Meet Tamara Allen | Certified Life Coach, Public Speaker, Brand Strategist, and Author

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tamara Allen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tamara, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Over time, my perspective on work/life balance has evolved significantly. I’ve come to recognize the importance of prioritizing self-care and well-being. After all, if we’re not taking care of ourselves, we can’t effectively contribute to others or our work. I’ve learned to value my free time and prioritize activities that bring me joy and fulfillment. It’s crucial to recognize that life will go on even when we’re no longer here, so it’s essential to find a healthy balance between work and personal life. Nowadays, I make myself available for emergencies only, ensuring that I have the time and energy to invest in both my professional endeavors and my personal well-being.

Insightful takeaway: Achieving a healthy work/life balance isn’t just about dividing time between work and personal life; it’s about recognizing the importance of self-care and prioritizing activities that nourish our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. By taking care of ourselves, we become better equipped to handle the challenges of work and life and lead more fulfilling lives overall.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My career journey began as an administrative assistant for the Director of Multicultural Student Programming at the University of Kentucky, where I was inspired by the diverse community around me to pursue a career in higher education. Over the next 15 years, I transitioned into roles such as a TRiO Student Support Services Counselor, eventually became a Director of Career Services at a local Atlanta college, and now, Workforce Development Director for a local nonprofit organization. Throughout this journey, I focused on empowering first-generation, lower socioeconomic individuals, driven by a mission to make a meaningful impact.

However, this journey was far from easy. As a non-traditional college student, I faced challenges breaking into leadership roles and advocating for the demographic I was passionate about helping. Overcoming obstacles such as being a first-generation college student, navigating religious trauma, and encountering discrimination as a masculine-of-center professional woman was no small feat. Yet, with the support of mentors who encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and provided growth opportunities, I persevered.

From these experiences, I’ve learned invaluable lessons. I’ve learned the importance of resilience and perseverance, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. I’ve embraced my authenticity and used it as a source of strength, rather than seeing it as a barrier. And most importantly, I’ve discovered that dreams can be achieved, even in the face of adversity.

What I want the world to know about my brand and story is that it’s a testament to the power of resilience and determination. My journey is proof that you don’t have to give up on your dreams, no matter how daunting the obstacles may seem. Through my brand, I aim to inspire others to persevere in the face of adversity and to believe in their ability to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. Together, we can create a world where every individual has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting Atlanta for a week, I’d want to show them the best of what the city has to offer. We’d start our day with brunch at Mary Mac’s Tea Room, indulging in classic southern comfort food like fried chicken and peach cobbler. Afterward, we’d explore the lush greenery of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, taking in the beautiful blooms and serene atmosphere.

For lunch, we’d head to Colony Square, where we could enjoy a variety of dining options in a vibrant outdoor setting. In the afternoon, we’d visit Piedmont Park for a leisurely stroll, maybe even renting a paddleboat to explore the lake.

As the sun sets, we’d make our way to Skyline Drive-In for a nostalgic movie night under the stars, complete with popcorn and cozy blankets. Afterward, we’d venture to Cirque Daiquiri Lounge for cocktails and live entertainment, immersing ourselves in the lively atmosphere and unique circus-themed decor.

Throughout the week, we’d make sure to explore Atlanta’s nightlife scene, with a visit to My Sister’s Room for a night of dancing and camaraderie in the heart of Midtown.

In between our adventures, we’d also take time to explore Atlanta’s cultural offerings, such as the High Museum of Art and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

Overall, Atlanta offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and entertainment, making it an ideal destination for a week-long adventure with friends.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my dad, whose unwavering commitment to community service has been a source of inspiration throughout my life. His compassionate care for the castaways and the forgotten has taught me the profound lesson that people are greater than their circumstances. His selfless dedication to helping others has shaped my values and fueled my passion for making a positive impact in the world. I’m incredibly grateful for his enduring example of kindness, empathy, and service. Additionally, I’d like to extend my gratitude to authors like Minda Harts, whose book ‘The Memo: What Women of Color Need to Know to Secure a Seat at the Table’ has provided invaluable insights into leadership, entrepreneurship, and personal development, further enriching my journey. Thank you, Dad, for your unwavering love, support, and belief in the power of community.

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