We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jummy Kirby a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Jummy, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Overcoming imposter syndrome as an African American woman is something I’ve had to navigate personally, and it’s been quite the journey. One of the most important things I’ve learned is to celebrate my achievements, no matter how small they may seem. It’s about recognizing the hard work and dedication I’ve put in to get to where I am today. Surrounding myself with a supportive network of mentors, colleagues, and friends who understand and uplift me has been incredibly empowering. Whenever those feelings of self-doubt creep in, I remind myself of all the times I’ve succeeded and the obstacles I’ve overcome. Embracing my cultural identity has also been key; it’s what makes me unique and brings valuable perspectives to the table. Setting achievable goals, being kind to myself, and continuously learning and growing have all helped chip away at that imposter syndrome wall. And you know what? Sharing my story with others has not only helped me feel less alone but has also inspired others facing similar challenges. It’s a journey, and I’m learning to embrace it, flaws and all.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Absolutely! As the owner of Relinquish and Transcend Counseling, I’m thrilled to share our exciting news with you. We’re expanding and evolving, which is why we’re changing our name to Relinquish and Transcend Counseling + Consulting. We’ve realized that we’re so much more than just counseling – we’re also deeply committed to providing consulting services that empower individuals and organizations to reach their full potential.
One of our proudest achievements of 2024 is being selected for the March of Dimes: Salute to Women of Achievement Health Equity in Business Award. This recognition is a testament to our dedication to promoting health equity and empowering communities through our work.
At Relinquish and Transcend Counseling + Consulting, we’ve forged meaningful partnerships with numerous organizations, schools, and nonprofits. Through these collaborations, we’ve been able to provide education, training, workshops, and counseling services to a wide range of individuals and groups.
What sets us apart is our diverse staff, who bring a wealth of experiences and perspectives to our work. With a team that reflects the communities we serve, we’re able to provide culturally competent therapy to people from all walks of life.As we embark on this new chapter, we’re excited to continue making a positive impact in the lives of our clients and the broader community.
Thank you everyone for your ongoing support as we strive to create a more inclusive and equitable world together.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge stand out as particularly impactful:
1. Resilience: The ability to bounce back from setbacks and persevere in the face of challenges has been crucial. Building resilience requires cultivating a positive mindset, practicing self-care, and seeking support from others during difficult times. My advice to those early in their journey is to embrace failures as opportunities for growth, stay flexible in adapting to change, and remember that setbacks are temporary obstacles, not permanent barriers.
2. Adaptability: In a constantly changing world, being adaptable is essential for success. Flexibility and openness to new experiences have allowed me to navigate unexpected twists and turns in my journey. To develop adaptability, I encourage others to step outside their comfort zones, embrace uncertainty, and continuously learn and evolve. Being adaptable means being willing to pivot when necessary and seize opportunities that may not have been part of the original plan.
3. Networking and Relationship Building: Building meaningful connections with others has been instrumental in my journey. Whether it’s mentors, colleagues, or collaborators, the support and guidance of others have helped me overcome obstacles and achieve my goals. Networking is not just about making professional connections; it’s about fostering genuine relationships based on mutual respect and trust. For those starting their journey, I recommend seeking out mentors and peers who inspire and challenge them, actively participating in networking events and communities, and being generous with their own time and expertise to build strong professional relationships.
In summary, resilience, adaptability, and networking are three qualities that have been pivotal in my journey. My advice to those early in their journey is to cultivate these qualities by embracing failures as opportunities for growth, staying flexible and open to new experiences, and building meaningful relationships with others. By embodying these qualities, individuals can navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and ultimately achieve success in their endeavors.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
It might sound cliché to say “my husband,” but it’s undeniably the truth. He is my pillar of strength, always there to offer a calm voice of reason when I’m in a state of panic. His ability to provide different viewpoints has been invaluable in broadening my perspective and helping me find clarity in challenging situations. Moreover, his unwavering support has been a constant source of encouragement and motivation throughout my journey. While it may sound like a familiar sentiment, the depth of his impact on my life cannot be overstated.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.randtcounseling.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/namaste_mindfu1/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/namastemindfu1
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/relinquish-and-transcend-counseling/
- Other: Google Reviews: https://g.co/kgs/XqB9TWg
