Serendipity

I recently gave a presentation to share about and promote my business, Embody Your Element. During that call, I shared how I accidentally started this business.

I was typed as a Fire (in the system of typing that I use based on the elements) just over two years ago when I attended a speakers conference to support a friend and inadvertently, accidentally became a speaker. When the image consultant at that event told me that I’m a Fire, I told her she was wrong. I didn’t resonate with those characteristics, I didn’t like those colors, and I definitely had no intention of wearing them.

I told her I’d wear the colors for a week to prove her wrong. Only, I failed. That’s one of very, very few times that I set out to prove someone wrong and didn’t succeed. The ironic thing is that she knew she was right when I set out to prove her wrong. (Because Fires are a bit rebellious, feisty, and daring.)

She noticed that I had an eye for seeing the colors and how they fit (or didn’t fit) with the other women when she took a large group of us shopping. That led to her extending the offer to train me to type people in this system as well. I had no interest in that, as I was focused on my writing.

After several people that I sent to her went through similar transformations as I did, I decided it would be cost effective to get trained, just to help friends and family. Then I had an opportunity to present the business.

I figured I should at least make my investment back (for being trained and certified). My voice shook a little when I once again took the stage. This time I had a clear intention and purpose. I was presenting to some huge names in the industry to explain my business and ask them to promote my services to their mailing lists.

Perhaps I should also explain that the company hosting the event was my biggest client for behind the scenes work. I was working that event, as well as participating as a contestant in this huge event (“Shark Attack”). There weren’t a ton of entries for a position as a contestant, so the owners said I could apply, but I better be good if I do. And if I made it, I really better be great.

Did I mention that my mother played a huge role as the coach to the contestants? Which meant even more pressure to be perfect. Oh yeah, and the “runner ups” were sitting right behind me as the event started.

I totally flubbed. Right when I was attempting to tell the “sharks” how much confidence I had gained since I went through the typing process. I did make light of it, sharing, “Not that you’d know that right now.”

It wasn’t really a confidence thing, but a nerve thing. I felt so much pressure (self-induced) to be perfect and tried to recall my two minute presentation word for word…and lost all my words. The author/writer in me found the timing to be humorous and ironic. The image consultant in me cringed.

I did recover, especially during the 15 minute Q&A portion that came after the presentation. However, I was still so mad at myself. I felt like I failed myself, my mother, my clients, and their company.

Right after the event and the following day, everyone who saw my presentation approached me to ask me questions, congratulate me on a job well done, and tell me how courageous I was for even getting up there. One of my teammates asked me why they hadn’t heard about my new business and how I expected to grow if it was a secret.

A few people hired me during that event. Quite a few others told me how inspiring I was and I got to share a few words that seemed to mean a lot to them. That’s when I knew this business wasn’t just a fluke to recover my investment, but a purpose I get to fulfill.

This business allows me to help spread positive views, thoughts, and help others step into who they are with absolute confidence, no matter where they are in their journey. (By the way, studies show that people who work with an image consultant make an average of 30% more than their counterparts.)

A few weeks later I was filling my mentor in on how the event went. Somehow, something else came up in the conversation. I won first place in the state of California in a club called DECA for Fashion Merchandising. I had completely forgotten about that. In addition, I designed a clothing line in my fashion class.

I also shared that story on my Masterclass call. One of the attendees wrote “Serendipity” in the chat. As I reflected, I’d have to agree. My background in design, fashion, and psychology all come together in a beautiful way to allow me to help others show up as their best selves, from the inside out.

I truly believe that we are all our own masterpieces. My job is to find the right frame that allows you to shine as the masterpiece so you can convey the message, energy, and output that you desire.

All these things over the last few decades have been like breadcrumbs on the trail to this moment. I am so honored to get to work with some amazing speakers, authors, coaches, professionals, and other experts.

The best part of this is that I get to spread an important message from my heart. You are perfectly worthy of all of your love right where you are today. You are beautiful, and so very worthy. Please love yourself like your life depends on it, because it truly does.