As the world adapts to the new social and economic reality brought about by the coronavirus pandemic, we reached out to our BGV Birmingham Venture Board to see how they were handling this unprecedented crisis. Birmingham Change Agents Amber Curry, Jaclynn Maxwell Hudson, Carmen Mays, and Alycia Levels-Moore are keeping a positive mindset, and they shared powerful advice on navigating change.
“I pace myself by taking everything one step at a time while thinking of ways around the hurdles that I can not change.” -Amber Curry
Amber Curry, our BGV Birmingham Venture Board Lead, is a computer engineer and business consultant passionate about helping women of color entrepreneurs obtain resources so that their ideas have a chance to succeed. “When it comes to adapting to change, I like to do things similar to Nike and ‘Just Do it!’ I pace myself by taking everything one step at a time while thinking of ways around the hurdles that I can not change,” Amber shared.
“Additionally, passing the baton to take a breather is a real thing for me. So I find it most helpful to lean on my support system for wisdom, encouragement, and much needed mental breaks when the road gets rough.” In addition, a healthy dose of humor goes a long way: “At the end of the day, life is a marathon, not a spr....just kidding, stopping here with the running similes!”
“Change is inevitable. How we respond to those changes is up to us.” - Jaclynn Hudson
Jaclynn Hudson, BGV Birmingham Administrator, is an administrative specialist and entrepreneur. “Change is inevitable and each day we may be faced with any number of changes - small or big. How we respond to those changes is up to us but it is informed by our knowledge and our plan,” Jaclynn told us. “If you're able to accept change and process quickly then chances are you're able to do the small, decent things for those around you.”
She shared three tips with us:
1. Be thoughtful. Evaluate the options and scenarios.
2. Making a plan and writing it down.
3. Find joy in giving grace to others because you never know when you might need some.”
“The transition to virtual is an opportunity for digital natives to thrive.” - Carmen Mays
Carmen Mays, BGV Birmingham Events Manager and Founder & CEO of Elevators, is a business strategist and speaker helping organizations to be good partners in inequitable entrepreneurial ecosystem building.
“While this is a physically and emotionally trying time, the transition to virtual is an opportunity for digital natives to thrive. I'm really excited about the opportunities that will manifest during this time,” she shared. “I find solace in productivity and have taken advantage of the many resources now available for free to aid entrepreneurs. There are so many things beyond our control, focusing on what I can control keeps me grounded and better equipped to adapt in this new space.”
“Although uncertain, this is the most ideal time to learn how to pivot, adapt, and to truly harness your creative genius.” - Alycia Levels-Moore
Alycia Levels-Moore, BGV Birmingham Fundraising & Partnerships Manager and Founder of ASL Creative Strategies, is a small business creative strategist passionate about connecting creators, innovators and entrepreneurs to available resources. “The definition of adapt is: Make something suitable for a new use or adjust to new conditions. That is exactly the time we are in. Although uncertain, this is the most ideal time to learn how to pivot, adapt, and to truly harness your creative genius,” she told us.
“What business idea have you been pondering on or considering? What is the one thing you said you wanted to do in terms of your business, if only you had the time? Well, ladies, the time is here.” Alycia is optimistic about what lies ahead and encourages people to see this time as an opportunity: “What we are currently seeing is a shift. A shift not just toward those who can do the work, but the ones who can create, who can add value and insight. Don't miss the wave! Grab your stuff and let's go!”
Stayed tuned for upcoming events with our BGV Birmingham Chapter and more.
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