We recently connected with Hala Kusiak and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Hala, 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?
Being the only one in the room who looks like me can be challenging, but it also presents unique opportunities for growth and impact. Here are some strategies to help me be effective and successful in this situation:
1. Embrace My Uniqueness:
Rather than viewing my “only one” status as a disadvantage, recognize it as a strength. My unique perspective and experiences can bring valuable insights to the table. Remember that I’ve been recognized for my talents, and my presence in the room is an opportunity to make a significant impact.
2. Build Confidence and Tackle Self-Doubt
It’s common to experience self-doubt or imposter syndrome when I am the only one who looks like me in a professional setting. However, it’s crucial to remind myself that I belong there. As Carla Harris, Vice Chairman and Managing Director at Morgan Stanley, advises, “If you were invited in the room, you belong in the room.”
3. Authenticity is My Superpower
While it might be tempting to suppress qualities that make me unique, bringing my authentic self to work can be my greatest competitive advantage. By being true to myself, I create opportunities to build valuable relationships and stand out positively.
4. Know My Purpose
Understanding my purpose is crucial for success. Ask myself:
– Who do I want to impact?
– What are my values?
– Can others identify my values through my life and work?
Regularly revisiting and redefining my purpose can help me stay focused and motivated, even when facing challenges.
5. Build a Support Network
Being the only one doesn’t mean I have to be alone. Seek out mentors, allies, and communities that can offer support and guidance. Look for opportunities to connect with others who have similar experiences, even if they’re not in my immediate workplace.
6. Speak Up and Contribute
Make it my responsibility to be an integral part of the conversation. My unique perspective is valuable, so I don’t hesitate to share my ideas and insights. By actively participating, I can help shape discussions and decisions.
7. Educate Others
Use my position as an opportunity to educate others about diversity and inclusion. Share my experiences when appropriate, and help create a more inclusive environment for future generations.
8. Seek Growth Opportunities
Being the only one can sometimes lead to increased scrutiny, but it can also provide opportunities for visibility and growth. Look for chances to take on leadership roles or high-impact projects that showcase your skills and abilities.
9. Practice Self-Care
Navigating these situations can be emotionally taxing. I make sure to prioritize my mental health and well-being. I take breaks when needed, and find ways to recharge outside of work.
By implementing these strategies, I can turn the challenge of being the “only one” into an opportunity for personal growth and professional success. Remember, my presence matters, and by embracing my unique status as a strength, I can pave the way for greater diversity and inclusion in my field.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
In the nonprofit my mission is to build self reinforcing economic systems that generate compounding returns through the power of creativity, capital, sustainable entrepreneurship, and community. My work is focused on Educational Programs, Venture Pitches, Speaking Engagements, Talent Acquisition, Ecosystem Stewardship, Technology Integration, Mindset Training, and Provide Access to Capital.
As an artist my artwork explores themes of everyday life, experiences and self. My work is known for its vibrant celebration of color and the intricate interplay between these themes. Additionally, I draw inspiration from moments, incidents, and feelings, often finding beauty in overlooked subjects. My art reflects a tapestry of emotions, emphasizing intensity and personal expression. I use acrylic on canvas.
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?
The three of the most impactful qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge in my journey are:
Self-awareness
Adaptability
Continuous learning
Here’s a breakdown of each, along with advice for those early in my journey:
1. Self-awareness
Self-awareness is the foundation for personal growth and success. It involves understanding your strengths, weaknesses, values, and motivations.
Advice for development:
Practice regular self-reflection through journaling or meditation.
Seek feedback from trusted friends, colleagues, or mentors.
Take personality assessments like Myers-Briggs or StrengthsFinder.
Set aside time for introspection to examine your thoughts and behaviors.
2. Adaptability
In our rapidly changing world, the ability to adapt to new situations, technologies, and ways of thinking is crucial.
Advice for improvement:
Embrace change and view challenges as opportunities for growth.
Develop a growth mindset – believe in your ability to learn and improve.
Practice stepping out of your comfort zone regularly.
Learn from failures and setbacks, viewing them as learning experiences.
3. Continuous learning
The commitment to lifelong learning enables personal and professional growth throughout one’s journey.
Advice for cultivating this skill:
Develop a reading habit across various subjects.
Take online courses or attend workshops in areas of interest.
Seek out mentors and learn from their experiences.
Stay curious and ask questions to deepen your understanding.
Apply new knowledge practically in your work or personal projects.
By focusing on developing these three areas early in your journey, you’ll build a strong foundation for personal growth and success in various aspects of life.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
Feeling overwhelmed is a common experience, and there are several effective strategies I employ to manage stress and regain a sense of control. Here are some practical tips:
1. Identify the Cause
Understanding the source of your stress is crucial. Take time to reflect on what specifically is making you feel overwhelmed. This awareness can help you address the root of the problem rather than just its symptoms.
2. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques.
Incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation or deep breathing exercises into your routine. These techniques can help calm your mind and reduce anxiety by anchoring you in the present moment. For example, try belly breathing: place one hand on your stomach and the other on your chest, inhale deeply through your nose, and focus on the rise and fall of your belly.
3. Engage in Physical Activity
Regular exercise is a powerful stress reliever. Activities like walking, yoga, or any form of physical movement can help clear your mind, reduce emotional intensity, and improve your overall mood.
4. Connect with Others
Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues for support. Talking about your feelings can provide relief and help you gain new perspectives on your situation. Building a strong social network is essential for emotional well-being.
5. Set Boundaries
Learn to say no to additional responsibilities that could overwhelm you further. Prioritize tasks based on importance and do not hesitate to delegate when possible. Creating boundaries helps protect your time and energy.
6. Take Breaks and Schedule “Me Time”
Make sure to carve out time for yourself to relax and engage in activities you enjoy. Whether it’s reading, watching a movie, or pursuing a hobby, taking breaks can recharge your mental batteries.
7. Focus on Healthy Habits
Maintain a balanced diet, get adequate sleep, and limit caffeine and alcohol intake. These factors significantly affect your stress levels and overall mental health. Aim for regular meals that nourish both your body and mind.
8. Challenge Negative Thoughts
Identify negative thought patterns that contribute to feelings of overwhelm. Work on replacing these thoughts with more positive or realistic ones. Journaling can be an effective way to process these emotions and track progress over time.
By implementing these strategies, you can better manage feelings of overwhelm and cultivate resilience in the face of life’s challenges.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.halakusiakart.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hala.kusiak/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HalaKusiak
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hala-kusiak-a9217924a/
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