We recently connected with Tori Shareif-Taylor and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Tori , appreciate you sitting with us today. Maybe we can start with a topic that we care deeply about because it’s something we’ve found really sets folks apart and can make all the difference in whether someone reaches their goals. Self discipline seems to have an outsized impact on how someone’s life plays out and so we’d love to hear about how you developed yours?
My self-discipline stems from a deep-seated hunger for greatness and an unwavering commitment to personal and professional growth. As a biracial 24-year-old woman navigating the real estate industry as an agent services manager, and as a freelance model frequently encountering rejection and criticism, I have developed a resilience and steadfast self-confidence that are foundational to my journey.
Additionally, as a part-time student at Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU), balancing my academic responsibilities with my career ambitions has further honed my discipline. Juggling coursework and professional commitments requires meticulous time management and an unwavering focus, which have become integral parts of my daily routine.
From a young age, I understood the importance of hard work and perseverance. My diverse background has given me a unique perspective on the world, instilling in me the drive to excel and break barriers. In real estate, a field that demands constant learning and adaptation, my desire for continuous improvement fuels my discipline. I am committed to not just meeting but exceeding expectations, ensuring that I provide unparalleled support to the agents I manage.
In the modeling world, rejection and criticism are part and parcel of the journey. However, these challenges have only strengthened my resolve. Each ‘no’ is a stepping stone, a lesson in persistence and self-belief. The confidence I possess is not just a shield against self-doubt but a beacon guiding me towards my goals. It allows me to stay focused, maintain my course, and embrace every opportunity for growth.
Ultimately, my self-discipline is a blend of my relentless ambition and my refusal to be deterred by setbacks. It’s about harnessing my inner strength and passion for greatness, pushing boundaries, and constantly striving to become the best version of myself. Whether in real estate, modeling, or academics, my journey is driven by the belief that with discipline and confidence, there are no limits to what I can achieve.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I am an avid adventurer who loves exploring new spaces, trying new things, and meeting new people. My passion for discovery extends beyond physical adventures; it also includes learning about different cultures and languages. Recently, I’ve developed a keen interest in languages, and I am currently learning Korean and Spanish. My goal is to continue my studies through travel, immersing myself in diverse environments to enhance my linguistic skills.
Before delving into the real estate industry, I was a Division 1 athlete at the University of Northern Colorado. This experience significantly shaped me into the driven, team-oriented woman I am today. My athletic background instilled in me a strong sense of discipline and a relentless pursuit of excellence, qualities that have been invaluable in my professional journey.
In my current role in the real estate industry, I thrive on the challenges presented by the ever-changing markets and regulations. I oversee over 50 agents at my brokerage, assisting with physical marketing, event organization, and website/photo editing. The dynamic nature of real estate is a perfect fit for me, as I am always eager to tackle new challenges and find innovative solutions.
My academic journey at Metropolitan State University of Denver, where I am pursuing a degree in marketing, has been equally rewarding. It has been a period of significant personal growth, and I have discovered much about myself, including the fact that math is my weakness! Nevertheless, this has only motivated me to work harder and overcome obstacles.
In addition to my work in real estate, I have been active in the modeling industry for the past four years. I have had the privilege of walking in both the Spring and Fall Denver Fashion Week shows. Modeling is a passion of mine, and I hope to expand my career by participating in runway shows in more cities. The experience of dealing with rejection and criticism in modeling has fortified my self-confidence and resilience, allowing me to stay focused on my goals.
Most people describe me as a “people person” with a warm and welcoming demeanor. This trait has been a tremendous asset in both my real estate and modeling careers, as it helps me connect with clients, colleagues, and audiences alike.
In essence, my journey is defined by a constant drive for growth and excellence, whether it’s through my professional endeavors in real estate, my academic pursuits, or my passion for modeling and adventure. I am excited about the future and look forward to continuing to expand my horizons, embracing every opportunity that comes my way.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, the three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are empathy, candor, and my ability to be hard on myself. These attributes have not only shaped my career but also defined the person I am today.
Empathy is my strongest and most powerful skill. The ability to treat people with kindness and genuinely care about them has opened doors and created connections that are irreplaceable. In the real estate industry, understanding and addressing the needs and concerns of clients and colleagues fosters trust and builds lasting relationships. For those early in their journey, I advise developing empathy by actively listening to others and striving to understand their perspectives. Genuine care and concern for others will always set you apart in any field.
Candor is another asset that has propelled my career. Honesty, in an age where it is often hard to come by, has allowed me to be taken at face value, earning the trust and respect of those I work with. Being transparent and straightforward has facilitated clear communication and effective problem-solving, essential traits in both real estate and modeling. For those starting out, my advice is to always speak your truth with respect and integrity. Honesty not only builds your reputation but also creates a solid foundation for all your professional interactions.
Lastly, my ability to be hard on myself has been crucial. While some may see this as a weakness, I view it as a strength. Recognizing my flaws and areas for improvement has kept me grounded and driven. In today’s culture of unrealistic positivity, understanding that things are hard and that you won’t excel at everything right away is essential. Embracing this reality and using it as a starting point for growth fosters resilience and determination. My advice to newcomers is to embrace constructive self-criticism and use it to fuel your growth. Acknowledge your weaknesses, work on them diligently, and don’t shy away from challenges.
As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
A book that has profoundly shifted my view of my place in the world as a woman is Suze Orman’s “Women & Money”. This book has been a roadmap to financial independence for me, as well as a passage that highlights the great lengths and hard work women put in to meet today’s financial expectations.
One of the most impactful nuggets of wisdom from Orman’s book is the emphasis on financial literacy as the most valuable tool any woman can possess. Orman stresses that without financial literacy, women become completely dependent on others and have no real say in their own lives. This realization was a turning point for me, underscoring the importance of understanding and managing my finances to ensure my independence and freedom.
Another valuable lesson from the book is the significance of self-worth and how it is intertwined with financial security. Orman explains that knowing your value and not settling for less in both personal and professional contexts is crucial. This principle has empowered me to pursue my goals with confidence, knowing that my financial decisions directly impact my ability to achieve greatness and growth.
As a young woman, it’s disheartening to see the lack of financial education in our education system. This gap in knowledge has driven my passion for ensuring my own financial literacy while also teaching others. Since discovering many well-written financial literacy novels, I have made it a mission to share this knowledge with my peers and community, advocating for financial independence and empowerment.
“Women & Money” has not only provided me with practical advice on managing finances but also inspired a broader understanding of my potential and capabilities as a woman. It’s a powerful reminder that with the right knowledge and mindset, we can navigate the complexities of the financial world and secure a future of independence and self-reliance.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tori_tay99
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-shareif-taylor
Image Credits
Westin Mosburg
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