Purpose Leaders: Growing as an influencer (2/2)

Hey,

So I’m finally back with the second part of the Purpose Leaders event I attended back in October, which was London based. If you wasn’t aware, I posted the first part a month ago, which is available for a read here.

Purpose Leaders is a self-built foundation that Andre Spence came up with for BAME influencers – a space for people of colour to come together and share their creativity. Created in a world where we have to build each other up in order to win and succeed in our careers. It was my first time attending and I truly left the building in absolute awe. Surrounding myself with others like myself and hearing their stories on how they overcame challenges that came up, was an inspiration to say the least. I kept on telling my sister (who came with me) that I was glad I didn’t back out of attending, as I was hesitant at first. However, I stepped out of my comfort zone and got myself out there to learn more about the creatives space.

As previously stated, the first part of the Purpose Leaders event focused on the special guest, Sherrie Silver, who shared her career background. She discussed faith, struggles and the different things she learnt along the way in becoming VMA award winning choreographer (click here for more). In this second part, I will be sharing the tips I received from the influencers themselves, on how to stay organised and persevere in your dream career(s). Without further ado let’s get to it…

Throughout the evening, Andre allowed for those outside the panel to ask questions which either the panel or the guests themselves could answer. The question which really struck to me was “How do you stay organised with your hectic schedule?”. This was due to 2 reasons:

1) I’m the most unorganised person and still surprised on how I’ve survived for 22 years being this way hahah.

2) I really wanted to get an insight on how to maintain my blog. I’ve been thinking on how I want this to be a long term hobby for myself and still keep it fun at the same time.

I can say that the panel’s answers were good and well articulated to everyone. It was nice to see them be straight with us and say that yes it is hard, but if you really want it to succeed you’ll actively learn to prioritise. Once you learn to be pro-active in everything you do, they’ll be no reason for you to slack off, as you know the path you’re wanting to take.

“Let your actions speak” – Benedict Mundeke

Following on from the advice above, someone spoke on how you need to focus on the solution that’ll get you to where you want to be. In simpler terms, rather that pinning down on how you can’t get from A to B or how you don’t have the funds to do what you need to, just stop to focus on the solution. Find a way in which you can get from where you are now to where you want to be. Believe it or not but there is always a solution to everything. No matter how big or small the problem ahead of you is. Another tip that was given is to split your days, don’t feel as though you need to do everything all at once. It’s okay to focus on one thing in the morning then changing your pace of work with something else later on. This allows you to remain sane despite the work overload hahah. I say this because your mindset is your most important thing. Don’t allow yourself to feel overwhelmed with everything, take a break if need be, as without a strong mindset you’re less likely to succeed in your passions and career(s).

“The only person that can say it’s too late is the dead because they physically can’t do anything. If you believe it’s your time, then now is your time” – Nissy Tee

The one lesson that I’m happy I managed to walk out with, in this event, was that I shouldn’t take my days for granted. Take charge to go out and grab the opportunities that is available to you. As Nissy said “[t]he only person that can say it’s too late is the dead”. You’re still alive by grace so don’t let it go to waste. If there’s anything that has been holding you back, fight to overcome it and get that blessing of yours!! Because you deserve it! In time, you’ll see the way that your hard work has shaped both your career and surrounding.

If you’re interested to experience this yourself, the next Purpose Leaders event is on 8th December 2018. Follow them on Instagram for more info.

Do you have a passion for anything? Or do you perhaps have something you know you need to work on in order to attain it? Got any tips for people starting up? If so, feel free to share below in the comments.

Yours Truly,

Melanin Talks x