Meet Lyrical

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Lyrical. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Lyrical below.

Lyrical, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
Oh wow, this has been quite an experience for me. I’ve experienced racism, sexism, ageism, and so much more. One thing I remember is watching my mom be the only Black woman in the room and watching her kill it! I watched her display tremendous strength and prove to the world she deserved her spot and that’s what I remember. I’m meant to be here no matter who is like me or not, the space I occupy in the room is mine alone and I don’t run for that challenge. I embrace that challenge and make room for others who do look like me.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
The real question is what don’t I do lol. For starters I’m an artist, a hip hop artist, I create music, experiences through music. I own a few businesses, one being Shanta Hair Beauty Fashion. I’m an author I’ve written ebooks one of which landed on Amazon’s bestseller list. I recently completed real estate school and will be starting my journey as a real estate agent. I still do work in the tech sector, I do it all! My most prized purpose comes from being a mother. I’m home schooling my kiddos and its rewarding to be such a crucial part of their learning and guidance. The new studio will be up and running soon and I can’t wait to share some of this new music with you all!

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I would say one of my most important qualities is my confidence. It gives me the push I need to keep going when I’m feeling less determined, and the guts to try new things. It allows me to move on faith and believe in myself that I can accomplish anything. I can say one of my most important skills is communication. Knowing how to communicate verbally, in written form and more is allows me to foster amazing relationships, build successful businesses, have control over my career and life journey, and teach others along the way. It is my most valued tool. When it comes to knowledge, your girl is a true business enthusiast! I’ve always been a smarty pants but the things I learn daily, apply, and then teach others, has allowed me to experience such positive outcomes on this journey, allows me to control my destiny. Knowledge is power.

The advice I would give to others on how to develop these qualities or skills would be to do a self assessment exercise. Look at yourself, be honest, write down your strengths and opportunities for improvement. Be around people who excel in areas you can improve in, be humble and open minded, learn, and adapt. Most of all, keep trying.

Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
You know, I have been battling with a little depression and anxiety over the last year or two. I found out I have Lupus and Sjogren’s Syndrome. To cope with being overwhelmed, I have been in therapy, it really helps. I take time away from the world, social media, even friends and family when I need a break. Self care is so important and sometimes I need my space, I need sleep, rest, mental calm, creativity. I pour my heart out in my music and use my pen and paper as my therapy. Getting my nails done, hair done, looking and feeling real cute helps lol, Look Good, Feel Good, Do Better is my slogan for Shanta Hair Beauty Fashion! I just go within and breathe and just be in the moment of life for a minute. I spend time with the family, pets, having fun, being grounded, just appreciating life.

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Image Credits
Jaden Harper Alex Hudson Lanesia Harper

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