We recently connected with Latasha Brooks and have shared our conversation below.
Latasha, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
I’ve made it a personal mission to stand out in any room I enter, leaving a lasting impact wherever I go. As a government contractor in a predominantly male-dominated sector, I’ve fine-tuned strategies to thrive even as the sole representative who looks like me. Embracing my unique viewpoint has been instrumental, enabling me to bring fresh insights and innovative approaches to the table. Establishing a robust support network of mentors and peers has offered invaluable guidance, while continuous learning and professional growth have ensured my competitiveness. Assertiveness and self-assurance have played a pivotal role, granting me the ability to articulate my ideas effectively. Advocating for diversity and inclusion within the industry is a driving force for me, fostering a more inclusive environment. Through resilience and acknowledging achievements, both large and small, I’ve not only achieved personal success but have also paved the way for a more diverse future in this field.
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?
In a pivotal moment, I became a full time small business owner, leaving my corporate job as a mother of two daughters and the wife of a retired marine. Faced with an ultimatum from my CEO and feeling limited in my corporate role, I embarked on a new path. This led to the creation of Coach Brooks Business Consulting, a minority and woman-owned firm in Fredericksburg, Virginia. Our mission is to empower clients with the tools for measurable success in all aspects of business, fostering self-awareness and accountability for enhanced satisfaction, happiness, and growth. We aim to guide individuals and organizations towards their best selves, with adaptable goals for long-term industry demands. Through this transition, I discovered the freedom to align my business with family values. I’m passionate about helping others navigate business ownership, committed to positive impact. Through Coach Brooks Business Consulting, I empower individuals to control their professional journey and find fulfillment by starting, growing or scaling their business. My personal experiences fuel this drive to make a difference, one client at a time.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Three critical aspects of my journey stand out: resilience, effective communication, and a commitment to continuous learning and adaptability. Resilience enabled me to overcome setbacks and thrive in the face of challenges. Sharp communication skills proved invaluable in conveying ideas and negotiating deals. Embracing lifelong learning and staying adaptable ensured I remained relevant in an ever-evolving business landscape. For those starting their journey, my advice is to cultivate resilience, sharpen communication abilities, commit to lifelong learning, and remain adaptable to change. Surrounding oneself with a supportive network of mentors and peers can also provide invaluable guidance and perspective. Keep in mind that every step, no matter how small, contributes to overall growth and success. Stay persistent, believe in your abilities, and remain open to learning from both triumphs and setbacks.
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
The individuals who have been most instrumental in helping me overcome challenges are undoubtedly my mentees, whom I’ve had the privilege of mentoring for over four years. This community has been an invaluable source of support, providing a safe space to share not only successes but also the inevitable hurdles and setbacks. Their feedback, insights, and camaraderie have been crucial in keeping me on track and holding me accountable to my goals. Their enduring presence in my journey has made a significant impact on my ability to navigate and surmount challenges effectively.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.latashabrooks.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moneybaggs623/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneybaggs623/?show_switched_toast=1&show_switched_tooltip=0&show_podcast_settings=0
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/mwlite/in/latasha-brooks-417a95b1
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/moneybaggs623
- Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@moneybaggs623?lang=en
Image Credits
Devin Mickens
