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

Hi Briana, do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
This is such a great question. I think the fact that this question comes up is proof that we should keep going. Giving up is often talked about as a sign of weakness but in reality, I think it comes about as a reaction to fear. The fear of failure, the fear of the unknown. I try to train my thinking so that I redefine what it means to be fearful which helps control my reaction to it. Things that we fear are often areas that are set up for us to excel, thrive and find our purpose. So, I say, keep going! We never know what on the other side of that fear.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My work is a reflection of my journey, my life, my lessons and my failures. When a new shirt design is created it’s a reflection of something I am either in or have gone through. When someone supports me, it indicates they are resonating with my message and can relate to the message and the lessons I have learned. I think that is one thing that sets me a part is not just creating to create but creating to create unity and a community. I am most proud about that, bringing people together and building a community of people who love, support and accept.

I’ll be honest in saying that my road to entrepreneurship wasn’t very hard in the startup sense. I had two jobs at the time so had the financial means to invest in myself and my ideas. Now on the flip side, the learning curves and the process of understanding the business as a whole has been and continues to be very difficult. I am thankful for my village who provide resources and encouragement so I can continue learning and going in the right direction. Learning how to be a successful and purposeful entrepreneur never ends so it’s important to start the journey on the right foot with the right people around you.

I want the world to know that it’s OK TO TRY! It’s OK TO FAIL! We can’t explore our purpose without trying and without failing. Don’t let fear keep you from your purpose. Jump in and trust your journey. I want the world to know that my brand is a reflection of me, who I am, who I was, and who I am becoming. I want the world to know that my brand will change as I change, and I hope you will be there along with me for the ride. My story can be seen in my brand, and I look forward to showing you the greatness that’s to come.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
What a great question! I’ll be honest that I am great at reading the energy of people. So, with that said, my best friend would definitely be ready to eat well, party a little bit (not too much) and have a nice scenic view to take some bomb photos for the gram.

To eat there are SOOO many places in ATL but here are a few of my favorites:
T’s brunch Bar
The Woodall
5 Church ATL
The Garden Room
The select

Places to party (just a little)
Rose Bar
Tongue and Groove

For places to take some bomb pics for the gram
Botanical gardens
Selfie museum

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Oh wow, there are so many. From family, friends, fellow businesswomen, entrepreneurs, etc. I have such an extensive list that I think it would be best to give credit to these different groups and how they have mentored, supported, loved and encouraged me.

My family is so amazing. There were my FIRST customers and my very first support group when I stepped into the business world. They keep it real about my products and encouraged me to step out into the business world. They also showed unconditional support which means no matter the post, no matter the sale or now sale, they were present in showing me they loved me and were proud of me for creating another extension of myself.

My friends, which I consider my CHOSEN family. Whew they show out! From offering advice, helping me network, sharing resources, referring me to other clients…the list goes on. It has been my friends that have also shown up and shown out when it comes to me. They constantly remind me that I am deserving and worthy of success.

Last but not least, my fellow businesswomen/entrepreneurs. This is where a lot of my motivation comes from. Watching people that look like me succeed and thrive in the business world. It’s a constant reminder that I CAN DO IT TOO! I too can win, be successful and continue to grow. So, to that group please know I celebrate and share ALL of your wins. Because when y’all win, I win, and we win.

Website: bristepsforward.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bristepsforward/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Bristepsforward/

Image Credits
Stock photos provided my Placeit

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