We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Tara Klebowski a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Tara, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
Reflecting on my journey of being effective and successful while often being the only one in the room who feels like me (so my mind tells me), a significant part of my story comes to mind. This story intertwines my struggles with mental health and my mission to make a difference in my community.
Growing up but even more so into my recent adult years, I often felt out of place and battled with the belief that I wasn’t good enough, or that i was capable of being loved by anyone. This feeling of inadequacy, coupled with anxiety, made me constantly worry about what might happen next and how others perceived me. It was a challenging space to navigate, especially when trying to accomplish meaningful work.
However, almost nine years ago, I embarked on a transformative journey by starting a nonprofit aimed at helping underserved kids in our county. This endeavor was fueled by my deep-seated desire to make a positive impact despite my inner turmoil. The process of establishing and running this nonprofit was not without its challenges. There were moments when I doubted my capabilities and questioned if I was truly making a difference or if i should just shut the whole thing down.
I faced skepticism and doubt from others. From people who didn’t know me and those i thought were close to me. But I leaned into my passion for helping others, which became my driving force. I surrounded myself with a team of volunteers who shared my vision and passion. Their support and dedication reinforced my belief in the cause and reminded me that I was not alone in this journey.
One key lesson I learned was the importance of openness. By sharing my struggles with mental health with those close to me, and my husband who has been a huge support system, I found a sense of relief and solidarity. It was through these honest conversations that I realized the power of vulnerability. Having someone to confide in and lean on during tough times became an essential habit that fortified my resilience.
Despite the challenges, I persisted. I kept pushing forward, driven by the belief that there was a greater purpose to my efforts. Each success story from the kids we helped, each smile, and each expression of gratitude became a testament to the impact we were making. These moments reaffirmed my belief that, regardless of my struggles, I was capable of doing great things for others.
In these nine years, I’ve grown not just as a leader, but as a person. I’ve learned to navigate the anxiety and self-doubt that once held me back. I’ve embraced my unique position and used it to inspire and uplift others. My journey with the nonprofit has shown me that being effective and successful isn’t about fitting in or being perfect. It’s about staying true to your purpose, being open and vulnerable, and relentlessly pursuing the vision you believe in.
This experience has taught me that while I may be the “only one in the room who feels like me,” my voice and actions have the power to create ripples of change. It’s a continuous journey of growth, but one that I embrace with a heart full of passion and a spirit of perseverance.
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?
After nearly nine years of dedicated service, I recently transitioned from my role as the executive director of Richland Outreach Center, a nonprofit I founded, to join the board of directors as just the founder. This decision stemmed from my belief that new leadership brings fresh ideas, which can further the growth and impact of our organization. It was a bittersweet change, but one that I felt was necessary for the continued success of Richland Outreach Center.
Within this year, I also embarked on an exciting new venture by co-founding OliveBloom Collective with a close friend who shares my passion for helping others. OliveBloom Collective is a holistic wellness company that offers a range of services, including ionic foot detoxes, light and salt therapy, and AromaTouch. Our offerings are designed to promote relaxation, detoxification, and overall well-being.
One of the most exciting aspects of OliveBloom is the community we’ve built. We host ladies’ nights and all-natural holistic events, creating a space for people to come together, relax, rejuvenate and just have a good laugh. These events have become a cornerstone of our business, fostering a sense of community and support among our clients.
OliveBloom Collective is more than just a business to me—it’s my sanctuary. The work we do there brings me peace and keeps me grounded, balancing my professional and personal life. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see the positive impact we have on our clients’ lives and to be part of a movement that prioritizes natural, holistic approaches to health and wellness.
At OliveBloom, we are committed to providing a serene and supportive environment where our clients can find respite from their daily stresses. Whether through our therapeutic services or our community events, we aim to promote a holistic approach to health that nurtures both the body and the mind.
I am proud of the work we do at OliveBloom Collective and excited about the future. Our journey is just beginning, and I look forward to continuing to grow and evolve, both as a business and as a community.
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 qualities, skills, and areas of knowledge stand out as the most impactful: staying true to myself, remembering where I came from, and working hard while always putting God first.
1. Staying True to Yourself
– Throughout my journey, authenticity has been crucial. It’s essential to know who you are and what you stand for, and to remain steadfast in your values and beliefs. This quality has guided my decisions and actions, helping me stay aligned with my purpose.
– Advice: For those early in their journey, take time to understand your core values and let them guide you. Embrace your uniqueness and let your authenticity shine through in everything you do. This will not only keep you grounded but also attract the right opportunities and people into your life.
2. Remembering Where You Came From
– Keeping in mind my roots and the experiences that shaped me has been a powerful motivator. It has kept me humble and grateful, reminding me of the reasons behind my passion for helping others.
– Advice: Never forget your beginnings and the challenges you’ve overcome. Use them as a source of strength and inspiration. Reflecting on your journey can provide perspective and motivation, especially during tough times. Let your past experiences fuel your drive to make a positive impact.
3. Working Hard and Putting God First
– Hard work and faith have been cornerstones of my journey. I’ve learned that dedication and perseverance are essential for achieving any meaningful goal. Additionally, putting God first has provided me with guidance, strength, and a sense of purpose.
– Advice: Cultivate a strong work ethic and be prepared to put in the effort required to achieve your goals. Stay committed and resilient, even when faced with obstacles. Additionally, maintaining a spiritual foundation can offer you support and direction. Trust in a higher power and let your faith guide you through your journey.
In summary, staying true to yourself, remembering your roots, and combining hard work with faith are fundamental qualities and skills that have profoundly impacted my journey. For those just starting, embracing these principles can help you navigate your path with purpose and resilience.
What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?
In the past 12 months, my biggest area of growth has been setting boundaries and removing anything toxic from my life. I’ve learned to prioritize my well-being by allowing myself to have “me time,” spending quality moments with my family and dogs. This shift has not only improved my mental and emotional health but also strengthened my relationships with those who matter most.
Another significant aspect of my growth has been accepting that others are entitled to their opinions about me. I’ve come to understand that while people can have their views, it’s ultimately up to me how I choose to react. This mindset shift has brought a sense of peace and empowerment, enabling me to focus on what truly matters and let go of unnecessary stress.
These changes have allowed me to create a healthier, more balanced life, fostering personal happiness and growth.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrsklebo?igsh=MXQ4M2E5ZWc0eGxrdg==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/BRBZ4D74FuE5SeUo/?mibextid=qi2Omg
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taraklebowski?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app
- Other: www.facebook.com/olivebloomcollective
www.facebook.com/richlandoutreachcenter
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
