Successful Black Women

Have you even noticed how powerful people know that there is no magic wand for discovering who they are? You look at people and wonder, damn, how did they achieve so much and what did they do to get there? Yes, I know the obvious, that it takes hard work, dedication and commitment to embrace the good, the bad and the ugly. Climbing that ladder is a bitch at times and you certainly have to know who you are to get there.

It seems like, the good in you draws compliments and admiration from others. Then there is the bad that has those parts of lyfe that needs some working on. (We all have those parts and its good to know what are your weak areas as well as your strengths). Well of course, we got the ugly. Yep, the ugly; that could just be the part of lyfe that represents some bad experiences that left us with some deep emotional wounds and scars. But you know what I'm learning? I see that even the ugly serves a purpose. If you really think about it, its there to build our power muscles that gives us the drive and determination to succeed.

Being powerful means, you know how to bring all of you to the table. Boldly authenticating and applying our very best for the task at hand, and not just for our own agenda but for the good of all.
When we are truly powerful, we understand that whether we wield influences the ultimate goal is to lift others up as we climb the ladder. That's what power means to me, having the skill and feeling strongly endowered with a strong sense of knowledge, wisdom, skills, gifts and talents and unfolding it all at the table.

Here are 7 Habits that help successful professional black women:
1. They know how to manage up. Doing what you can to make your boss's job easier and build your trust to solidfy your relationship.
2. They Build a network. Black women build relationships with those who tend to look like them, but they also make connections beyond their own gender, race, occupation etc. They have a wide diverse network to access opportunities.
3. They strategic about their brand. Your brand is what others say about you when you are not in the room. They know that their success is based upon how well then manage their reputation.
4. They position themselves globally.
5. They continuously develop themselves. Constantly learning and taking advantage of formal and informal education that enhances your skills.
6. They take risk to get noticed. No matter how hard you work, it won't help if no one notices.
7. They never ever play the DIVA. Mediocre performance won't cut it, even if you are best buddies with powerful people. Use your influence wisely, but be pleasant and helpful to everyone from the BOTTOM UP.

article from: Essence Mag

These tips will certainly help as I continue to move up the corporate level of success.