This picture may be fuzzy, but my memory of it will not be. I had someone I worked with recently tell me that they didn’t follow me on social media, because seeing what I was doing made them feel like they should be doing that, and made them feel inadequate.
As much as this hurt my heart to hear, I felt that it was an excellent learning experience for both of us. I told them that rather than viewing it as something they’re not getting to do now, to view it as something they can – and will – do in the near future, if they so want it, and work hard for it.
I have always believed that when those feelings of jealousy and inadequacy come up for us (and they do come up for us all), that instead of viewing them as challenges or roadblocks, we should see them as reflections – reflections of who we are, what we can do, and who we can become.
What you are close to…is reflected by you…is who you are.
As I sat there in awe yesterday at the @Unite4Good table at the Variety#PowerOfWomen luncheon, looking at & listening to one of the people that I most want to be like – Oprah Winfrey – I realized that the closer I get, the shinier that reflection is, and the bigger and more realistic my dreams become.
As I told Dress for Success Worldwide – West a few months ago, “Rather than seeing things as a ‘have vs. have not,’ situation, I view everyone else’s success as a direct reflection of my own success. Their dreams coming true are a reflection of my dreams coming true. And, the hard work they’ve put in as the reflection of the work I have yet to do.”
Never has this been more clear than hearing this truly powerful woman share her story. Thanks, Oprah, for inspiring us all, and letting us reflect your light.