We recently connected with Ciera Ellison and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Ciera , 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?
I’ve learned to be effective and successful even when I am the only one in the room that looks like me by always remembering my worth. I made it to the room because I deserved to be there, and I worked hard to be there. So I always hold my head high and walk in confidence because God already prepared my seat in that room. This mindset has helped me tremendously as a business owner. While I may not know all the ins and outs of running a business, I’ve done the groundwork and shown the initiative to continue to learn and grow. By embracing my unique perspective and trusting in my abilities, I can navigate challenges with self-assurance and lead my business with conviction and resilience.
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 started my business while planning my son’s first birthday party. I wanted a fun and engaging activity for the kiddos and stumbled upon the idea of soft play. However, I quickly realized that none of the vendors in the DFW area serviced my area. That’s when I decided to start a business to serve my area and the surrounding communities.
The most exciting and special part about running my business is watching our little friends grow up and being a part of their events year after year. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the joy on their faces and to know that our services contribute to their happy memories.
We’re always looking to innovate and add new elements to our offerings. Our newest addition is the “pup pit,” exclusively for our furry friends. Dog parties have become very popular, and we are thrilled to offer a ball pit specifically designed for these special occasions. It’s been a hit, and we’re excited to continue expanding this service.
If you’re looking for engaging, safe, and fun activities for your kids’ parties or even your pets’ celebrations, we’re here to help create those unforgettable moments. Whether it’s a soft play area for toddlers or a pup pit for your fur baby’s big day, we’re dedicated to making every event special.
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?
Looking back, the three qualities that were most impactful in my journey were my faith in God, perseverance, and being coachable. My faith in God was foundational, as it directed my path and ensured that everything fell into place according to His plan. This spiritual guidance provided me with a sense of purpose and clarity even during uncertain times. Perseverance was crucial because it helped me push through the hard times and stay committed to my goals despite challenges and setbacks. Lastly, being coachable and willing to learn from others allowed me to grow continuously and adapt to new situations, gaining valuable insights and skills along the way.
For those early in their journey, my advice is to nurture these qualities:
Cultivate a strong spiritual foundation and trust in God’s plan. This can provide direction and peace amid life’s uncertainties. Pray, reflect, and believe that things will work out as they are meant to according to God’s will.
Develop resilience by embracing challenges and viewing setbacks as opportunities for growth. Stay focused on your long-term goals, and remember that persistence often leads to success. Keep pushing forward, even when the path gets tough.
Remain open to feedback and eager to learn from others. Seek mentors and be willing to listen and adapt. Being receptive to new ideas and different perspectives will enhance your growth and broaden your horizons.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me was provide unwavering support, both while I was growing up and throughout my adult life. They allowed me the freedom to choose my own path, never imposing their own expectations on my choices. This trust and encouragement empowered me to pursue my passions and aspirations with confidence. Additionally, they equipped me with essential tools for success, such as resilience, a strong work ethic, and the ability to think critically. Their consistent belief in my potential and their willingness to let me navigate my own journey has been profoundly influential in shaping who I am today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.weliketosoftplay.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weliketosoftplay/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/weliketosoftplay/
Image Credits
Steven G Photography
Terica B Photo
Amber Rose Imagery
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