Stand in your shine 🌟

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#WednesdayWisdom

"gentle reminder: you’re allowed to outgrow your old self. don’t let anyone shame you for changing and taking on a new shape. growth looks different for everyone." — Alexandra Elle

Morning Musings

At our most recent people of color affinity group meeting at work, we did a fun exercise to close out the fiscal year. We went around the (virtual) room and shared our biggest accomplishments for the FY19. The catch? You had to start your sentence with "I," not "we" or "together." Nope, just me, myself and I to quote Queen Bey.

As someone whose job it is to be behind-the-scenes, this activity was a bit difficult for me. Especially considering as how two of the projects I was most proud of involved our CEO and I didn't want to steal the spotlight from another Black woman (let alone the one who's heading our organization). But with a bit of prodding from my peeps, I happily and proudly shared the following:

• I wrote the gala speech for our incoming CEO -- her first speech in the position AND it resulted in not only a standing ovation, but also contributed to a record-breaking amount of money raised for our Chicago region.

• I also ghostwrote an op/ed for said CEO for a national education outlet.

• I designed and edited the Black affinity group's digital magazine in honor of Black History Month.

And that's just the professional achievements. I was also accepted into Willie's Warriors, a leadership initiative for Black women in the Chicagoland area. I received a scholarship to The Wing, a co-working and community space for women. I did the Big Chop earlier this year. I also pitched two national outlets I'd never freelanced for before and both of my essays were accepted (I seriously can't wait for y'all to read these pieces ... they're some of my best work yet)!

As women, I feel like we're conditioned to diminish our achievements -- to take up less room, if you will. But it's important to stand in your shine. First of all, if you don't, who else will? Secondly, if you're anything like me, chances are you work your ass off. Own that shit, girl! Don't dim your light for anyone, you hear me?

What are you proud of so far this year? Hit "reply" and let me know. I want to celebrate with you!

Love,
L'Oreal

Links I Love

1. Money Is Not Just For Men

2. The Rise of Granny Panties

3. The Three Types of Impostor Syndrome -- And How to Combat Them

My Latest Obsession

If you've been subscribing for a while, you know how much I love The Belles series by Dhonielle Clayton. Think Hunger Games, but make it fashion. This YA fantasy series has it all -- love, mystery, murder. But at the center of it all is young Black heroine Camellia Beauregard. And the sequel, The Everlasting Rose, is just as -- if not more -- thrilling than the first.

Now Hiring

1. Chief Program Officer for OneGoal (come work with me!)

2. Senior Associate for Prosper Strategies

3. Associate Social Editor for Elite Daily

4. Director of Communications for Noble Network of Charter Schools

5. Managing Editor for Texas Monthly

6. Publicity & Communications Associate for Coffee House Press

7. Editorial Associate for L&T Co.

8. Communications Specialist for William & Mary

Well, that's all folks. I hope you enjoyed this edition of LT in the City Weekly! Be sure to follow me on the Interwebs using the buttons below or simply click "reply" to tell me what you think. Thanks a bunches!