In July 2021, I took some time to define my core business values as an entrepreneur and it helped me frame the most important parts of my business.

I use these core values as a guiding light for tiny and monumental business decisions. I try to revisit them every 6 months and make a point to talk about them frequently on my social networks and when interacting with clients. 

In no particular order, here are my core business values!

Joy:

DEI work often is exhausting and hard to facilitate due to resistance and my own mental health struggles, but finding my own pockets of joy in business and life helps me keep going. 

How I practice joy: I love taking walks, spending time with friends and catching up on my reality TV shows. Joy looks like spending a slow morning with my youngest child, trying a new restaurant and laughing with my partner. 

Gutsiness:

I enjoy taking chances, living authentically, and expressing myself boldly. That takes courage, grit and gutsiness. I love working and collaborating with like-minded leaders who have the same mindset.

How I encourage gutsiness: I wear bold lipstick and I love a good leopard print top! I take chances when creating content and encourage my clients to be fearless when expressing their true authentic self. I try to take *calculated* risks by speaking my mind, and acting with integrity through tough situations. 

Self-Care + Balance:

A well-rested and balanced consultant is a high-performing consultant, so I prioritize all opportunities to rest and recoup. Self-care is the center of my business because without boundaries, wellness is compromised. 

How I practice self-care and balance: I work a schedule that is very unique to my needs, which includes slow mornings and afternoons with my children. I say no to all business opportunities that disrespect my boundaries and expect “urgent” responses for non-urgent matters. We rest and don’t rush the process! 

Being a forever student:

Life is always teaching us something new and it is my job to be an eternal student. I truly believe that when you stop learning, you stop growing. I don’t claim to have all the answers, but I promise to learn along the way.

How I commit to being a forever learner: In 2021, I invested in becoming a certified DEI practitioner because I understand that I didn’t know it all and it was valuable to learn from a more seasoned DEI consultant. Every few months I take new courses on inclusion, diversity and dive deeper into learning about systemic oppression. I also plan to learn more about psychological safety and biases.

Inclusion + Community:

Community has fueled me when I have been low on resources, motivation and purpose. I use my business as a vessel to give back to my community and to create more inclusive environments.

My commitment to community: This year I am excited to volunteer in-person with at-risk youth and help be a voice of change in my community. In my online communities, I plan to keep on collaborating with other creators and clients who share similar values and are committed to creating an anti-racist world!

Phewww, that was a lot! I am excited to keep sharing my values and using them as the foundation of my business. 

Tell me – have you defined your business values for 2022? I would love to hear them!