We’re looking forward to introducing you to Ms. TERRY NORWOOD. Check out our conversation below.
TERRY, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
This year started off with thrilling opportunities for my company, The R.I.S.E. Concept. I looked forward to the potential growth. Each month, however, gave way to overwhelming fear of how to manage it. In April, I came across a quote and taped it to my desk. “When you can’t control what’s happening, challenge yourself to control the way you respond to it”. This quote is adapted from Epictetus and often used by Lisa Nichols. I am proud to find a way to manage my thoughts which thus becomes my superpower.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
As the Executive Director of The R.I.S.E. Concept, I believe individuals thrive when they are empowered to use their unique skills. This concept is not unique, but it is difficult to implement as a company mission statement. The R.I.S.E. Concept is a community hub that offers resources in support of empowerment. I cannot possibly do everything at the organization; therefore, I must empower others to utilize their skills. Empowering and creating opportunities for others supports our growth.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
Having a business that is successful when you put people first is rewarding. This is a new feeling for me. It caused me to ponder the difference between confidence and power. It may seem strange to say I have gained confidence from my power.
Power influences others while confidence influences oneself. As with most things in life, will you use your power for good or evil? We know power for evil is only beneficial for one person. Power for good is beneficial for many people. My power word is focus (controlling the way I respond). Kindness is the word at The RISE Concept. I walk around the store at times saying #kindness, so we know to FOCUS on what makes us stronger.
Life has been crowded with opportunities. I lost sight of my power word. I am someone who feels we create our own balance. Balance is personal, subjective, and custom to an individual. Many opportunities will be presented to each of us throughout our lives, but not all opportunities need to be acted upon at first presentation. My opportunities coming at me quickly became challenges so I made time to focus and write them down. This is my way of using my power word to feel confident.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
Having the ability to operate a business with a goal of cause over cash is daring. At times, I fear that I have the ability to manage how I think people will thrive. I feel passionately about my intention and know I am capable. Yet fear looms. Doing something different is scary. It is what builds your confidence and power though. It is my love of repurposing products and passion for encouraging others that makes me realize a resale store is the perfect fit for my personality. It gives me the opportunity to develop an environment where individuals’ skills are acknowledged and a culture where individuals can embrace their true-self.
Being patient as I walk through the valley of fear showed me I am resilient. Taking time to evaluate the store growth helped me see the benefits of staying focused. Not only have the number of volunteers tripled in three years, the sales have tripled. Donor and customer contributions have increased as well.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The biggest lie my industry tells itself is the business with the most money wins. Yet, many people are not happy. I contend that when you take a deep look at someone who is unhappy, you will find lack of confidence. What is missing is fulfillment. People are hardwired to have a purpose and community. Extroverts and even introverts need a sense of connection. It doesn’t have to be full of conversation or constant physical touch. It is the sense of belonging that drives people to work whether for pay or as a volunteer. When you feel worthy, both power and confidence rise, pun intended. Thus, self-worth increases your performance personally and professionally.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I believe from time to time we wonder if we have made a difference. This does not mean we do not feel confident. It is a power-check. Considering what others think about us shows empathy. The need to feel appreciated is instinctive. My personal goal is to ensure people I encounter feel heard and seen. They may not remember my name and that’s ok. It’s how I made them feel that matters even if it is for a short time. Perhaps, my legacy will remain with a few people who then make a difference in someone else’s life; to paraphrase Margaret Meade, this is the only thing that matters.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.theriseconcept.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theriseconcept/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D#
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/209757717631617
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/rise-resale-shop-san-diego
