Reflections on a Provocative Question: "Dear God, how did I get here?"
One of the simple prayers I wrote in my journal in January 2024 was a loaded question with many answers, not recommended for the faint of heart.
"How did I achieve the status of a prominent, influential leader? Becoming a renowned, globally recognized thought leader?"
The clarity I received was very powerful.
The answer: Seeds were planted, and a charge to keep was given.
I was reminded of the extraordinary Black women leaders who came before me. These women, some of whom I have had the privilege of knowing personally, while others I have learned about, have profoundly shaped my journey.
Ella Baker for her leadership in shaping the civil rights movement in America. Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to the US Congress and the first Black candidate for a major-party presidential nomination. Mary McLeod Bethune, who fought for racial equality through education and public service. Ursula Burns, the first Black woman CEO of a Fortune 500 company, Xerox Corporation. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the first elected female head of state in Africa. Linda Murrain, who showed me how to build a career. The late Kathy Woods, who exemplified bold leadership. And my mother, Dora Chance, who taught me to be a lioness over my own life.
Through their stories, successes, and experiences, these trailblazers planted seeds of wisdom and courage. They left breadcrumbs and lit lamp posts along the path, guiding me and countless others.
Yet, within their stories, there was something more—a profound responsibility. I realized that these women had given me a charge to keep. Their legacy is not just a testament to their resilience and achievements, but also a call to action for me and you.
And that charge, my friends, is fierce ambition.
Fierce ambition is not just about personal success; it is a relentless pursuit of goals, fueled by passion and an unwavering commitment to excellence. It thrives in the face of challenges, transforming obstacles into opportunities for growth and innovation.
For us, as Black women leaders, fierce ambition also carries a sense of responsibility. It is about striving not just for our own success, but for the empowerment and advancement of our communities. It means lifting as we climb, ensuring that our achievements pave the way for others to follow.
But what else is fierce ambition? It’s more than just a drive for success—it’s a force of transformation. It is disruptive, challenging the status quo and breaking through barriers that have long held us back. It’s innovative, constantly pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities that others might overlook. Fierce ambition is also inspiring; it motivates us to pursue our dreams with relentless passion and encourages those around us to do the same.
At times, fierce ambition can be scary. It demands courage to step out of our comfort zones and confront the unknown. However, when harnessed effectively, it becomes a source of healing, allowing us to overcome past wounds and build a better future. It is collaborative, recognizing that great achievements are rarely accomplished alone but through collective effort and shared vision. Fierce ambition is transformative, leading to profound changes not only in our own lives but also in the communities and industries we touch. It is refreshing, bringing new perspectives and energy to every endeavor. Ultimately, it is empowering, giving us the strength to claim our space, assert our value, and drive meaningful change.
Maya Angelou once said, “Some of us are timid. We think we have something to lose so we don’t try for that next hill.”
So what am I charging each of you to do?
Embrace Your Fierce Ambition
Another quote by Maya Angelou is relevant to this discussion: "I've discovered that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw something back."
In essence, she suggests life isn’t just about accumulating experiences, resources, or opportunities. It’s also about actively engaging, giving back, and making a positive impact. Having a "catcher’s mitt" on both hands represents a passive approach, while being able to "throw something back" means actively sharing your experiences, knowledge, and resources with others.
Mastering the Art of Ambition: Five Powerful Strategies
Declare Your Next Move: Ladies, it’s time to take ownership of our career paths and futures. Identify your next role, impact, or position and confidently declare it. Don’t wait for permission or validation from others. Your journey is yours to shape.
Curate Your Narrative: Be vocal about your skills, talents, and accomplishments. Actively communicate how your experiences and capabilities prepare you for your next challenge. Share your story authentically and proudly. Remember, if you don’t tell your story, someone else will, and they might not get it right.
Use Your Voice with Purpose: Identify what is most important to you—your purpose and mission—and use your voice to advocate for it. Engage in conversations, write about your passions, and participate in initiatives that align with your values. Your voice is powerful, so let it be heard.
Foster Economic Prosperity: Actively seek opportunities for economic growth and success, not only for yourself but also for those around you. Support and mentor others, invest in community initiatives, and strive for collective economic empowerment. When we lift each other up, we all rise.
Embrace Boldness and Vision: Be unapologetically bold and visionary in your pursuits. Set ambitious goals, take calculated risks, and innovate fearlessly. Lead with integrity and authenticity, inspiring others to follow your example. Bold visions create bold realities.
Fierce ambition is our rallying cry and a promise to ourselves and the trailblazers before us. It's a testament to our strength, resilience, and unyielding drive to make a difference. As we move forward, let's embrace this fierce ambition with pride and purpose. Let's transform our dreams into reality and pave the way for future generations of Black women leaders. It's our time to shine, lead, and inspire.
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