Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Charlene Hendricks . We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Charlene , thanks for sharing your insights with our community today. Part of your success, no doubt, is due to your work ethic and so we’d love if you could open up about where you got your work ethic from?
Loyalty was ingrained in me as a child. The most significant part of loyalty is never giving up. My parents never allowed me to be subpar or quit anything without finishing it. From school to sports to any club I signed up for, I had to show up, go above and beyond, and at the very least, see it through. Becoming a theme in my life, I’ve always strived (and was pushed) never to do the bare minimum and my work ethic reflects that.
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?
I do a lot. I have multiple passions, hobbies and will NEVER give up my social life.
First, I am the president and founder of my nonprofit, Safe Place for Our Tribe, Inc. (SPOT), A Georgia 501(c)(3) public charity.
I oversee events, sponsorships, and relations. We strive to create emotional safety for all people through education, conversation, and intentional events/programming. The SPOT just turned 1, but my team has been doing the work for 4+ years now. I’m so grateful to have the team I do. Everyone’s passion shines through in what we do because not only do they always see my vision, but they also create their own.
Outside of the SPOT, I am an Event Coordinator at J.McAllister Events and Emory University. I consult small businesses and artists to help them achieve their goals. Currently obtaining my Ph.D. in Human Services, focused in Nonprofit Administration. I also am an aerial artist practicing Pole, Lyra, and Silks.
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?
Perseverance, teachability, and passion are three things that have helped me navigate life. My advice to anyone is to be yourself, the worst someone can say is no, you can literally do anything and go to therapy.
Being teachable, I have never stopped learning. Having the ability to be a student and, more importantly, the willingness to learn continuously has impacted my journey the most. In addition to my family and friends, I must attribute my success to every teacher, coach, involved parent, and even those people I have conversations with in the checkout line. I am a sponge to knowledge and use any opportunity as a learning experience.
Perseverance and passion go hand in hand. SHIT GETS REAL. Life is hard and, honestly, only gets harder as you grow. When you’re face to face with reality, you either have to see it through or let it destroy you. I am passionate about EVERYTHING. So while it helps me create the magic, it also makes it harder to let go of what is no longer serving me. I get knocked down often, but I always get up. Passion has caused me my greatest success but also my hardest losses. That’s why perseverance is so important. Chasing your dreams is not easy, and if you’re not fully invested and have the will to keep fighting when it gets tough, you may never catch them.
All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?
My number one obstacle is myself. Being “booked and busy” is all fun and games until you’ve been working for 3 days straight with 4 hours of sleep. I have no issue putting in the work or being consistent but I do be tired! Like most of us, I’m my worse critic and so hard on myself.
Self-care is essential to keeping me sane. That’s why I will always maintain my social life and will always have a therapist.
Having fun, spending money, and taking risk is all frowned upon in the “hustle culture” that’s been created and it’s completely false. Locking in is important but it should never be at the expense of your peace of mind. Sometimes my accomplishments feel minuscule and I will downplay them. That’s why I’m grateful for my support system always reminding me that I’m that bitch. Universally, a solid support system, outlets outside of the work you’re doing, and a strong self-care routine help me with all challenges I face, including myself.
Contact Info:
- Website: thespotinc.org
- Instagram: Charleneandrea_
- Linkedin: Charlene Hendricks, M.S.
- Other: SPOT: @_thespotinc | @ownyourcrown_
Tiktok: @charleneandrea_
Image Credits
San Roizer
