A View from the Bottom
August 05, 2014
People often ask me what I did to get where I am or how I did it. The first thing I say is "I'm still getting there." But, the how is much simpler ... The bottom has never fazed me. No, I don't love the bottom. I do, however, respect it as a level. I posted a series of tips on Instagram today about the type of mindset it takes to get where you're trying to go if, in fact, you're trying to go somewhere great. It's nothing out of the ordinary to see those types of posts in my timeline, but I am careful to offer specifics as often as possible about how I've made my way up the ladder — if you will. I've written about it here many times, but I don't think it'll ever be too much if one new reader sees something I post and is able to use it for their journey.
Today, my mind is on stressing the importance of levels and intentionally gaining as you go. If you think you're too good for some part of the process, you're setting yourself back before you even begin.
As I wrote on IG this afternoon, I started working at the YMCA in 2003 after earning my master's degree in American Culture Studies; I was working as a front desk clerk just trying to make ends meet. But whenever the executive director came by, I had a few thoughts for him about the place, programs, etc. I should also add that I worked any day and shift they asked me except Sundays. Not only could I talk good, I was also willing to roll up my sleeves. A few months later he gave me the reference I needed for the Executive Director post of Big Brothers Big Sisters. Two years later, when I started at Atlanta Tribune, I was associate editor. I wrote four to five features every month along with my everyday duties of helping run editorial. I was overwhelmed but I did it. I became Editor in Chief seven months after I was hired. You can keep name dropping and shoulder rubbing your way to a seat at the cool kids table, but I assure you there's someone else working their way into that position that you have your eyes on.
People at the top often talk about the bottom. And they've usually been there more than once. Pay attention; Levels. 
7 comments
I'm a new reader! I'm so glad you posted this. I just started a new blog (though I've been blogging for years) and I have to keep reminding myself that everyone started from 0 followers/subscribers etc. This post reinforces that for me - thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeleteThank you for reading, Dawn!
DeleteLove your way with words, Katrice. So happy for your success. You're very deserving of it.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much Monica! And thank you for keeping up with me.
DeleteLevels. There is NOTHING wrong with the bottom...I often feel that people will look down on me because I'm really just starting out on a "public" level...what I have to remind myself is that God is the only one that can really look down on me and He's got my back! I LOVE your blog!!! :-)
ReplyDeleteYes! What people think can be such a hurdle for us and it's natural. We have to constantly recalibrate and refocus. If I had a nickel for every time I caught myself considering what "they" think ... lol Thank you for reading!
DeleteThank you for the reminder that work ethic speaks volumes!!
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