We had the good fortune of connecting with Shara Francis and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Shara, 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?
Giving up is definitely easier than staying focused on your goals for sure. When making a decision on if I should continue down a certain path, I take into consider a few factors; my current goals, circumstances, resources, and if my personal values are being compromised in any way.
I ask myself if what I am attempting to achieve is meaningful and aligned with my values, is it achievable given my current circumstances?
I’ll evaluate the progress I’ve made towards my goals. I’ll assess, if I’ve made significant progress, or if I am feeling stuck in any way. Sometimes, a lack of progress may indicate the need for a different approach rather than giving up entirely.
I’ll seek feedback, sometimes, an outside viewpoint can provide valuable insights that I may have overlooked.
I always listen to my intuition and follow my gut, if it says to put something down for the moment, or let go, I usually will.
I always consider the potential risks and rewards associated with both continuing and giving up. Sometimes, taking calculated risks can lead to significant rewards, but it’s essential to weigh the potential consequences.
Im always kind to myself throughout this process, especially if its uncharted territory. I understand that it’s okay to change course or adjust my goals based on new information or evolving circumstances.
After careful consideration, I make a decision based on the information available to me. And I always remind myself to be flexible on the path taken to get to the goal, sometimes it might turn out differently from what I expected/ imagined it to be.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’d like to consider myself a global sounds DJ- I spin African diaspora music from all around the world. Right now my favorite sound is Amapiano (Amapiano is a South African style of electronic dance music, its a subgenre of house and Kwaito.) Afrotech and Afrohouse. I love music that you can’t help but to move your body to.
I started DJing about 2 and a half years ago; very humble beginnings, starting off as a kitchen DJ streaming my sets online with my 5 friends who support everything that I do watching. Over the last 2 years, I have had so much growth as an artist and as a person. Two tour runs with Canadian Junos award winning artist Haviah Mighty-playing in some of the most historic venues in the US, participating in a RedBull DJ competition, co-creating an all female DJ collective, and being apart of the Girls Love Ama crew, one of the biggest Amapiano crew/dance parties in Atlanta.
Most recently, I’ve moved into the music event curation space; organizing events throughout Atlanta, via my community group Piano is for lovers. Founded on the belief that music has the power to transcend boundaries and bring people together, our group serves as a hub for music enthusiasts, artists, and supporters alike. Whether you’re a seasoned musician, a budding artist, or simply someone who appreciates the transformative power of music, you’ll find a welcoming home within our community. I am super proud and excited to be able to be a pioneer, pushing culture, & exposing African diaspora music to all demographics throughout Atlanta.
Loads of networking, collaborations with others, supporting my peers and being willing to learn new things have gotten me where I am professionally. Learning how to balance my personal life with my business, and all of the other 1 million things I have going on has been quite the challenge. At time its a bit overwhelming, but I remind myself that I am 100% capable of handling everything that comes my way. My biggest lesson in life right now is knowing that I am capable.
I want the world to know that music is a universal language that we all speak (and can feel). Through music you can find your people and build your tribe.
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?
For a week long trip in Atlanta, Id recommend the following:
Arts Atlanta at the underground on a First Friday for music art and food
Bell and Lilly Restaurant for Caribbean cuisine
Yebo Haus Restaurant for South African cuisine
Rocksteady for music and Caribbean cuisine
Politan Row at Colony Square for a great food hall
Botanical Gardens for Nature
Apartment 4B for food and Vibes
Bar Taco for amazing tacos
LOA for rooftop vibes
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to dedicate my shout out to my community and my friends who have uplifted me, encouraged me, given me opportunities, taught me new things, have kept it real with me and been nothing but supportive of my journey. Huge shout out to my friend Bina who was the first person to support my dream of becoming a DJ. To DJ Toni K, Shawn (Destrukshawn), Xavier Blk, and DJ Tag who all saw my potential and helped me find my courage to take myself to the next level, I appreciate ya’ll. To Rachel aka Dolly for always speaking life into my dreams, and to Aaron aka Son of Rhythm for helping me actualize them.
Website: www.pianoisforlovers.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/msleeding_/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRD0nTDZ5V1BQgnKurUmbTA
Image Credits
SAR Images Fleenormality.ca YSA