Listen to this week’s message:
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As award-winning writer/director/producer Shonda Rhimes said, “You can waste your lives drawing lines. Or you can live your life crossing them.”
How committed are you to expressing your gifts? Armed with a BA and MFA, Shonda Rhimes was committed to being a successful writer in Hollywood despite the low odds for a Black woman. She gained experience and mentors taking research and writing assignments. Through her unwavering determination and innate creativity, she became the first African-American woman to create and executive produce a Top 10 network series—Grey’s Anatomy. She then leveraged that into popular shows including Private Practice, Scandal and How to Get Away With Murder, making a reported $10 million a year. After a 15-year run at ABC Studios, she signed a multi-year production deal with Netflix in 2017. Instead of lamenting about limitations and obstacles, cross the lines. Believe in your talents and aim high. Don’t buy into statistics or stereotypes. Seek mentors and be willing to work hard. If you want to be a writer, pick up a pen. If you want to run a marathon, lace up your sneakers. If you want to start a business, hone your plan. Don’t just talk about your dreams, take steps every day to move you closer to your vision. Through focus and self-discipline, you will put yourself in the position to exceed your own expectations and possibly even break new ground.
Until next time, remember-it’s your divine life, live it to the fullest. The power is in your hands!
With Purpose & Power,
Terri
Contributed by Teresa Kay-Aba Kennedy.
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