer. As a business professional and creative, she is determined to incorporate her skill set and professional experiences into future business endeavors. In 2014, Lakika created her own brand of socks and accessories called, Shoobangz. During which she’s also managed to maintain leadership positions in the corporate world. Lakika has showcased her designs in various fashion shows and participated as a vendor in small business showcases. Most notably, Lakika was able to participate as a volunteer in Nashville Fashion Week. This experience showed her two things; forecasting fashion is a must and the fashion business is extremely competitive and as tough as it comes! Lakika considers herself to be a student of fashion in the sense that she’s committed the past few years, gaining experience in almost every aspect of the fashion industry. As an artist/creative/designer, her personal style reflects her unique personality, but more importantly embodies individualism. Let’s learn a little more about this corporate and style leader.

Experience:

What is your current occupation and how long have you been in your career?

I am a Contractor Compliance Specialist for the State of Tennessee’s Healthcare and Finance Administration. I have been in this role for almost three years. I am a part of a very small team that oversees the Service Center Contract for TennCare. I serve more specifically as a Liaison between business units, because of my ability to build and endure business relationships. I also ensure the Contractor remains compliant per the contractual agreement on behalf of the State of Tennessee. All the while, I am a designer (Shoobangz) and a fashion student, as I am currently enrolled as a student at the Sewing Training Academy (Nashville, TN) to learn more apparel design techniques.

Education:

Where did your style originate and who or what are some of your influences?

My very unique, but chic style originates from my love of the arts. I was an artist long before I was interested in fashion. As an artist, I love the use of color which can be used to express moods and movement. So, years ago when my friend finally convinced me to wear heels, I was immediately drawn to brands like Dollhouse (shoes) and Betsy Johnson style apparel, because of their vibrant colors and funky style. I’ve since evolved and become inspired by the sophisticated style of artist/actress, Janelle Monae.

References:

Who are some of your favorite designers? What stores do you prefer to shop?

My favorite apparel designer is Christian Siriano, known for his intricately designed red carpet dresses. His attention to detail and flare is impeccable and inspiring. I am inspired by shoe designers, Manolo Blahnik and newcomer Christopher Coy. This may come as a surprise, but I am an avid thrift store shopper. Small vintage boutiques are my newest interest and my loyalty currently belongs to Trendy Pieces Boutique downtown Murfreesboro.

Career, Beauty and Style:

Do you think personal style is important as it relates to your work? If so, how?

Personal style is an extremely important aspect of our lives, and work is no exception. We spend a significant time at work and although the enforcement of dress code policies may restrict some aspects of style, it doesn’t take away the ability to have style. There are currently too many cutting edge options in professional attire for one not to take advantage and find their style niche in the workplace.

How would you personally define the word beauty?

My definition of beauty is freedom of expression. Outer beauty is extremely subjective, but a confident woman, wearing whatever she wants, with a soul that radiates through her pores is undeniably beautiful. Whether she is wearing a bathrobe or a snow suit, she will shine and her outer garments become accessories.

If you had a dream career/occupation what would it be?

My dream career would be in Fashion Forecasting. I am fascinated with the unpredictability of fashion trends and I would love to be a part of the industry that determines and projects the next trend or style.

What’s the best advice you could give someone seeking a new career?

When seeking a new career, I would advise seeking positions with advancement and growth opportunities. We are all good at certain things, but we were all once beginners. We tend to seek positions that are comfortable and similar to our previous experiences. However, sometimes it is that unlikely role or position that grows and develops us. Years ago, I would’ve never imagined overseeing a project/contract. I had to be open to new things and understand the job market is continuously changing, so you must adapt and grow with it.

Quote that keeps you motivated:

My favorite quote:

“Bloom where you are planted”

Where to find Lakika:

Shoobangz

Instagram/Shoobangz

Facebook/Shoobangz

If it doesn’t fit…

January 3, 2017

Happy New Year!!! Glad to be back in the saddle again. I took a much needed break over the holidays and I’m back! While relaxing and catching up on movies, shows, and documentaries, I watched for the second time, OJ: Made in America. I remember vividly, the actual trial while in high school. One of the most prominent figures of that controversial trial was, Johnnie Cochran. This is not a post to share my specific opinion on the events of the crime, trial, or outcome. I want to specifically focus on the sound bite of Johnnie Cochran.

The most contentious part of the trial, was the famous closing statement of the defense namely, Johnnie. If it doesn’t fit, you must acquit…I remember it like it was yesterday. I want to take that statement out of the vile context of a criminal trial and use it for impact for what I’m about to say. It’s a new year AGAIN and most Americans are still unhappy with their work. How much time must you waste to pursue your passion and do the work that makes you happy and fulfilled?

I want to encourage all of you, “If it doesn’t fit, you must acquit,” Johnnie Cochran. Free yourself from the bondage of just collecting a paycheck. All of my posts to this point have been about how you can skillfully maneuver through your career and techniques on how to maximize your potential and achieve success. It doesn’t matter if you have goals or resolutions if you are not complimenting them with hard work and tenacity. If you don’t see yourself growing, becoming an adequate fit for the company culture, maintaining healthy relationships with clients (internal and external), etc. then it’s about time pursue other avenues. I’m all about making things work and being loyal but loyalty doesn’t stand a chance against a company’s bottom line, insatiably, or misguided leadership.

Typically, I’d have a few key takeaways for next steps. In this case, I just want you to be FREE. What are you going to do to create the path to your purpose and not just collect a paycheck?

Motivational Monday: You Need a Hype Man!

September 19, 2016

scarefest-1

I get so excited when speaking with people about their careers and how to make that next move, I would literally do it for FREE (I’m not, but I would think about it lol). I take my years of experience and knowledge of my craft to help build confidence or “hype” the person up so to speak because hey, we all need a “hype man.” Let me explain who the “hype man” is for the sake of this post.

Typically, in hip hop culture or even sports (i.e. boxing) you have someone or even a group in front of and behind the scenes pumping you up, encouraging you and basically filling in when you need to take a breath. Flavor Flav made his career being a permanent hype man alongside Public Enemy (I know, not the best behavior off the stage but you get my drift). In everyday life we all need influences to lend an ear, speak positive words, and be supportive. When looking for opportunities it can become discouraging because of long timeframes, limited responses, and people telling you no. It’s important to weed out negativity to prevent it from creating a situation of despair. Here are a few recommendations that might help:

Surround yourself with positive and encouraging people
Manage thoughts of negativity and block negative thoughts from others, no exception
Ensure your “hype man” has genuine motives
Create a goal-oriented environment of peace and productivity

We’d love to hear what strategies you use to keep a positive circle in the comments below.