We recently connected with Fatima Barnes and have shared our conversation below.
Fatima, thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts with us today. We’re excited to dive into your story and your work, but first let’s start with a broader topic that might be stopping many of our readers from pursuing their dreams – haters, nay-sayers, etc. How have you managed to persist despite haters and nay-sayers that inevitably follow folks who are doing something unique, special or off the beaten path?
Persisting despite the presence of haters and nay-sayers is about staying focused on my vision and purpose. While it’s inevitable to encounter negativity along the way, I’ve learned not to feed into negative energy. Instead, I choose to remain compassionate and understanding, recognizing that those who criticize usually are dealing with their own journey and insecurities. I’m a simply a mirror projecting it back unto them. It is for this reason, I don’t take it personally anymore on my journey. It’s not a reflection on me.
Understanding this, I prioritize directing my energy towards positivity and growth, rather than engaging with negativity. I firmly believe that you’ll never be criticized by someone who is equally focused on their journey and purpose, making it clear that feeding into such energy is not worth my time or attention.
I remind myself that criticism often stems from misunderstanding or insecurity, and it’s essential not to let it derail my progress. Instead, I use it as fuel to propel myself forward, doubling down on my efforts and staying true to my convictions.
Moreover, surrounding myself with a supportive community of like-minded individuals has been invaluable. Their encouragement and positivity serve as a shield against negativity, reinforcing my belief in myself and my mission.
Ultimately, I choose to rise above the noise and focus on what truly matters – making a meaningful impact and achieving my goals. It’s a mindset that has served me well, allowing me to persevere through challenges and emerge stronger on the other side.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Absolutely! As a business strategist and mentor, my passion lies in empowering beauty brand owners to thrive in the competitive online landscape. What excites me most about my work is the opportunity to witness the transformative impact it has on individuals and their businesses. Helping entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of digital marketing and e-commerce, and witnessing their growth from struggling to thriving, is incredibly rewarding.
What sets my approach apart is the emphasis on holistic growth – not just in terms of revenue but also in achieving balance and fulfillment in both personal and professional aspects. I believe that success is not just about financial metrics but also about finding harmony and joy in what we do.
In terms of updates, I’m thrilled to share the Sell Like Hotcakes Incubator program for beauty brand owners. This program offers hands-on support, personalized guidance, and practical strategies to help participants navigate the nuances of online sales and marketing. Through access to a private community, group sessions, and tailored resources, participants receive the guidance and tools they need to elevate their businesses and achieve sustainable growth.
Additionally, I’m continuously expanding my network and exploring new avenues to connect with and support entrepreneurs in the beauty industry. Whether through speaking engagements, collaborations, or community-building initiatives, I am committed to creating a nurturing and empowering environment for aspiring and established beauty brand owners alike.
Overall, my mission is to empower individuals to turn their passion for beauty into thriving, sustainable businesses while fostering a community of support and collaboration. I’m excited about the journey ahead and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of beauty entrepreneurs worldwide.
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?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities that have been most impactful are resilience, adaptability, and a growth mindset.
Resilience has been crucial in overcoming challenges and setbacks, allowing me to bounce back stronger and more determined than ever. It’s the ability to persevere in the face of adversity and keep moving forward, even when the path ahead seems uncertain.
Adaptability has also played a significant role, especially in the ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing and entrepreneurship. Being willing to embrace change, pivot when necessary, and continuously learn and evolve has been key to staying ahead of the curve and seizing new opportunities.
Lastly, cultivating a growth mindset has been transformative. It’s about seeing every experience, whether positive or negative, as an opportunity for learning and growth. Embracing a mindset of continuous improvement and believing in my ability to develop new skills and overcome challenges has been instrumental in my journey.
For those who are early in their journey, my advice would be to focus on developing these qualities:
Resilience: Understand that setbacks are a natural part of any journey, but it’s how you respond to them that matters most. Cultivate resilience by practicing self-care, seeking support from mentors and peers, and reframing challenges as opportunities for growth.
Adaptability: Stay open-minded and flexible in your approach. Be willing to experiment, iterate, and pivot as needed. Embrace change as an opportunity for innovation and evolution, rather than viewing it as a threat.
Growth Mindset: Adopt a mindset of continuous learning and improvement. Stay curious, seek out new experiences, and be proactive about expanding your knowledge and skills. Embrace challenges as opportunities to stretch and grow, rather than as obstacles to be avoided.
By focusing on these qualities and actively working to develop them, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the ups and downs of your entrepreneurial journey and ultimately achieve success.
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
One book that has profoundly impacted my personal and professional development is ‘Set Boundaries, Find Peace’ by Nedra Tawwab. In this insightful read, Tawwab offers invaluable guidance on setting healthy boundaries to cultivate a sense of peace and fulfillment in our lives.
One of the most valuable nuggets of wisdom from the book is the importance of recognizing and honoring our own needs and limitations. Tawwab emphasizes that setting boundaries is not selfish but rather an act of self-care and self-respect. By establishing clear boundaries, we create space to prioritize our well-being and pursue our goals without feeling overwhelmed or resentful.
Another impactful takeaway is the idea that boundaries are not fixed but rather fluid and adaptable. Tawwab highlights the importance of regularly reassessing and adjusting our boundaries as our circumstances and priorities evolve. This flexibility allows us to maintain a healthy balance between our personal and professional lives and navigate life’s challenges with greater ease.
Overall, ‘Set Boundaries, Find Peace’ offers practical strategies and empowering insights for anyone looking to cultivate healthier relationships, increase self-awareness, and create a more fulfilling life. It’s a book that has resonated deeply with me, and I continue to draw inspiration from its teachings in both my personal and professional endeavors.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ceocharmschool.com
- Instagram: @iamfatimabarnes_
- Facebook: Fatima Asaan Barnes
Image Credits
Antione Lever Stephanie Ramirez
