Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jan Jackson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Jan, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Impostor Syndrome is something that we now have words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Imposter syndrome is something I struggled with for the majority of my life. I would be in spaces, at tables, and in rooms wondering, “How did I get here?” I would often question why people wanted to know my thoughts and ideas, and anxiety became a constant companion. Now, I know that most often it is purpose and God’s favor that opens doors for me to share who I am and what I’m about. I’m a wealth of knowledge, an asset to people, and a pretty big deal if I do say so myself! I continue to overcome imposter syndrome by reminding myself that what’s for me is for me, and no one (including me) can get in the way of that. I also practice showing up to every opportunity as my authentic self and I lean into my values of inclusion, respect, and belonging. There are still times when I battle with fear, but I move forward and do it scared. Typically, once I’ve executed something I realize it wasn’t as hard as I thought.
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 am the founder and creative director of the Bella Grind Brand based in Atlanta, GA. My mission is for black women to have a space where their voices will be elevated and their stories celebrated via the Bella Grind Podcast, other media platforms, inspirational apparel, and empowerment events. The Bella Grind Podcast and Magazine is a space for black women’s voices to be elevated and celebrated. Bella Grind Apparel is empowerment clothing with positive messages of self-love, awareness, and POWER. Fashion is a true form of expression, and this capsule is for the woman who lives out loud and stands boldly in her truth. Bella Grind Alliance is an outreach initiative to give back to others via signature events, service projects, mentoring, and speaking engagements. I’m also an educational leader and community leader in metro Atlanta known for my work with community engagement and wraparound support for educators, children, and families.
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?
It’s important to have a growth mindset which is the belief that you can always be developed, and your abilities can be cultivated through hard work and dedication. I also believe a spirit of inquiry is important. Always be willing to ask questions and learn in every situation. The old adage, “There is no dumb question” is true. I firmly believe we all should have an inquisitive nature. Lastly, know your strengths and use them to advance yourself often.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
I put together an awesome team of folks to help me develop my skills and overcome challenges. My mentor is the first key person I go to when faced with challenges or simply in need of a thought partner. It’s necessary to have people in your life who have been where you are trying to go and can provide wisdom and insight. My mentor stands in the gap for me in this way and is always a phone call away. I also have a life coach who motivates me in my work by providing guidance and inspiration. Her role is important because it helps me keep my rhythm and to hang in there when it gets hard. Lastly, THERAPY is a game changer. I strongly encourage everyone to seek therapy to become attuned with their needs for mental health.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.bellagrind.com
- Instagram: bella_grind_
- Facebook: Bella Grind
- Youtube: Bella Grind TV
Image Credits
Skyy Wonders Photography
