05/09/2024
I’m often asked what I’d tell my younger self, and to be honest it’s my least favorite question! I wouldn’t be where I am today without the obstacles and setbacks I fought through along the way, and for that reason I don’t hold onto regrets. But I recently stumbled upon a picture of myself in an outfit almost identical to a new suit I just bought! It made me stop and think about the long road young Barbara had ahead of her, but also how delicious it was.
So at 75 years and 3 facelifts young today, here are a few things I’d tell my 25 year old self. I hope you find them helpful too.
-Don’t you dare underestimate the power of your own instinct. Trust your gut, it’s a summation of everything you’ve learned and it won’t often lead you astray.
-The Old Boy Network that won’t let you in? Don’t worry about them. You can move in silence while they count you out, but they’ll soon take notice when you become their biggest rival.
-When you have an idea, move on it immediately. Don’t worry about whether it’s a winner or a loser, just throw a lot at the wall and see what sticks. And let me tell you something - those nasty failures? Your best successes will follow soon after. You’ve just gotta stay in the game long enough to see things turn around.
-Use your gift for choosing good people to build a great team ready to join hands and lift each other up. With them beside you, you’ll build a business even bigger and more powerful than you dream.
-Don’t forget to make time for fun. Plan a boondoggle for your company, play out that wacky theme party, and get your vacations on the calendar. It’ll multiply your creativity, build a loyal team, and create an unparalleled sense of camaraderie that’ll make you the most desirable shop in town.
PS: Green might be our color!
