Too many of us grew up only seeing one kind of boss or leader in the media. The lack of representation for other groups reinforced harmful stereotypes and acted as a self-fulfilling prophesy, but would our opinion of what a leader looks like be different if the media did a better job at representing the true diversity of leadership in America?
Women and other under-represented groups are already leading many great companies, organizations, & academic institutions; others are authoring best-sellers, building engaged audiences, leading movements and more.
We had the honor of connecting with many of the best and brightest female leaders from in and around the city and we asked them our question of the month: What is the best advice you have for someone who feels like they are facing insurmountable odds.
We encourage you to check out the female leaders we’ve highlighted below, follow them on social media if you find their work or story interesting and most importantly do your part to #fightstereotypes.
Lauren Elyse S. | Artist & Story Teller
My thoughts are that insurmountable is the label we put on things that scare us, that challenge us, that oppose us – and that it requires us to find a creative solution or new way forward. Sometimes insurmountable things are real, like social systems that ignore, abuse, or undermine us, other times it’s the voice of doubt that’s been programmed into us. Maybe a combination of the two. If you can step back and gain perspective I think there’s always an approach that will get you where you want to go. You just have to understand that “insurmountable” situations will demand you to rise to the occasion. It’s not going to be easy, but few things that are worth it ever are. And never be afraid to fail, or to ask for help. Failure is the greatest teacher you’ll ever have, and the strongest bonds we can make are when we’re feeling down trodden and realizing that there really are people around you who will go into battle for and with you. Things seem less insurmountable in life when you have a solid group of people you can trust and who truly understand you. Be there for them, and let them be there for you.
laurenelyseart.com
@laurenelyseart
Ashley Powell | Student & Creator
The best advice I’ve to have for someone who is facing a challenge that they feel is insurmountable is to keep a positive mindset. The energy you put out in the world is the energy you will get back. You will attract what you think about, so think positive and healthy energy will come your way.
Jessica Mazzo | Spiritual Guide and Tarot Reader
First, know that you’re not alone. When problems feel insurmountable it’s common to shut down and/or feel like you have to force a solution because you’re focusing your energy on “fixing” or “getting over” the challenge. Start with what you know. Write down all the aspects of this challenge, along with the obstacles you sense you’re facing. Next, write how/why you feel that way and reflect on challenges you have previously overcome. Begin to explore the skills and resources you currently have and the ones you previously utilized, this gets momentum flowing and supports you in shifting away from the problem and into the solution! Facing challenges is an opportunity to identify your inner-strength and creative expression. Your pace and approach will be unique to you! Be sure to reach out to family, friends, and co-workers that support your progress.
@Jess_the_Empress
magicalsoulhealing.com
Nicole Picard | Fitness professional and Dancer
When a challenge feels tough to overcome for me, I take a step back and remember that every setback is a set-up for a comeback. Looking at the big picture sometimes can be daunting and overwhelming, but breaking a big challenge into smaller, simpler steps can make most challenges seem more manageable. What helps me is to connect with my “why” – my purpose, what gets me out of bed in the morning. The human spirit is resilient and unstoppable when we are truly connected to what fuels us. We are brave and unstoppable when we tackle a challenge with heart and passion versus fear. But you have to believe in yourself, that’s the real secret.
@nickypicss
nicolepicard305fitness.com
Jane Kuo Yu Chou | Tax consultant
Nothing is impossible!” was my answer when I was chatting with a Navy service member two decades ago. At that time, we were talking about different challenges we were going through while stationed in Naples, Italy.
Our mind is such a power tool. It can build or destroy us. It all starts with one thought. I have faced many confrontations in my days, and I overcame them not only by my own merits, but also with the help of good people who came along the way. Each trial exists for a reason. They open opportunities for us to know our worth. Also, it’s a time to see if we can get back up, achieving it either by educating ourselves or seeking help from other resources. Drawing on the new info and new angles, that is where the threat becomes less of a test. The provocation can be met with a cool head and a calm mind. This can be attainable – you just have to trust in yourself and that things will work out. That is half the battle, and the rest will fall into place.
Gretchell Mafong | Travel/Lifestyle Photographer
My process when things start to feel like they are too great to overcome – 1. I remind myself why I’m doing it all in the first place, 2. look at the bigger picture (sometimes literally because… photography editing hehe) and 3. tell myself ‘Challenge Accepted!!’. I’m not always the most confident person, I tend to second guess myself A LOT. It’s a mental challenge I deal with everyday. Year after year, it STILL seems to be a goal of mine to fix that about myself. What I’ve learned from the process is that when you don’t naturally have confidence, but strive for it, comes bravery. It takes guts to fight against what feels like something you can’t overcome. But at that moment it’s important to not give up! Be brave, take it step by step and do whatever it takes to beat it! Even if that means reaching out to people with experience for help, doing some research, or maybe even taking a little break to clear your mind. Only you will know what would be the next best step for you. The hard parts are part of the process. What you decide to do in those moments will define you – make it count!’
Rosy Nadikuda | Former Cartographer | Content creator | Fashion, Lifestyle & Beauty Influencer
Challenges brings the best out of you!
Life tests us in all possible ways to hit bad and raise self-doubts. I say feel the pain, stay calm, be in the worst situations, inhale all the difficulties, bear everything you can, talk to yourself, learn who exactly you are, face your fears and then bounce back with more positive energy, push back self-limiting beliefs and make all the efforts to overcome your challenges like a roaring lion and stay confident like you were never before.
There is nothing wrong facing challenges in life, its a sign that you are trying something new.
Never live with regrets, as you only live once!
Geannie Jordana | Chef and Youtube Cooking Show Host
I’ve come to realize that each challenge individuals are faced with, either hinder us or allow us to grow . What’s important is HOW we react and deal with each challenge. The best advice I’ve give to someone facing an insurmountable challenge would be just to first BREATHE . Breathe and become present of your surroundings ,your environment , and your mental state. Envision the mental state you wish to be at and how you will get there or what changes need to be made and then MAKE THE MENTAL SWITCH. First your mind then your actions will follow and become a habit then a new way of life. Use all your negative fears or emotions towards TACKLING and overcoming this challenge. Or even use those emotions to help ignite your passions and creativity! Don’t take everything too serious, do what truly makes you happy and at peace , and enjoy YOUR life !
@DanasDivineDishes
@danasdivinedishes
Erica Dumas | Personal Trainer & Nursing Student
Don’t. give. up! I mean really, don’t. Just because it seems difficult to achieve, or like everything is against you getting to where you want to be, doesn’t mean its the end. Sometimes it is just in the plan that the road there will be difficult. It will make you appreciate it when you finally achieve it, and it will cause you to think outside of the box to get there. Positivity, perseverance and grit are the qualities that will get you there you when your goals seem insurmountable. Don’t let yourself give up, don’t let anyone else or closed doors dictate your plans, this is what you want, so go out and achieve it, no matter what it takes!
startplantingseeds.com
@erricalynn
Melody Unique | Makeup Artist & Beauty Professional
The best advice I can give for someone who is facing challenges they feel are impossible to overcome, is to first stop everything they’re doing, drop it all, and breathe. Take a moment to get back into the proper mindset before taking any further action. Once they can tap into the mentality that they have the power to create their own reality and believe that they can achieve anything that makes their soul feel like singing, then they can truly be on the right path. The power is KNOWING that they can do it, and the world will unfold all of those possibilities for them with ease.
makeovermelody.wixsite.com/melodyuniqueartistry
@makeovermelody
Courtney Hermes | Adventure Seeker & Newborn Photographer
I’m a single mom of 3 boys, a NICU nurse, and I run my own photography business – so I’m well versed in facing challenges that I feel are insurmountable. A couple of years ago I was scrolling online, and saw a video where Oprah Winfrey was talking about how to get through life’s challenges. Her words really stuck with me, and I replay this quote in my head often:
“The way through the challenge is to get still and ask yourself, ‘What is the next right move?’ Not think about ‘Oooh, I got all of this to figure out.’ What is the next right move? And then from that space, make the next right move and the next right move…then you won’t be overwhelmed by it, because you know your life is bigger than that one moment.”
This advice has really helped me when I’m feeling overwhelmed and unsure, and I hope it helps other women too!
@coco_hermes
@simplycocophotography
simplycocophotography.com
Krista Pettiford | Author | Speaker | Podcaster & Host of Called Conference
Entrusted Women
When someone is facing a challenge they feel is insurmountable, my advice is to pause, prayer, ponder and then proceed.
By pause, I mean stop all action concerning the matter long enough to regain a sense of calm, confidence and control. Pray for clarity, wisdom, and direction and wait for the answers, trusting that you will receive the answers you need. Be open to hearing not just what you want but what you need. While still in pause mode, ponder what’s been revealed and how best to proceed. Be willing to do what’s right not just what best for you because what’s best for you at the time isn’t always right for you in the long run or for other people involved. Finally, proceed by doing the next right thing with confidence and courage.
kristapettiford.com
@kristapettiford
@kristapettifordpage
Teressa Wickham | Film Producer & General Manager
The best advice I have for someone facing a challenge they feel is insurmountable is to stop, breathe, collect your thoughts and take it one step at a time. Anything is possible if you are brave enough to take the first step.
@teressaw
@finalstoppictures
@wickykidstv
youtu.be/UGgjTzP2VMM
Mia Valdez | Instagram Strategist
Deena Cormier Photography
First, get a mentor and get plugged into a community. Don’t try to recreate the wheel, don’t try to figure something else out that someone has ALREADY figured out. If someone is on the other side of where you want to be, invest in their expertise, learn from their mistakes, and grow from their experience. Getting connected with like-minded individuals who are facing similar situations and who are striving towards overcoming will keep you encouraged and motivated.
The second part is to take one day at a time, one step at a time, one moment in time. Desmond Tutu said – “the only way to eat an elephant is one bite at a time.” and this holds true in life and in business. Everything seems overwhelming until you break it down into actionable steps. Focus on what needs to get done today, tomorrow, this week versus looking at everything that must be accomplished in order to overcome this challenge.
And lastly…keep going. You’re worthy of the good things, you’re worthy of the hard things, you’re worthy of your dreams!
mialaurenvac.com
@mrs.mialauren
strategy.mialaurenvac.com
Chanel Aguilar | International Project Manager & Import/Export Specialist
I’ve learned that part of being successful is learning to first acknowledge and accept the challenge that has been presented to you whether you choose to accept it or not is up to you but once you have acknowledged your challenge it stops being “UNKNOWN” and you start to lose the fear that has been created by that challenge. Our ability to succeed is all in our mental attitude; just as how we approach our lives in a positive way why not do the same for a challenge.
Look in a mirror and say “HEY, I’M THE BEST PERSON TO TACKLE THIS, I CAN DO IT” do it as often as you need to and eventually it will become part of your thinking pattern and automatic response to any new challenge you are faced with.
Always know that whatever it is that you are going through it will pass, and I can assure you that you will come out of this challenge smarter, improved, and tougher than before.
@chaniis89
linkedin.com/in/chanelaguilar
Lorena Delgado | Fashion Stylist & Sustainable Fashion Boutique Owner
As someone who has been a survivor of several traumas, I understand how challenging it can be to step out and put on a happy face when you feel life is crumbling. The best advice I can give someone is to take care of yourself. As women, we are nurturers by nature so helping others is a priority for most but what about the most important person, YOU. Self-care is imperative for your well-being. Whether it’s journaling your thoughts, yoga, meditation, exercise, intake of Vitamin D (very important), join a social group with like-minded individuals or talk to someone about how you are feeling. It’s okay, to be honest about your feelings. I can assure you, that insurmountable feeling will dissipate. Sometimes all you need is to journal your thoughts or saying them out loud to understand the root of the issue. It can be a scary thing to be vulnerable but you will be stronger because of it. Smile, you are a rare and beautiful jewel! Love -Lorena
@theeelorena
@chictowear
@chictowear
chictowear.com
poshmark.com/closet/chictowear
Adelia Carrillo | CMO of EventHi.io
When you are being faced with a challenge that seems insurmountable, you have to realize there is always a solution, even if it may not be the solution you want to face. When faced with these kinds of challenges, fear can set it, what I have done through each experience where I thought there was no way to move forward.
I did the following:
I allowed myself at least 24-48 hours max to feel and really connect with why I was feeling this way about this challenge. Then I would begin to strategize and look at every possible option to move forward. I would draft out three possible solutions and then speak with my team or with a mentor and use my best judgement of how to move forward. Many times it was usually fear of the unknown of how this obstacle was going to affect my company or decision, but the best thing about being an entrepreneur is facing those fears and doing something new. Failure is an option, as long as you learn from it, we will make mistakes but those mistakes make us better leaders, individuals and team members.
eventhi.io
@missadelia
@eventhi.io
Veronika | Gift shop owner | illustartor
Take a sigh, relax, look at the situation from a different angle.
Nothing is impossible, each goal has its own plan. actions and each problem requires certain solutions. Complex problems require more time and effort, The solution may not be obvious, but you can definitely find it!
etsy.com/shop/MugsAndPins
@mugs_and_pins
Odette Cressler | Recovery Guide and Positive Habit Builder
Reading the book: When Things Fall Apart by Pema Chodron really has helped me shift my perspective during times of adversity. If we choose to see challenges through the lens of opportunity and growth, everything changes. Asking better questions is key – try swapping: Why is this happening to me? for: What is this situation trying to teach me? Most lessons that need to be learned in our lives are presented to us in the form of a challenge. These will only continue to show up for us until we are open and willing to learn.
@theharmonytribe
theharmonytribe.com
Christin Corpus | Sociology Major | Influencer | Model | Trip Planner and Preschool Teacher
In my life there have been plenty of times I’ve felt that the ground beneath me was crumbling because whatever I was going through felt… well that bad. Even though I felt this way, I always believed that things like this needed to happen to remind me of how powerful I can be and muster up the strength within myself to get through it. There is an answer for everything and believe there is strength within yourself to find it.
Remember these few things:
1) Have courage. Nothing ventured nothing gained.
2) If you can’t find an answer, make one.
3) Not all things need to be resolve in that moment, think it through.
4) You can go as far as the limits you give yourself.
5) Lastly, for those that have trouble with Love and Relationships like myself…
You only have so many straws a person can pull from you till you have none left. You need to pull courage from within and realize the value within yourself to say, “I’ve had enough and I’m worth more than this.”
Ashley Abbott | beauty influencer and YouTuber
The best advice I could give to someone facing a challenge is to give it time to really skin and in so you can clearly think it though, take your time with it don’t try to rush things. Everything will happen at the right time for you.
@looksbyashleyyy
youtube.com/channel/UCuIluhuZeety9kDammvwChQ/featured
Luisa Renay | Photographer
I know the stereotypical answer would be to take a breathe and take a step back, but honestly I have felt that the best way to face a challenge is to ask yourself “why”. Start by free writing what your challenge is and why you are upset with yourself and with it. Then set it down and come back to it tomorrow and re read it. I promise you will look at it with new eyes and have answer. OR use that frustration and create!! Through paint, have a subject scream with some fabric, get weird with it. Sometimes the best way to get over the challenge is to face it with a new direction.
luisarenayphoto.com
@luisarenay
simplyeloped.com/elopement-packages/san-diego
Mya Mitchell
Seek out others who have had the same challenges…. friends , family or others….. understand the problem and how it relates to yourself and your beliefs…. be open to changing for the better…. but most of all believe in yourself! Stop just saying “I’ll be fine”…. when you really don’t know for sure…. ask for help and be open to others.
Dr. Kim Bell, DPT | Vertigo Expert Physical Therapist and Singer-Songwriter
The best way I have learned to overcome these undesirable feelings is to humble myself at the feet of the Lord Jesus Christ and ask Him to take over my life and guide me.
Literally, I have experienced instantaneous results when getting down on my knees and praying out loud with absolute sincerity, “Jesus, help me!”
It is important for someone facing a challenge that feels insurmountable is to remember that feelings are not always correct. With God, nothing is impossible!
betterbalanceinlife.com
vertigodetective.com
@TheBellMethod
yelp.com/biz/kim-bell-dpt-encinitas-3
linkedin.com/in/kim-bell-dpt-6b3522ab
youtube.com/channel/UCcJzrfpL3FLN0eujA_ZY99g
@kimbelldpt
Erin Mullaney | Client Success Associate at the largest global health and wellness company
Don’t let your fear of failure keep you from leaning into the challenge. Practice humility and remember that you’re still learning something even if the process isn’t perfect.
Alyssa Gibson | Mom blogger | Photographer & Teacher
I will leave you simply with these two quotes from one of my favorite writer & poets,
“Remember the mountains and valleys that brought you here. Remember the things you never thought you would accomplish but did. You may have a long way to go but may you never discredit how far you have come. May you never forget you are still on a journey. May you always remember this endless, boundless grace, that will continue to find you over and over again.” -Morgan Harper Nichols
“Run brave into the depths my dear, there is no need for you to fear. Remember the strength you have been given and all the mountains that led you here.”-Morgan Harper Nichols
@ourgibsongirl
ourgibsongirl.com
@alyssagibson.photography
Kiaira Holman | food lover
Focus on the outcome and take it day by day! You are capable of more than you think!
Ashlynn Meyer | Interior Designer
If someone is feeling insurmountable, staying focused on the end goal is key. If you keep your mind focused on greater picture of overcoming the challenge, it will benefit you and you will grow from it either way. Mind over matter.
@ashlynnroseinteriors
pinterest.com/ashlynnroseinteriors
Lori Landry Reeves | Abstract Artist | Expressive Arts Therapist | Yoga Instructor
My advice is to first consider the quote from Carl Jung that inspires me. “Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life, and you will call it fate.”
Find a place of inner stillness and openness to identify the fear, self-doubt, or whatever is making the challenge feel insurmountable. Remove the inner critic, allow for creative expression free of judgment (we are all creative beings) and focus on allowing all to emerge while noticing your inner happenings, explore the inner dialogues and messages creatively. Dig deep to know more about your inner happenings, thoughts, feelings, and beliefs for clarity of all involved. Open oneself to the imaginal realm and your own creativity to allow for new perspectives, which can begin to bridge genuine possibilities to what seemed impossible. Listen to the gentle tugs and whispers and trust your inner wisdom. Seek and engage new vantage points of what is present and that which does not yet exist for more clarity. Ignoring such observations and processes makes us passengers and victims to life’s experiences. Also, do yourself a favor and surround yourself with people who know the significance of living with purpose and inspire alignment with your truth and strength.
LinkedIn: Lori Landry
@lorilandryart
lorilandry.com
Patricia Garcia | Realtor & Paralegal
Remember your why! This world teaches ONE to become complacent with society-be like “everyone else” But, you aren’t everyone else, you are YOU! Remember to not fear, let others talk about you, do not let the noise in. You, follow your dreams, surround yourself with others who are like minded to help you along the way. Set your determination. BE Committed!! Most are okay with not staying committed, because its easier to quit. If you quit, life will become hard, if you stay committed life will be a blessing, stay committed to you! Seek knowledge, knowledge is power! What you don’t know, you wont know… Read!! read a lot, wake up early, exercise your body and mind, to stay healthy.
Two of my favorite quotes I read everyday is, “IF YOU ALWAYS PUT LIMITS ON EVERYTHING YOU DO, PHYSICAL OR ANYTHING ELSE. It will spread into your work and into your life. There are NO limits. There are only plateaus, and you must not stay there, you must go beyond them – Bruce Lee; and the second one is “Accept responsibility for your life. Know that it is YOU who will get you where you want to go, no one else” – Les Brown
YourDreamHome619.com
@yourdreamhome619
@Making_the_Amercian_Dream
patricia-garcia-realtor-mrp-846362141
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