We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Sharnise Sears. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Sharnise below.
Sharnise, 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.
Imposter syndrome is a real struggle, and I can relate to the ups and downs that come with it. Some days, like today, I’m in the zone, knocking out interviews and feeling on top of the world. But then there are those days when even the thought of opening my laptop feels overwhelming. And you know what? That’s okay. I’ve learned that pushing through every single day isn’t the answer. Rest is just as important for creativity as hustle.
So, I’ve set boundaries for myself. I give myself permission to take one or two days a week to rest and recharge. It’s amazing what a little time away can do for your mental clarity and inspiration. But when the deadlines loom large, I’ve got my routine down to a science. I pray, clear my workspace, set the mood with some essential oils, cue up my favorite tunes on Alexa, and dive in. It’s not always easy, but having that structure helps me push through the mental roadblocks, even if it’s just to tackle one small task.
The key, I’ve found, is finding what works for you and sticking to it. Whether it’s setting aside dedicated rest days or creating a ritual to kickstart your productivity, having a routine can be a lifeline when imposter syndrome comes knocking. And remember, you’re not alone in this struggle. Every creative has been there, and we’re all figuring out what works best for us.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
In the world of weddings, I find myself at a unique crossroads, embracing timeless traditions and innovative trends as a wedding officiant and marriage educator. My specialty is crafting anything but cookie-cutter ceremonies by integrating each couple’s distinctive story, cultural heritage, and personal beliefs into their special day. I take great pride in offering a tailored experience, ensuring that the ceremony reflects the true nature of their relationship and resonates deeply with their shared journey.
Building genuine connections with couples is at the heart of what I do, helping to bring their vision for their wedding day to life in a memorable and meaningful way. My approach extends beyond just the ceremony, as I offer marriage education before and after the wedding ceremony to establish a solid foundation for the marriage to come. This comprehensive approach distinguishes my services, providing support from the initial consultation to post-wedding follow-ups.
With a background that combines psychology and biblical studies with a modern understanding of relationships, I am equipped to provide spiritually grounded and relevant guidance to contemporary couples. This balance allows me to serve a wide array of clients, including those looking for non-traditional religious ceremonies. My commitment to personalization ensures that each ceremony is imbued with the couple’s voice, sharing their unique stories and moments of joy.
It is a profound honor to be part of the most significant moments in a couple’s life together, witnessing their vows and the start of their new chapter. I view weddings as the beginning of a lifelong journey to be celebrated and cherished for years to come.
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, three key qualities and areas of knowledge stand out as pivotal: the power of grounding through spirituality and intentionality, the value of collaboration over competition, and the importance of ongoing education and adaptation.
Integrating spirituality and clear intentionality into my personal life and business practices has been foundational. It has provided a compass during times of uncertainty and a sense of peace amidst the chaos of entrepreneurship. This grounding has been crucial for maintaining perspective and ensuring my actions align with my core values and mission. For those beginning their journey, establishing a practice of reflection and connection to a higher purpose can be transformative. Find what centers you, Whether through meditation, prayer, or journaling. Make this practice a non-negotiable part of your routine, as it will serve as your anchor when navigating the inevitable challenges and shifts in your path.
Embracing collaboration has not only expanded my network but also enriched my professional and personal growth. By working together with like-minded individuals, I’ve achieved far more than I could have alone. This approach has fostered a sense of community and support, which is invaluable in the often-isolated world of entrepreneurship. Actively seek out opportunities for collaboration. Attend networking events, join professional groups, and don’t hesitate to reach out to those you admire. Approach these connections with a mindset of how you can offer value to each other rather than what you can gain. This shift in perspective can open up opportunities for mutual growth and success.
The commitment to never stop learning has been vital in staying relevant and innovative. The world, especially the entrepreneurial landscape, evolves rapidly. Continuous education—whether through seminars, books, podcasts, or mentorship—has equipped me with new skills, insights, and perspectives that have propelled my journey forward.
Cultivate a mindset of curiosity and openness to learning. Dedicate time each week to your education through formal courses or informal learning channels. Remember, the goal is to accumulate knowledge and apply it creatively in your work. Also, be willing to share your knowledge with others. Teaching can be a powerful way to solidify your understanding and connect with others.
Grounding yourself spiritually and intentionally creates a solid foundation to grow. It helps you stay true to your vision and values, even when external circumstances change. Embracing collaboration over competition breaks the isolation that often comes with entrepreneurship and catalyzes innovation and growth. Finally, a commitment to ongoing education ensures that you remain at the forefront of your field, adaptable, and ready to seize new opportunities. Together, these principles form a robust framework for success in any endeavor.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Absolutely, I’m always on the lookout for like-minded entrepreneurs and organizations who share my passion for fostering stronger relationships and building more connected communities. As Cleveland’s self-proclaimed “Love Leader,” my mission extends beyond the realm of romantic relationships to encompass the broader goal of helping individuals thrive both professionally and personally. I’m particularly interested in collaboration opportunities that focus on mental health, recognizing its critical role in overall well-being and in the foundation of healthy relationships.
The ideal collaborators would be those who are working in areas related to relationship coaching, mental health advocacy, community building, personal development, and wellness. Whether it’s co-hosting workshops, participating in panel discussions, creating content together, or supporting each other’s initiatives, there’s a multitude of ways we can join forces to make a significant impact.
If you’re reading this and feel aligned with my vision, I’d love to hear from you. Together, we can explore innovative ways to support individuals in becoming the best versions of themselves and nurture healthy, fulfilling relationships. Let’s connect and discuss how we can combine our efforts to make a positive difference in our communities. You can contact me through my professional website, social media platforms, or by attending one of the local events or seminars I frequently participate in around Cleveland. Let’s create something meaningful and transformative together.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ministersharnisesears.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/minister_sharnise_sears
- Facebook: facebook.com/minister_sharnise_sears
Image Credits
First photo: Kamron Khan Photography 3 Branding images: The Dragon Fly Photo
