Qualified
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I took this picture at the entrance of The Great Wall of China and couldn’t help thinking “I can’t believe I’m really here”.
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A small town, country chick, kickin it in Beijing. It made me think of everything else I’ve accomplished, so far like...sheesh...that girl...yea her...she did that. Even though the cards she was dealt says she shouldn’t have.
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I am the product of a small, country town. (So I’m supposed to think small)
I am an HBCU grad.
(So my degree is actually inferior)
I am a Young. Black. Businesswoman.
(So I should just be happy I’m in the room)
I am a regular degular chick. Far from an IG model or “cool kid”.
(So who do I think I am starting an APPAREL company)
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Imagine if you would have believed and internalized every comment from someone attempting to demoralize you. Attempting to talk you out of realizing your vision. Attempting to break you down and tell you all of the reasons why you’re not good enough. Think about the things you would have missed out on. The career you wouldn’t have sought after. The house you wouldn’t have purchased. The girl you wouldn’t have married.
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The moment you let OTHER people define who you are and what you are qualified for, you have lost the war. Their condescension is a ploy to convince you that your place is beneath them. Because God forbid you gain some power. And even worse if it’s over them. God forbid you succeed! Then...that makes them feel inferior. Sounds more like their insecurity and NONE of your problem.
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It is my hope for you that you remain UNBOTHERED by the negativity and continue down your path of excellence. Stay true to what you bring to the table and let NO ONE make you second guess your achievements. Don’t take the obstacle as a failure, but as a challenge and opportunity to go BIG. You BELONG at the table. You might even be too good for it. So keep shining your light...even if it blinds a hater or ten. - Love, Jaye