We recently connected with Lyneè Urban and have shared our conversation below.
Lyneè, 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?
My confidence comes from a deep-seated belief in my abilities and the value I can bring. It’s fueled by two things: my faith and the unwavering support I received from my parents.
My faith gives me a sense of purpose and the belief that every experience, positive or negative, shapes who I am. It allows me to see challenges as opportunities for growth and doors closing as openings to new possibilities. This mindset ensures I approach every situation with confidence, knowing I deserve to be there and have something to contribute.
My parents instilled in me the value of equality. They taught me that everyone deserves respect, regardless of background. This upbringing, coupled with my faith, empowers me to navigate diverse environments. I may be the only one who looks like me in a room, but I never feel out of place.
Instead of dwelling on discomfort, I focus on the value I can offer and the goals I’m determined to achieve. This allows me to stay focused and motivated in any situation.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
My journey to entrepreneurship wasn’t linear. As a young woman, I envisioned a career in psychology, solving complex problems to help others. Life, however, had other plans. An unplanned pregnancy during college threatened to derail my dreams.
But facing adversity head-on became my defining moment. Raising my daughter while completing my degree instilled in me an unwavering resilience and a newfound understanding of success. It wasn’t just about achieving a specific career path; it was about overcoming challenges and building a fulfilling life.
This newfound perspective naturally spilled over into my professional life. After years in corporate America, I felt a pull towards helping businesses grow. It combined my desire to support others with a creative spark I hadn’t explored before.
In 2019, I took a leap of faith, leaving my corporate role to join a small, women-owned business. My passion for brand building and strategic thinking resonated with them, and within three years, I became a partner. The entrepreneurial spirit was contagious, and together, we identified a unique opportunity.
At the beginning of 2024, we spun off the custom products division, creating Ellevie Custom. Now, I get to combine my passion for psychology – understanding human desires – with brand strategy to help businesses create impactful custom products for their customers. It’s incredibly fulfilling, and I’m excited to see how Ellevie Custom evolves in the years to come.
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?
Maya Angelou’s words, “People will forget what you said, they’ll forget what you did, but they’ll never forget how you made them feel,” perfectly captures the essence of the three skills that have propelled me forward: active listening, empathy, and integrity.
Active listening goes beyond simply hearing words. It’s about truly paying attention, understanding the underlying emotions, and putting my own agenda aside. When I can do this, people feel valued and heard. This leads to stronger relationships, fosters trust, and ultimately, greater success in all aspects of life.
Empathy, the ability to see the world from another’s perspective, builds upon active listening. It allows me to connect with people on a deeper level, anticipate their needs, and tailor my approach accordingly. In business, this is invaluable. Whether building rapport with clients or collaborating with colleagues, empathy fosters trust and collaboration.
In today’s world, honesty and integrity are paramount. Building a reputation for doing the right thing, even when unseen, fosters a level of trust that transcends one-time transactions. Clients know they can rely on me, and that fosters long-term partnerships.
For anyone looking to hone these skills, I recommend surrounding yourself with individuals who exemplify them. Observe their approach, ask questions, and learn from their experiences. The company you keep plays a vital role in your growth. Having a support system that encourages and holds you accountable is key to mastering these invaluable assets.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
As a mom of three girls, a wife, and an owner of two businesses, life can get very stressful and overwhelming. When it does, I do two things. First, I take a mindful breather. Just a few seconds of deep breathing, eyes closed, centers me. It’s a reminder that the to-do list isn’t everything, and what truly matters will get done in due time. This quick reset calms my mind and allows me to approach challenges with renewed focus.
Second, I embrace the power of delegation. For a long time, I held onto the misconception that I had to do it all myself, fearing I’d burden others. However, I’ve learned people are often happy to help when asked. Delegating tasks, whether to my husband, the kids, or my team, frees up my time and mental space to focus on what truly needs my attention.
By prioritizing these two practices, I find a healthy balance amidst the whirlwind. It’s a constant dance, but these strategies allow me to be present for my family, manage my businesses effectively, and – most importantly – breathe!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.EllevieCustom.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/elleviecustom
- Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/lyneeurban
