Meet Demi Howell

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Demi Howell. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Demi , so great to have you sharing your thoughts and wisdom with our readers and so let’s jump right into one of our favorite topics – empathy. We think a lack of empathy is at the heart of so many issues the world is struggling with and so our hope is to contribute to an environment that fosters the development of empathy. Along those lines, we’d love to hear your thoughts around where your empathy comes from?
The conditions that allowed me to develop empathy was my ability to look within. Empathy, which I believe, there’s a lack of, is what we need the most. Human nature, human error allowed me to develop empathy. The ability to let my ego dissipate is what allowed me to develop empathy. My losses, disappointments, and failures is what allowed me to develop empathy. I had to understand that people are human. And humans make mistakes just like me. I am them and they are me. I had to learn to stop judging others without looking at my own story. Without empathy, the world is a cold cold place.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I’m the co-founder of Truth Youniversity where my title is Pivot Practitioner. After being an entrepreneur for the last 25+ years and living in the “Hustle” culture the entire time, my mission is to assist entrepreneurs in pivoting into peace by taking my W.I.S.E.R course. My course puts your business/lifestyle in perspective and separates your wants from your needs. Sometimes the wants overpower the needs which can put you in an unstable financial situation. There’s also the matter of losing yourself during the journey. I’ve coached several entrepreneurs that have come to a point where they just couldn’t function in life or business due to the perception of what’s success looks like. They fell into the trap. Success should look and feel authentic. In addition to being the co-founder of Truth Youniversity, I’m the CEO of Haus of Howell. Haus of Howell is a family lifestyle brand. Our products include health/wellness, cosmetics, cookware, and apparel. Our official launch is October. 1st. We’re excited to relaunch the brand!

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back, I think consistency, determination, and being a lynchpin is what was most impactful in my journey. My advice is to be authentic to yourself first. When starting a business, do your research. Understanding your inspiration is key. Now understand, I’m not implying that in the literal sense. I like to use the word inspiration instead of competition. You are your competition. This will keep your headspace in a more positive way. But you should look at brands that may be doing something similar. You need to know what will make your brand stand out. How can you become a lynchpin in your field. Know why you’re branding your business. Make sure you have a budget when starting out. It’s good to have a 5 year business plan but I encourage you to have a 5 year pivot plan. A business plan is a projection. A pivot plan is for protection. You should always be thinking of all outcomes. You may or may not make a million dollars over night. Just know that the glory is in the lessons you learn along the way. Those lessons are priceless. Your lessons are your blessings!

As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
“Truth of the Matter Is” is the book that has played an important role in my development. My favorite chapter is “Concentrated Selfishness”. This chapter spoke on putting myself second and understanding that it’s ok to be selfish. It’s not the selfishness that is harmful to others. It taught me to dissect my needs in life. Our wants are not necessities but they can be assumed to be. It taught me how to say “NO” without feeling guilty. It taught me how important self-care is. Overall, it showed me how to become aligned and in tune with myself. It’s the most fulfilling feeling.

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Image Credits
Photographer: Charles Beason

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