Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Laurel Barrett. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Laurel , we’ve been so fortunate to work with so many incredible folks and one common thread we have seen is that those who have built amazing lives for themselves are also often the folks who are most generous. Where do you think your generosity comes from?
In my case, I express my generosity through the investment of my time and resources in the form of volunteering. I possess an inherent passion for assisting my community and constantly seek out fresh avenues to extend a helping hand. Ever since joining the Girl Scouts in second grade, I have wholeheartedly embraced the role of an enthusiastic volunteer. On average, I dedicate over 500 hours annually to various volunteer activities. I firmly believe in the significance of volunteering, recognizing that one can never predict when they might require assistance themselves.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
As a proud fourth-generation Colorado native, I have cultivated a diverse range of interests and achievements. After graduating from the University of Colorado at Denver, I obtained my Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology and recently completed my Master of Business Administration. Growing up in a loving family has been a blessing, with my parents and my little sister, who happens to be my talented hair stylist, forming an integral part of my life. Not to forget Puzzle, our cherished Chesapeake Bay retriever who is undoubtedly a cherished member of our family!
Through dedicated practice and unwavering determination, I have earned numerous championships in the realm of Hula Hooping, which has become an enjoyable and rewarding form of exercise for me. As a true lover of Colorado’s breathtaking outdoors, I seize every opportunity to indulge in paddle boarding, savoring the beauty and tranquility it offers.
With a compassionate heart, I have been a healthcare professional for over 18 years, consistently placing people at the forefront of my work. My dedication was recently honored when I received the Corporate and Social Responsibility award as part of the Walgreens Champion of Champions program. Additionally, I have proudly received several community impact awards, acknowledging the extensive volunteer work and time I have dedicated to those in need. I wholeheartedly encourage others to discover a meaningful cause and engage in volunteerism, as the rewards of such endeavors far outweigh the effort invested.
Being a planner and goal-setter throughout my entire life, there is always a new horizon waiting for me to conquer. Professionally, I strive to continually advance my career, finding deep satisfaction in knowing that I can contribute to helping others live their best lives. On a personal level, my goal is to become the best version of myself, recognizing that by doing so, I can inspire and uplift others to pursue their greatness.
In all aspects of my life, whether personal or professional, I embrace the ethos of constant growth and fulfillment, confident that there is always more to accomplish and endless possibilities to explore.
This Labor Day, I am thrilled to announce that I will be participating in the prestigious International Ms. competition in Orlando, Florida. I cordially invite you to join me on this exhilarating journey by following my progress on my social media platforms. Your support in sharing the impactful work I do with others would mean the world to me. Together, let’s spread the message and inspire others through my participation in this incredible event.
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?
Throughout my journey, I have gained invaluable insights that have shaped my perspective. Three key lessons I’ve learned are the importance of flexibility, being a self-starter, and embracing alternative paths. Flexibility is crucial as unforeseen circumstances can arise, necessitating the ability to adapt and pivot swiftly. Being a self-starter empowers me to pursue my aspirations independently, without relying on the assistance of others. Moreover, I have come to appreciate the significance of being open to alternative paths, recognizing that what I initially envisioned may not always align with the best course of action for personal growth and fulfillment. These lessons have profoundly influenced my approach to life, enabling me to navigate challenges with resilience and embrace new opportunities that may lead me to unexpected and fulfilling destinations.
For those aspiring to make a positive impact in their community, my advice is to start by observing and assessing the current landscape. Take the time to look around and understand the ongoing initiatives and projects. If you discover that someone else is already actively involved in a particular endeavor, it is essential to find your own unique path and explore alternative avenues for making a difference. By doing so, you can ensure that your efforts complement existing initiatives rather than duplicating them. Embrace your creativity, identify unaddressed needs or untapped opportunities, and chart a course that sets you apart, enabling you to contribute in a distinct and meaningful way. Remember, the key to creating lasting change lies in your ability to find your own path and offer a fresh perspective to your community.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I am continuously seeking new opportunities to volunteer with different groups or participate in one-time projects. Moreover, I am currently seeking sponsors to support my upcoming pageant journey. There are numerous ways in which you can contribute to sponsoring my endeavors. Financial support is greatly appreciated, but even a simple shoutout or engagement with my social media posts, such as liking and sharing, can make a significant difference.
Competing in an international pageant entails various expenses, including travel costs, competition wardrobe, hair and makeup for events, photoshoots, and miscellaneous expenses throughout the year. No donation for sponsorship is too small, and in return, your name or business name will be acknowledged on my social media platforms and in the pageant program book.
If you own a business in Colorado, I would be thrilled to attend one of your events as an emcee or judge in exchange for a shoutout on your social media channels and recognition at the event.
The easiest way to show your support and help me reach a wider audience is by engaging with my social media content—liking and sharing my posts. This simple action helps to amplify my name and message to a larger group of individuals that I may not have access to otherwise.
If you are interested in collaborating on a project or becoming a sponsor, please feel free to reach out to me at [email protected]. I am open to discussing potential partnerships and grateful for any support you can offer.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/InternationalMsColorado2023/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalMsColorado2023
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurel-barrett
Image Credits
Amanda Barrett, Jared Kennedy, Eva Filis, Catherine Fihn, Jean Barrett
