We had the good fortune of connecting with Lamarra Rice and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Lamarra, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Work life Balance: My balance has completely changed from when I first opened my business, and is frequently shifting. When I first started my business, I was a single mother with 1 child — now, 10 years later. I have two children. So just with that alone, it’s pretty hectic. My kids are 10 years apart, so I’m balancing two completely different routines/ schedules. I have to really plan accordingly for any personal alone time that I need, alongside of working on client accounts, the back end of the business — ensuring the proper growth strategies are in place, overseeing the operational budget/ team, and continuous research to make sure we are growing with the industry and not getting left behind.
So I can say organizational skills are the most important when it comes to securing a proper balance. And to be honest, I don’t even know if you’ll ever achieve the “proper balance” there’s always going to be someone, or something that unfortunately may get the shorter end of the stick at times…. but being open to making adjustments when necessary helps a bit. And also, be easy on yourself. It’s not easy, but I respect anyone who is at least making the effort to get it done.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My firm is known as GPPR USA, and we just recently released our Global Partnerships App.
Our services are very diverse – but I’d say the difference between our firms and most, are our “Phase” Options. We can service any client, from any level. We have the network for fortune500 companies, and we have to tools for start ups.
I believe most clients appreciate that they can start and finish with us.
Alongside of the company, we now have our app which is available on all platforms. Our app connects businesses globally — providing a one stop shop for all your needs, while making it cost effective to find the vetted professionals your business needs. You can literally talk with anyone in the world from our app, and we’ve taken the time to “vet” the audience. Allowing for business to be effective and efficient.
I’ve learned to breathe, take your time, pray pray pray, and honestly, trust the process. If it wasn’t for my wrongs, I wouldn’t be right. It takes time, and, eventually you’ll end up where you belong. But work hard, and appreciate being the “student” when possible. Because there really is a lot of free game out there. You just have to be willing to listen.
I’ve overcome some of my worst challenges by drowning out the noise and eliminating all distractions. I deal with loneliness OFTEN but it’s my sacrifice for the bigger picture. Sure there’s time I want to be out having fun, but when I look at my goals, my children and the bigger picture — it’s an easy reminder to “sit things out” and get some extra work done. And I’m a prayer warrior. I truly believe prayer has saved me in so many ways. Sometimes you don’t know who to talk to —- and with prayer there’s no judgement. It’s therapeutic, spiritually rewarding and an amazing way to build with the king of all kings — that’s enough for me.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
My fun is cooking, dinner & drinks at my house. If we do decide to go out — Get a driver, because I’m totally against drinking and driving — bring a bottle of wine with us. Put the windows down and kinda just vibe out. I truly appreciate my solitude, and just a different vibe. Clubs are a thing of the past. I really just like to do my own thing. I’m also a really good cook — however, my go to spot is “Regina’s Steakhouse” it’s local, cute, great drinks and DJ.
As busy as NYC seems, there’s really not much to do. Restaurants/Bars, museums, the occasional hikes —
And we’d probably book a ticket, and fly to Puerto Rico haha. I’m a lot older and can’t hang as much as I used to. But I’m always down for a quick trip, poolside and a swim up bar.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d love to shout out my team. My assistant is an angel, Tabre Roots. My clients are apart of my testimony without my clients, I literally wouldn’t be in the position I’m in today. And my friends, because outside of my professional life, my friends have been huge anchors in helping me in my personal life/ routine —
My business right hand, Mike Nekta — we are an amazing team. Thank you Mike.
And most importantly, my children, and my parents. They’re my reason for everything. For self growth, motivation, discipline and just everything. I love you Ava and Caleb..
Website: www.gpprusa.com
Instagram: Missrice
Other: Lamarra@gpprusa.com