We were lucky to catch up with Lucrecer Braxton recently and have shared our conversation below.
Lucrecer, 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?
I had to learn to pour into myself before I pour into others. One of the hardest lessons for us to learn is that no one is going to rescue you. If you don’t look or act like you are in distress, people assume you are fine. And, you may be perfectly fine for the most part, but there are those days when life and people can really wear you down.
I have learned that I must be my biggest advocate and cheerleader. I have to gas myself up when I enter spaces where I am the only one. The only woman. The only Black person. The only person who is in some way othered.
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?
Recently, I bought a house and I have a renewed love for interior design and styling. I am a book collector and I can finally put the interior books to use. I am excited about growing my plant collection again, because I have more than one spot in the house where plants will thrive. When I was moving, I made the hard decision to let go of half of my plants. I only brought with me what I loved and it has been a lot of fun adding new plants to my home. Spring has me excited about growing food and figuring out what I want to do with my yard.
The freedom to explore things I love with my home has me ready to revisit a few creative pursuits. I had a podcast some years ago and I enjoyed connecting with people and hearing their stories. The itch to podcast again is definitely calling to me and this just might be the year I launch a new show.
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?
Fluidity has been a quality that has never let me down. The ability to adapt and make the best of any situation has helped me hone my strategic thinking and quickly pivot when needed.
Ideation is another strength I rely heavily on. I trust myself and my ability to come up with creative and innovative solutions.
I focus on strengths and use my own and others to inspire and encourage excellence. I am open to serendipitous moments and look for opportunities to innovate.
I am not afraid to fail. There is so much opportunity in learning from things that are not working. I believe in failing quickly so you can pivot. The best advice I can give to someone early in their journey is to not be afraid to change course. Trust your instincts and leave situations, people and jobs that are not helping you grow.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overwhelmed, I meditate. I like to get quiet and journal and center myself. Sometimes I will take a walk or sit with my plants while I listen to music that stirs my soul.
If I am extremely overwhelmed, I take a nap. Sleep immediately breaks the momentum of overthinking and I tend to feel better when I wake up.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soulsistaplants/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucrecerbraxton/
- Other: https://www.threads.net/@lucrecer/
Image Credits
LucrecerB image was taken by Teah Longland Photography
