We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Charlisa Harris . We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Charlisa below.
Charlisa, thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?
“Where did you get your resilience from?” It’s a question I’ve been asked countless times throughout my life, and each time I reflect on my journey, I’m reminded of the winding road that brought me here. My story isn’t one of unending hardship or perpetual suffering, but rather a testament to the incredible strength that can emerge from the darkest of places.
My journey began with a childhood marred by trauma. I experienced things no child should ever have to endure – molestation, violence, and the heartbreaking loss of loved ones. These early experiences left deep scars, and for a long time, I struggled to make sense of the pain that seemed to define my existence.
As I entered my teenage years, life took an unexpected turn. At the tender age of 17, I found myself facing the daunting reality of single motherhood. At 21, I was in the same position once again. The weight of responsibility was heavy, and the road ahead seemed fraught with obstacles. Many would have given up, but I was determined to find a way forward.
In the midst of adversity, I decided to pursue a career in cosmetology. It wasn’t an easy path, balancing motherhood and the demands of school, but I was fueled by a burning desire to create a better life for myself and my children. I poured my heart and soul into my studies, determined to build a brighter future.
Two years after graduating from beauty school, I opened my own salon. It was a dream come true, but it didn’t come without its own set of challenges. Life had one more curveball to throw at me – a special needs child who arrived just before I opened my salon. The journey had been relentless, but through it all, I had cultivated a resilience that I could rely on.
So, where did I get my resilience from? I got it from those dark days of my childhood, from the moments when I felt the weight of the world on my shoulders as a teenage mother, and from the determination to build a better life. I got it from every setback, every tear shed, and every obstacle overcome. I got it from the love and support of my children, who reminded me every day that I couldn’t afford to give up.
Resilience, I’ve come to realize, isn’t a magical trait that some people are born with. It’s a quality that we can all cultivate, often through the trials and tribulations that life throws our way. It’s born out of necessity, a survival instinct that propels us forward when we feel like we can’t take another step.
My journey has been marked by hardships, but it’s also been illuminated by blessings. I’ve learned that life has a unique way of balancing the scales – for every challenge I faced, there was a moment of joy, for every tear, there was a smile. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without those trials, without the resilience that emerged from them.
So, when people ask me where I got my resilience from, I tell them it’s a gift from life itself. It’s the sum of all my experiences, both painful and beautiful. It’s a reminder that no matter what we face, we have the strength within us to keep moving forward, to overcome, and to create a better future. My journey is a testament to the power of resilience, and I hope it serves as an inspiration to others who may be facing their own challenges.
With Love,
Charlisa
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I pursued cosmetology at age 16, initially as a passionate interest, and then took it up professionally a decade later. This journey has been incredibly fulfilling for me, especially because I am deeply fascinated by transformations. There’s something magical about helping someone rediscover their beauty and confidence through their hair.
My specialization lies in services that create stunning before and after results. I am particularly skilled in chemical texture changing services, silk presses, and extensions. These techniques not only transform the hair but also uplift the spirits of my clients. Witnessing their joy and surprise when they see the final results is beyond rewarding.
For me, it’s not just about a hairstyle; it’s about helping people fall in love with their hair and showing them what their hair is capable of. This journey of self-love and confidence through hair care is what drives my passion.
I’m also incredibly excited about the upcoming events in my career. The most thrilling is the rebranding and relaunch of Mylani Vegan Haircare products, scheduled for February 2024. This line is particularly close to my heart as it aligns with my values of sustainability and cruelty-free beauty. These vegan haircare essentials are formulated to nourish and enhance hair health, reflecting my commitment to holistic beauty and wellness.
I believe that everyone deserves to feel beautiful and confident, and through Mylani Vegan Haircare and my styling services, I aim to make this a reality for as many people as possible. I want my brand to be synonymous with transformative beauty experiences that are both kind to the individual and the planet.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my journey, the three pivotal qualities that have significantly shaped my path in the competitive field of cosmetology are Focus, Determination, and Extreme Confidence.
1. Focus: In an industry buzzing with talent and creativity, it’s easy to get sidetracked by others’ achievements. However, maintaining a laser-sharp focus on your goals and aspirations is crucial. This focus has helped me navigate through the noise and distractions, allowing me to concentrate on honing my skills and building my brand.
2. Determination: This industry is not for the faint-hearted. Determination has been my anchor through challenging times. There will always be setbacks and obstacles, but a determined mindset helps you overcome these hurdles and propels you forward.
3. Extreme Confidence: Confidence is key, especially in a field as personal and visible as cosmetology. Believing in your abilities and having an unwavering faith in yourself is essential. This confidence not only elevates your work but also instills trust in your clients.
My advice for those starting their journey is twofold:
-Never Stop Learning: The moment you think you know everything is the moment you stop growing. Our industry is constantly evolving, with new techniques and trends emerging regularly. Stay curious, keep learning, and be open to new ideas. This will not only improve your skills but also keep you relevant and innovative.
– Always Bet on Yourself: You can’t lose if you trust in your abilities and take calculated risks. Believe in your vision and work tirelessly towards it. Your unique perspective and skills are your biggest assets. Nurture them, and don’t be afraid to showcase them to the world.
Remember, success in cosmetology is not just about skill; it’s equally about mindset. With focus, determination, and confidence, coupled with continuous learning and self-belief, you are setting yourself up for a fulfilling and successful career.
What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?
Over the past 12 months, my most significant area of growth has been learning to “get out of my own way.” This journey of self-improvement involved understanding the importance of seeking advice from others and acknowledging that there are many things I don’t know.
Initially, like many driven individuals, I tended to rely solely on my own judgment and abilities. This approach, while often effective, limited my perspective and growth opportunities. The realization that I don’t have all the answers was both humbling and liberating. It opened up a world where collaboration, mentorship, and learning from others became vital components of my personal and professional development.
This shift in mindset allowed me to embrace a more holistic approach to problem-solving and decision-making. By valuing the insights and experiences of others, I’ve been able to broaden my understanding and enhance my skills in ways I couldn’t have achieved alone.
Moreover, this process of “getting out of my own way” has not only been about accepting external advice but also about overcoming internal barriers. It involved challenging my preconceptions, confronting my ego, and being open to change and new ideas. This has been instrumental in my growth, allowing me to evolve continuously and adapt in an ever-changing industry.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mylanibeauty.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/mylaniveganhaircare
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/mylanibeauty
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCT-jzQ-eKdKiy1yqzPy_QFQ
Image Credits
Kelli McIntosh Photography
