We were lucky to catch up with Pam Harjo recently and have shared our conversation below.
Pam, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
As a single mom and product of the foster care system, I often don’t look like anyone else at the table, but I refuse to shrink just because I look different. We all belong in the room. You have to own that, even on hard days – especially on the hard days. I learned to be successful by believing I’m capable even when voices from my past echo that I’m not. Through faith, consistency, and diligence, I grew skills and found my own voice. Thriving is an ongoing practice for me. Believing I can is always the first step, it gives me strength to push through difficult situations. Perseverance is next. I work hard and continue pushing forward, developing and sharpening skills which in turn strengthens my faith in myself and the process. That’s what I call success, declaire you can, know that you can, then go prove it! No need to focus on anyone else in the room other than yourself.
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’ve been a business owner for most of my adult life. Following a very long divorce I found myself at rock bottom and had to find ways to make ends meet. I worked an office job by day and served cocktails by night until I gathered enough confidence and funds to open my own business again. One door led to another and within a few years I was helping build a company from the ground up. We have now expanded to other markets, enjoying a massive growth phase in three states. My strongest and most enjoyable skill is relationship building. I consider myself more of a communication strategist, I’ve never met a stranger and I find value in every person’s story. I have been in the sales industry for 20 years, but it’s not about the sale, it’s about the people and what I can do to help improve their quality of life. I grew up in poverty and I’m well aware that money isn’t everything, but I’m not too shy or too naive to say that growing an income improves our lives. I want to help with that. I’m thankful for the good food and adventures a higher income provides me and my family and I wish that for everyone. My growth strategies are currently centered on unique advertising placement; helping companies with their marketing plans and getting their brands in front of millions of prospective customers each year. I’m enjoying helping others grow their brand as I grow mine.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I find value in my education. I fought through a divorce the same time I fought for my Masters degree, I honor that. However, it wasn’t in the classroom where I gained the most knowledge. I learned the most through the people I surrounded myself with. Someone introduced me to Jim Rohn’s quote, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” That hit me hard. I had to reevaluate who I was giving my energy to. I continue to be protective of my space to this day. I joined small groups in my community. I also decided to seek mentors, sometimes in authors like Jim Rohn and Brené Brown. I also sought out successful entrepreneurs to interview. It’s true what they say, “it’s lonely at the top,” and successful people want to help you up the mountain. I found it beneficial to learn from them, they’ve already paved the way, all we have to do is listen. Feed your mind helpful, positive, and motivational content as you continue to seek tools to improve your skills. Limit the naysayers and negativity. Including your own inner voice.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
Delegate! You don’t have to do it all on your own, including chores around the house. I hired a lawn service after talking to a mentor of mine who reminded me I was wasting time and energy trying to keep up with the yard instead of utilizing it for my business. My lawn service (and the price) haven’t changed over the last 6 years, but my income has doubled. Coincidence? Maybe, but regardless, it matters where you choose to place your energy and being overwhelmed might be a nudge for change, don’t be afraid to ask for help. It doesn’t mean you’re giving up control but it does mean you’re ready to grow.
Even with help, we can feel overwhelmed. In those moments, I’ll take a step back. If I can’t leave the office, I’ll get on the floor and take a few deep breaths. Close my eyes or stare at the ceiling. I have some quotes written under my desk specifically for days like these. I also enjoy walking, yoga, journalling, and gardening. Find what works for you. What movement do you enjoy, what breathing techniques work best, and how can you connect to the earth? All it takes is a few minutes to recenter.
Image Credits
Jamie Stocks ig @jamie.stocks jamiestocks.com
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