Welcome to Feature Fridays: Women in Business!
Every First Friday of the month, we are excited to shine a spotlight on the incredible women making a significant impact in the business world. From entrepreneurs and innovators to small business owners and industry leaders, these remarkable women are breaking barriers, inspiring others, and carving a path toward success.
Today I would love to introduce the lovely Marsha V. Watson who has a beautiful heart and is the owner of Divine Executive which is a one-stop destination for new and seasoned entrepreneurs. They specialize in providing Virtual Assistants (VA) to their clients to help streamline their business operations and maximize productivity.
What inspired you to start your business?
Starting Divine Executive was driven by my genuine passion for helping others and making a positive impact on their lives. I firmly believe in the value of support and assistance in the business world, which led me to create a platform that could provide entrepreneurs with the right resources and tools to succeed. My motivation goes beyond people-pleasing; it is about empowering individuals to achieve their goals and dreams. Witnessing the smiles on the faces of those I assist is immensely fulfilling, and it reinforces my dedication to making a difference in the entrepreneurial community. Divine Executive is not just a business; it's a heartfelt mission to uplift and inspire, one entrepreneur at a time.
Looking at where you are now what would you tell your younger self?
If I were to look back and advise my younger self, I would say, "Don't give up, no matter how tough the journey may seem. Embrace your emotions and understand that it's okay to cry; vulnerability is not a weakness but a sign of strength. Learn to set boundaries early on, as they are essential for maintaining your well-being and protecting your dreams. Always remember that you are stronger than you think; there will be challenges, but you have the resilience to overcome them. Trust in yourself, believe in your abilities, and never stop pursuing your passions. Your journey will lead you to incredible places, and the experiences you gain along the way will shape you into the person you are meant to become."
What is the biggest challenge you faced being a woman in business?
As a woman in the business world, I have encountered significant challenges, including the constant juggling of work and family responsibilities. Being expected to fulfill traditional caregiving duties while also maintaining my professional commitments puts immense pressure on me to strike a perfect balance between my personal and work life, leading to feelings of overwhelm and burnout. Additionally, I have experienced instances where some women in the industry compete with each other instead of offering support and collaboration. It can be disheartening to encounter a lack of solidarity among female peers in a highly competitive business environment. Supportive networks and mentorship opportunities are crucial for personal and collective success, and the absence of such support can hinder our growth and advancement as women in business.
What advice would you give an aspiring female entrepreneur who are just starting their journey?
To aspiring female entrepreneurs just starting their journey, my advice is simple: believe in yourself and your vision, embrace your passion, be resilient in the face of challenges, seek mentorship, build a strong support network, continuously learn and grow, network strategically, plan wisely, prioritize work-life balance, and celebrate every success along the way. Remember, success may take time, but your dedication, determination, and passion will lead you to a fulfilling and successful entrepreneurial path. Keep pushing forward, and you will achieve greatness.
What do you wish more people knew about YOU?
I'm like an open book. I learn from every experience in life. Good and Bad. Challenges? They're like hidden treasures, waiting to be discovered as opportunities for my personal and professional growth. And you know what? With God by my side, I feel like I can conquer mountains! I firmly believe in the incredible power of prayer, infusing my days with hope and strength. Positivity is my secret weapon, and I'm a firm believer in the boundless potential for greatness that lies within each and every one of us.
In what ways do you believe women can uplift and empower each other?
Women can uplift and empower each other by embodying the spirit of "being our sisters' keeper" and pulling each other up. This involves creating a supportive and collaborative environment where women genuinely care for and lift each other. Mentoring and offering guidance to younger or less-experienced women, celebrating achievements, advocating for gender equality, and promoting diversity of thought are some of the ways to achieve this. Encouraging networking and collaboration, fostering inclusive workplaces, and providing safe spaces for open discussions also play a crucial role. By practicing empathy, compassion, and understanding, women can create a powerful force for positive change and growth, strengthening the collective impact and paving the way for a more inclusive and equal society.
How do you maintain self-care while running a business?
Maintaining self-care while running a business is crucial for my well-being and productivity. I prioritize taking breaks throughout the day to recharge and refocus. Simple activities like enjoying a cup of coffee on a patio or taking a short walk help me clear my mind and relax. Additionally, I set boundaries to ensure I have dedicated time for myself, away from work-related responsibilities.
Is there anything else you would like to share about your journey to experience?
Yes, being totally transparent here, there was a time that I allowed fear and, in certain instances, shame from the past and poor decisions to prevent me from pursuing my purpose; but with lots of prayer, therapy and an amazing circle, I now reflect on my mistakes and extract lessons from each one.
I recognize that every challenge I've faced has contributed to building my character.
I employ every encounter as a means of learning and guidance, relying on prayer to navigate the upcoming stages of my life and business journey.
There's one more point I'd like to emphasize: Never let age or past mistakes hinder you from dreaming on a grand scale. Persistence is key—utilize every victory, setback, and life lesson to shape your vision and construct your legacy.
Dream BIG, Write the vision and Build your empire.
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