While Navigating The Road
Starting JVB Consults wasn’t an easy road to travel. In the midst of a global pandemic, in a shifting economy, amongst political unrest, and so much more, I decided to start what we all know now to be JVB Consults. I had innumerable concerns: Is the market too saturated? Is there space for me? Is now that right time? How do I ensure authenticity during a time when so much seems false? As I navigated this well-worn road to start my business, I reminded myself of several things:
You might feel alone;
But you’re not alone. Many people had driven these roads before me, and most of them had similar worries. Some had car trouble, some drove too fast, but most had to stop and ask for directions at some point. I even reached out to old mentors, I read books, I watched interviews, the list goes on. Drawing from the past, I created a toolbox that I could always bring with me. The past can be a friend – a reminder that I can get through any difficulty that may seem impossible.
The road is challenging;
But you’ve been in that driver’s seat before. When I realized that my whole life was a map that led me to this opportunity, it brought me a sense of calmness and recentered me. Challenges are opportunities for growth, so I try to embrace them and learn from them. When I feel overwhelmed by problems, I settle back into my own guiding principles that never let me down: Class, Gratitude, Integrity, & Intention. You, too, have that space within that will always feel like you’re centered.
Stay in your lane;
My lane is tied to my map and my guiding principles. If I’m presented with situations in which it’s impossible for me adhere to my guiding principles, then I remove myself from those situations. I honor my journey by being true to my gifts. I honor my peers by focusing my energy on myself, my team, and my clients. I wish people outside my lane the best, knowing that joy can be found in wanting the best for others, too.
Pause is Opportunity;
You’re going to encounter some stop signs. In driver’s education, we learned about a three second pause. That pause isn’t passive, though. During the pause, you were taught to observe your surroundings and analyze the traffic flow. Essentially, while you’re sitting at the stop sign you have a beautiful opportunity to learn. A pause doesn’t mean that you won’t get to where you need to be on time, and it certainly doesn’t mean an end to the road.
Greater Good;
Once, when I was a passenger in a foreign country, I saw how cars would merge in a perfect zipper pattern. One car in the left lane would go, then one car in the right lane, then the car in the left lane, and so on. I realized that this created movement and opportunity was for everyone. This was for the greater good. I’ve seen people rush ahead, single-minded, unyielding, uncaring, unaware of the greater good. However, what excites me is the legacy of team-work, connectedness, togetherness, conscientiousness.
I feel privileged to be a guide on my clients’ journeys – to lead, to merge, to yield. As I continue my trip ahead, I gain more clarity which helps my clients see their vision. At the end of the day, I have my map, my principles, and my toolbox by my side.