Three years ago, I decided to become self-employed.  It was what you would call “walking on water” – having faith in Jesus.  Having worked in senior-level positions for billion-dollar companies and world-renowned public relations agencies for 20+ years, I was well equipped to go out and counsel companies on how to set the stage for greatness.  At the same time, sadly, I was saying goodbye to my first love – my mother.  While she was transitioning into Heaven, she asked me if I had quit my job.  Why would she be concerned about something I thought was minuscule at a time when she was dying.  I didn’t want her to worry but I told her the truth — yes.  Her response was sweet and simple – “You are going to be alright!”  To this day, I think of her and those words when I get discouraged or start beginning to wonder if I will starve or thrive.  Well, I can happily say that I am thriving – beyond my wildest dreams and I have never been happier. 

Today is the launch and makeover of my website, Stage 1 Public Relations – created beautifully by Melanie Latrelle Grandoit, who is absolutely brilliant and beautiful.  With her help, I finally began the process of branding and making my website come alive.  Go check it out: www.Stage1pr.com. 

The process was very important because it caused me to think and ask myself an important question. How can I encourage others to tell their story when I haven’t pulled my story together? That is something you need to do in your lives. 

How do you start:

1. Start keeping a journal. I started using a planner called Passion Planner, which allows me to not only set my schedule but chart my course and set my goals.  The journal prompts me to evaluate my wins and losses each month.  It allows me to see my footprints and evaluate my game plan.  The creator of this planner has an interesting story.  If you get a chance, visit the website and hear her story of how she built a successful business.
2. Celebrate your wins but also the moments that cause you disappointment.  The missteps allow you to pause and regroup.  I have found that nothing is by accident and every misstep is a set up.
3. Find someone who is doing what you want to do and ask them for advice.  You don’t have to be a copycat.  I try to find inspiration because in each of us, there is something great ready to be shared with others.  Our Creator doesn’t search for what he loves, he simply creates what he loves.  And that is us!
4. Accept the fact that you will make mistakes.  Shake it off and keep going.
5. And lastly, remember and keep telling yourself – “You are going to be alright.”  Thanks mom!   

Shirley Johnson, Stage 1 PR