We recently connected with Jazmine Davis and have shared our conversation below.
Jazmine, so great to have you with us and thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts with the community. So, let’s jump into something that stops so many people from going after their dreams – haters, nay-sayers, etc. We’d love to hear about how you dealt with that and persisted on your path.
My drive for overcoming those who try to deter me from reaching my goals (and trust me, many continue to try) comes from understanding the capabilities within myself. As I draw my strength from my faith, I live with the knowledge that there are many gifts I have been blessed with, and I shouldn’t take them for granted or place them in a box for the benefit of others. It’s easier to dwell on how people view you and allow that thought to take root in how you view yourself. It’s the push to move past that and remain solid in knowing my self worth that allows me to persevere.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am the Head of Marketing and Communications at Tree of Life Stories, LLC. I have had the pleasure of working alongside Shweta, as we met through our shared experience in the dental field. What drew me to the organization was the desire our kids have to write their own articles on what piques their interest and ignites a fire in their spirits. What started as a seed planted through a child’s vision, Ira, has since blossomed into a thriving tree, its branches reaching out to touch the lives of all the kids who have joined the organization. It warms my heart to see the way they not only talk with such enthusiasm but also develop relationships with their peers. We are in the process of publishing our second edition, and I’m excited for others to read what these kids are working so hard to produce, hoping that others feel intrigued to learn more!
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I feel strongly that listening to the entirety of what someone is saying—rather than cutting them off—goes a long way. But don’t get me wrong, the conversation should be transactional. Just as I practice listening to what others say, I feel strongly that it should be reciprocated. It’s like watching a movie—do you leave before the movie ends? The same idea can be applied to a conversation. If you choose to cut someone off before they finish their statement, you may miss important details that could have added value or clarity.
I’m always looking for ways to organize (even guilty of reorganizing), whether it’s my space or my thoughts. I find that organizing my surroundings helps me clear my head and focus on the tasks I’ve laid out for myself.
Ever since I was young, I’ve always been told that I lead with an attention to detail. While it’s important to look at the overall picture, the little details are the pieces that form the broader image. Those minor specks are what some people pay attention to—whether you’re aware of them or not.
My advice is that you’re never too young or too old to learn. It’s easy to take what someone says as a personal attack, and in the moment, you’re allowed to feel how you feel. What’s for you to decide is whether to dwell on that feeling or take what was said as a stepping stone toward the goal you’re working to achieve. There’s a distinct difference between criticism and constructive criticism, and the ability to separate the two can help you in ways you never thought possible.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
Absolutely! Being a Richmond native, I would love to collaborate with local businesses and organizations that highlight the hidden gems within the city. Richmond has so much to offer, and tapping into that would help bring those treasures to light. I hope other families will use the resources provided in our magazine to support their children’s success. I am also looking to work with other organizations and businesses that not only emphasize the importance of ensuring that kids don’t feel their options are limited but support their overall well-being in a fast-paced world.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.treeoflifestories.org/
- Instagram: @treeoflifestories
- Facebook: @treeoflifestories
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
