Chew on this....If you don't build YOUR dream, someone will hire you to help build THEIRS!
Which would you prefer?
This weekend I was fortunate enough to be a witness. I got to see a number of black women entrepreneurs at the 2015 Black Women's Expo at the McCormick Place in Chicago. Women from all over the country came to show off their products and services to thousands of attendees, there to support minority-owned businesses.
The expo had everything from hair seminars to conversations on "Light Girls" and "Dark Girls," spoken word and musical performances, fashion shows and of course vendors and their booths.
I attended a seminar about Hustling Mommies, where the panel of successful black mothers discussed balancing their life as a hustler, building their business, while mastering the never ending task of parenthood. Being a mother now of two, and aspiring to launch a business this year - this discussion really hit home for me.
A few key take aways:
1) Organization is key! Lord, knows I need major help in this area! SMH. Things like packing the kids and your lunch at night. Ironing and setting out clothes the night before. Keeping things where they belong so they're easy to find when you need it. Homework, computer bag, backpacks, your wallet and keys are simple things that if put away properly, will make getting out of the house easier and limit wasted time.
Beyond the basics, having a notebook that you carry on you so that you can keep all your business ideas in one place is important for me. Let's face it, those type of ideas come at the most random times so you need to be prepared. Also, keep a business card on you at all times. I ended up passing out a few cards at the Expo, one being to a panelist that had a business in the same space I want to be in. The best thing about being organized is that you'll always be ready and prepared for an opportunity that presents itself unexpectedly.
2) Learn how to say "No" and not feel guilty about it. Women tend to apologize often, especially when they have to deliver a response that may displease a child, co-worker or family member. One of the panelist said something I will never forget, "No, is a complete sentence. It requires no explanation." The next time your boss wants you to work on the weekend to get a project done and you have your own personal endeavors to focus on, politely tell them, " No, I'm unable to." Period. When your child asks for his third Spider-Man action figure or a happy meal from McDonald's, only to get a toy, kindly tell them, "No." End of discussion.
3) Don't believe in limits! Boy oh boy, how many times have you heard, "Aren't u too old for that?" Or "You're a mother now, that ship has sailed" and my favorite - "Black people don't do that." Always remember, things happen when they are supposed to happen. When your season comes you'll know it, don't let anyone try to limit what you know, you are capable of doing. You know yourself better than anyone. Remember, God will bless you, when you are prepared to do something with his blessing!
Other highlights from the expo, Lil' Mo did an interview about her current show on R&B Divas and her new book, "Taming Lil' Mo". I have to say she looked great in person, flawless. And her glasses
were everything, I'm just saying.
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| People used to say I look like Lil' Mo, what y'all think? Lol Other highlights: Had a ball with my cuzzos, the original ride or die crew, just missing my sis who's getting money in TN. Love these girls, we consistently inspire each other to be great! 
We saw lots of clothing and accessory vendors.
Sat in on a conversation about Black women and our influence on media. Found out we are media mavens and what we choose to do or not do as a consumer can have a huge impact on the economy.
Ran into our cousin, owner of Wham Bam Glam Boutique, check her out on FaceBook
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