We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Lori Jones a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Lori, we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?
How did you develop your confidence and self-esteem?
Developing my confidence and self-esteem has been a multifaceted journey, deeply intertwined with the inception and growth of Blackology Coffee Company. This journey was not just about launching a business; it was about crafting a new identity for myself as a leader, a survivor, and a change-maker in the community. Here’s how I cultivated my confidence and self-esteem through this experience:
Facing Adversity with Courage: The initial challenge of being laid off during the COVID-19 pandemic tested my resilience. The decision to invest in my vision for Blackology, amidst such uncertainty, required a leap of faith. This act of courage was the first step in redefining my self-worth and capabilities, teaching me that my confidence could grow through facing and overcoming adversity.
Embracing My Story: As a survivor of domestic violence and sexual assault, embracing my story was crucial in developing my self-esteem. Launching Blackology during a significant cultural movement for racial justice allowed me to align my personal battles with a broader cause, lending a sense of purpose and empowerment. Sharing my story openly, especially as part of motivational speeches, further solidified my confidence, transforming my past into a source of strength rather than a shadow.
Setting and Achieving Goals: The process of building Blackology from the ground up, from gaining media attention just five days after launch to establishing it as a community staple, served as tangible evidence of my capabilities. Each goal achieved reinforced my belief in myself, proving that with determination and effort, I could realize my aspirations.
Cultivating a Growth Mindset: The entrepreneurial journey is rife with learning opportunities. By embracing new challenges and continuously seeking knowledge, I enhanced not only my business acumen but also my self-esteem. Each new skill acquired and each problem solved bolstered my confidence, demonstrating that growth and self-improvement are perpetual.
Fostering Community and Seeking Support: Building a network of support through Blackology, engaging with the community, and connecting with others on similar journeys nurtured my sense of belonging and self-worth. This support system was instrumental in developing my self-esteem, reminding me that I was not alone and that my efforts were making a tangible impact.
Positive Affirmations and Self-Reflection: The practice of positive self-talk and regular self-reflection became cornerstones of my daily routine. They helped me combat negative thoughts, focus on my strengths, and maintain a positive outlook on my journey. This practice of affirming my value and reflecting on my progress was key to brewing my confidence over time.
Overcoming Fear: Lastly, confronting and navigating through fears, whether it was the fear of failure or the unknown, was essential in developing resilience. Each challenge faced and overcome taught me that obstacles were not insurmountable but opportunities to learn, grow, and strengthen my self-belief.
In essence, developing my confidence and self-esteem has been akin to the process of brewing coffee—requiring patience, care, and the right conditions to flourish. Just as Blackology Coffee Company has grown and evolved, so too has my confidence and self-esteem, through a continuous process of self-discovery, resilience, and community engagement. This journey has taught me that confidence is not a fixed trait but a quality that can be cultivated, one step at a time.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Hey y’all! I’m Lori, your guide to a life where country charm meets city sophistication, and every day is an opportunity to savor the little things that make life truly special. My journey is a delightful blend of passions, from the aromatic delight of brewing the perfect cup of coffee to the joy of cooking, where I mix rustic, farm-fresh ingredients with a sprinkle of gourmet finesse. It’s here, in the warmth of my kitchen, that I express my creativity and my love for the finer things in life.
But my world doesn’t just revolve around the kitchen. I’m thrilled to share that I’ve embarked on a new adventure as the Culinary Apprentice Program Manager for one of the largest non-profit organizations in North Carolina, the Inter-Faith Food Shuttle. This role is a dream come true, allowing me to blend my love for cooking with my deep-seated values of giving, cultivating, growing, and teaching. These principles are at the core of who I am, guiding me as I work to make a meaningful impact in the community.
In this new capacity, I’m ecstatic to nurture aspiring chefs, share my passion for culinary arts, and contribute to a cause that’s close to my heart. The opportunity to play a part in someone else’s journey, to help them grow and succeed, is incredibly fulfilling. It’s a testament to my belief that food is more than sustenance; it’s a medium through which we can spread joy, enrich lives, and bring people together.
Cooking for me has always been about more than just the food; it’s about the stories shared and the memories made. My dream has always been to extend this warmth and love beyond my kitchen. Now, with my role at the Inter-Faith Food Shuttle, I get to do just that on a larger scale. Imagine a place where the coffee always brews, the kitchen is always warm, and every gathering is an opportunity to make a difference.
Beyond my professional endeavors, my world is enriched by the pages of books and the words I write, each story a new adventure, every word a piece of my soul. Travel, especially to the tranquility of the mountains, paints my life with broad strokes of beauty and serenity, reminding me of the vastness and splendor of our world.
At the core of everything I do is my love for connecting with people. Whether it’s through shared meals, stories under the stars, or moments of quiet companionship, these are the treasures of my life. I’m all about embracing every moment with loved ones, nurturing the bonds that form the heartbeat of my existence.
So, welcome to my corner of the internet—a place where every cup of coffee is an invitation to connect, every meal is a celebration, and every story shared is a treasure. I invite you to join me on this journey, where we’ll explore the beauty of blending the rustic with the refined, where every day is an opportunity to create something beautiful together, and where we can make a meaningful impact in the world. Let’s make the most of this beautiful journey, savoring each moment and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Welcome to the world of Lori, where country chic, heartfelt warmth, and a commitment to making a difference blend to create a life filled with joy, creativity, love, and purpose.
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?
Reflecting on my journey, three pivotal qualities stand out as the bedrock of my success: resilience, the courage to take calculated risks, and a steadfast commitment to putting God first, underscored by a foundation of love and giving. These elements have not only shaped my path but have also illuminated the way forward, offering both solace and strength through the myriad challenges and triumphs.
*Resilience and Creativity: Life, much like cooking, often requires a dash of creativity to turn the simplest ingredients into a masterpiece. The ability to be resilient, to face setbacks with a spirit of innovation and determination, has been instrumental. It’s about more than bouncing back; it’s about weaving your challenges into your narrative, making them stepping stones rather than stumbling blocks. For those early in their journey, my advice is to embrace every challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow. Cultivate your creativity not just as a skill but as a mindset, allowing you to see beyond the immediate hurdles to the vast possibilities that lie ahead.
*Taking Calculated Risks: The path less traveled is often the route to genuine discovery. Taking calculated risks has been a vital component of my journey, pushing me to explore uncharted territories, whether it’s experimenting with a complex recipe or stepping into a new role that stretches my abilities. The key is in the word ‘calculated’—it’s about making informed decisions, weighing the potential against the peril, and always being prepared for the outcome. For those starting out, I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone, but do so with wisdom and preparation. Risk-taking is an art that requires both courage and discernment.
*Putting God First and Operating in Love and Giving: At the core of everything I do is my faith and the principle of operating from a space of love and giving. Putting God first has not only provided direction but has imbued my journey with purpose and grace. It’s a reminder that we’re part of something greater and that our actions should reflect the love and generosity we wish to see in the world. For anyone at the beginning of their path, remember that success is not just measured by what you achieve but by the impact you have on others. Cultivate a heart of giving, and let your actions be guided by love and faith. This foundation will not only lead you to fulfillment but will also inspire those around you.
In summary, these qualities are not just skills to be developed but are reflections of the heart and mind. Resilience, risk-taking, and a life anchored in faith and love are powerful forces that can drive you toward your goals. Embrace them, nurture them, and let them guide you as you forge your own path. Remember, the journey is as important as the destination, and these qualities will ensure that it’s a journey worth taking.
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?
When reflecting on the journey and the forces that have propelled me forward, overcoming challenges and building the essential skills, qualities, or knowledge needed for success, two pivotal sources of support stand out: God and my incredible community of loving, giving, and unique individuals.
*God First: Placing God at the center of everything has been my guiding light. It is through faith that I’ve found the strength to face challenges with resilience and grace. God’s guidance has been a constant reminder that I am never alone, even in the most daunting moments. This unwavering faith has not only helped me overcome obstacles but has also shaped my perspective on success, making it a journey that’s as much about spiritual growth as it is about achieving goals. It’s a relationship that has provided both comfort and challenge, pushing me to grow beyond what I thought possible while ensuring that my values remain intact.
*My Community: Behind every challenge I’ve faced, there’s been a network of incredible individuals who’ve offered their support, wisdom, and encouragement. This community—comprising family, friends, mentors, and even strangers who’ve become part of my story—has been instrumental in my growth. Their love and generosity have been a source of strength, offering both practical assistance and emotional sustenance. This unique tapestry of people, each contributing in their way, has helped me develop the skills and qualities essential for success. They’ve taught me the importance of giving, the strength found in diversity, and the power of collective support.
These pillars of support—my faith in God and my community—have not just helped me navigate challenges; they’ve been the bedrock of my development and success. They remind me that the journey is not solitary but a shared experience, enriched by the contributions of each individual who walks alongside us. For anyone looking to build and develop their path to success, remember the importance of nurturing both your spiritual foundation and your relationships. It’s in these connections that we find the true strength to overcome and the inspiration to grow.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.blackology.coffee
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/blackologycoffeecompany
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/blackologycoffeecompany
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/lori-jones-blackology/
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/@BlackologyCoffeeCompanyLLC
- Other: www.tiktok.com/blackologycoffeecompany
Image Credits
Main image by my childhood friend John Guess owner of JHG Photography. Best Friend Shalisa Clifton Mental Health, First Aid Educator and Counselor Good friend and author of “Before 8:45am” My sisterhood circle of “Women Entrepreneurs United” created by my beautiful sister in Christ Dr. Laticia Nicole Beatty
