We recently connected with Dr. Wanita Mercer and have shared our conversation below.
Dr. Wanita, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
Thank you for inviting me to share my story. From a young age, I’ve often found myself as the ‘only one in the room’ with a distinct perspective. This began in my early childhood, where I was the only child in my preschool and kindergarten who saw naps as unnecessary, preferring to engage with teachers or immerse myself in play. This early experience of standing out set the stage for my later years, particularly when I became the only African American girl in my third-grade class in Tennessee. This trend of being one of few black students persisted throughout my academic journey, including my doctoral studies. Nonetheless, I thrived and excelled at every stage.
However, most of my experiences as the only were less about race and more about embracing my uniqueness. I blended seamlessly with classmates and often didn’t perceive my race as a defining aspect until it was pointed out. This natural acclimation to diverse environments greatly equipped me for my professional life, where being the sole black individual or one of few in many settings became a norm.
My adaptability was further tested and strengthened during my time living and working in China. There, I was not only one of the few African Americans but also one of the few Americans or Christians in my circle. Yet, I thrived, both professionally as a teacher and socially. Even in a predominantly African church in China, yes in China, I stood out as an American, constantly navigating the dynamics of being the ‘only one’ with regards to nationality, language, and cultural experience.
Through these experiences, I’ve learned that success as the ‘only one’—whether in terms of race, nationality, faith, marital or parental status, or perspective—is rooted in recognizing the validity and value of my unique viewpoint. I’ve learned to use my differences as strengths, educating and enlightening others as needed. My comfort and confidence don’t hinge on the presence of another black woman in the room; they come from within, bolstered by a bold nature I believe God gave me to successfully navigate the path He chose for me.
To others finding themselves as the ‘only one,’ I suggest focusing on commonalities rather than differences. Building relatability fosters trust and collaboration, leading to success. It’s about leveraging your uniqueness to connect, influence, and ultimately thrive in any setting.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I was born in Tennessee but for the last 20 plus years I have called San Antonio, Texas home. I am a three time alumnus of University of the Incarnate Word, where I ultimately earned a Ph.D. in Education with a focus in Organizational Leadership.
I founded Lead My Heart, an executive coaching and consulting company, in 2022 after 16 years in education. Interesting, I know. I am an educator, researcher, and ordained minister who is committed to inspiring leaders and teaching them how to live and lead with purpose, passion, and power. Although I am an atypical executive coach, I truly yield atypical results by dealing with matters of the heart in leadership. I am also a certified ministry wellness coach, equipping me to serve as a mental health and full wellness companion for executives and other high-potential leaders.
At Lead My Heart, we have a unique focus on faith in leadership, spiritual leadership, and holistic wellness. Our mission is to equip executives and their teams to live and lead with purpose, passion, and power, integrating faith into leadership to transform organizations from graveyards to gardens. This holistic approach is what makes our work both exciting and special.
Our signature Corporate Executive Coaching (ExCo) Programs are designed to foster discipline, development, and discipleship in leadership. Through these programs, we encourage leaders to align with their true purpose, find balance in their professional and personal lives, and embrace a mindset of ‘chill’ to manage stress and maintain clarity. The ultimate goal of our Corporate ExCo programs is to build bridges between individual goals and needs and those of the organization.
What’s particularly thrilling about our work is seeing the transformation in our clients. When leaders elevate their leadership skills and maximize their impact, the ripple effect on their organizations, communities, and personal lives is profound. They not only become better leaders but also more fulfilled individuals.
Our coaching is based on the belief that leadership is a divine calling. It’s about gathering and inspiring individuals to execute a higher purpose in their respective fields, be it business, organizations, or churches. We emphasize the importance of leading with love, educating, affirming, and delivering on commitments, empowering individuals to fulfill their divine purpose with urgency and excellence.
I am excited to announce several new opportunities to engage with LMH. First, our “12D Wellness & Vision Workbook 2024” was published recently and is available on Amazon. The “12D Wellness & Vision Workbook 2024” is a transformative tool for leaders who aim to integrate their spiritual beliefs with their professional and personal goals. Featuring innovative elements like the 12D Wellness Quiz and the Faith in Leadership Quiz, it guides users towards holistic wellness and leadership effectiveness. The workbook employs LMH’s SMARTY goal framework, empowering leaders to set and achieve objectives that are deeply aligned with their values. This workbook is an indispensable resource for anyone seeking to elevate their leadership and live a balanced, purpose-driven life. Please invest in yourself and order your copy.
We also are partnering with a premier planner and a fine dining chef to curate Executive Luncheons. These curated events are designed to bring leaders together for networking, learning, and sharing experiences in a relaxed yet inspiring setting. Additionally, we are expanding our online presence with webinars and interactive sessions to reach a global audience. Connect with us at leadmyheart.com or follow us on social media @leadmyheart2022 to learn about our events and speaking engagements.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back on my journey, I attribute my success to three key elements: my faith in God, my adaptability to change, and my ability to view challenges as opportunities.
Firstly, my faith in God has been the bedrock of my life. It’s provided not just comfort, but also direction, especially in times of uncertainty. For those starting their journey, my advice is to cultivate your spiritual life. Whether it’s through prayer, meditation, or engaging with your faith community, strengthening this aspect of your life can be incredibly grounding and guiding. To all the readers, know that God loves you and desires great things for you.
Secondly, adaptability has been vital. The world we live in is ever-changing, and being able to flow with these changes has been crucial. My suggestion to those who are just beginning their careers is to embrace new experiences. Step out of your comfort zone, be open to learning, and be comfortable with not always knowing the outcome. This flexibility is a skill that grows more robust with practice.
Finally, viewing challenges as opportunities has fundamentally changed how I approach life. Instead of seeing difficulties as roadblocks, I see them as chances to learn, grow, and be creative. To develop this mindset, try to reframe the challenges you face. Ask yourself what you can learn from each situation, how it can contribute to your growth, or how you can try something new and innovative. This perspective turns adversity into a tool for development.
Patience with yourself is key as you develop these qualities. Growth is a journey, and it’s important to remember that each step, no matter how small, is part of your path to success. Embrace your experiences with an open heart and mind, and you’ll find that each challenge and joy along the way shapes you into a more capable and resilient individual.
As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
For me, the Bible stands out as the most influential and impactful leadership book of all time. Its timeless wisdom and teachings have not only guided me personally but have also profoundly influenced my professional approach.
The Bible’s influence on leadership is evident in its impact on some of the most notable leaders throughout history. Its teachings have transcended generations, offering insights and guidance that remain as relevant today as they were centuries ago. The stories within it present examples of effective leadership amid some of the most challenging circumstances imaginable, providing real-life lessons in resilience, faith, and determination.
Moreover, the Bible has been a foundational source for many other significant leadership books. Its principles have inspired countless authors who have drawn upon its wisdom to craft their own messages about leadership, character development, and personal growth. These works, in turn, have shaped the thoughts and practices of leaders across various fields and disciplines.
A few key nuggets of wisdom from the Bible that have particularly resonated with me include the importance of servant leadership, as exemplified by Jesus Christ. The idea that true leadership involves serving others, putting their needs above one’s own, and leading by example, is a powerful concept that I try to embody in my work with Lead My Heart.
Another valuable lesson is the emphasis on integrity and ethical conduct. The Bible teaches that our actions and decisions should be guided by moral principles, a lesson that is especially pertinent in today’s complex business and social landscapes.
Lastly, the importance of faith and perseverance in the face of adversity is a recurring theme in the Bible. This has encouraged me to remain steadfast in my goals and to trust in a higher purpose, even when faced with challenges. So, I encourage every reader to go and read the greatest leadership book of all time.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.leadmyheart.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/leadmyheart2022
- Facebook: facebook.com/leadmyheart2022
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/drwanitamercer
- Youtube: youtube.com/@leadmyheart2022
- Other: https://smart.bio/leadmyheart2022
Image Credits
Greater Brands Sonia Freeman, Aria Productions
