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

Hi Zollyann, how do you think about risk?
What I think about risk is pretty simple-Progress always involves some type of risk. Every single decision I’ve made in my adult life and as an Entrepreneur happened because I took a risk. I took a risk on believing in myself and my potential despite others doubting my ability. I took a risk and walked away from my fulltime career as a classroom teacher to pursue my dreams. I took plenty of financials risks as an entrepreneur because I had a vision. Most often I think many people fear taking risks because of their mindset and limiting beliefs. Fear is one of our biggest limiting beliefs and it is something that holds many of us back. The fear of taking risk can sometimes hold you back from your truest potential in life.

And sometimes risk involves making decisions to walk away and start again. After my first year in business as a Boutique owner I was racking in sales and thought that if I can make 6 figures selling online why not open up a storefront. So I sure took a risk and did just that! On my first year business anniversary I opened the door to my first retail location. No degree, experience or training I had prior in merchandising, business, etc. prepared me for the things I dealt with day in and day out as a Brick and Mortar Retail Boutique Owner. After a year of running my Retail Store Front I had to take accountability for my decision and realize that I made a huge mistake and outsource too quickly! Closing down the storefront was a huge risk. But I realized that sometimes you have to task a risk to be able to pivot or grow. Outsourcing and launching a retail location and hiring multiple people without my brand doing huge numbers consistently took a lot out of my profit margin and slowed things down a tad bit.

Trials and error I guess but I recognized the lessons early on. Which was the main reason for me rebranding and making the tough decision to close the doors and run the boutique solely online. Knowing my numbers now and working consistently on having certain systems in place has been key in helping my business thrive! I can finally enjoy the benefits of being an entrepreneur and it feels amazing. But like I said lesson learnt and risk taken! Of course, not all risk are good risks so it’s important to evaluate the risk that can truly improve your life and not just make risks because it feels good in the moment. Learning how to shift your mindset to a positive one and balancing your emotions with logic will help you focus your energy on increasing your chances of success.

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.
I’d like to think that I have my own vibe and lane in life, I’m not interested in being like the rest of the world and I think that’s what sets be apart from others. I am definitely most proud of the progress I have made so far in life. I am grateful for that progress and I am constantly reminding myself that even on the days that you feel like you are not making a difference- YOU ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE.

I definitely got to where I am professionally today by acknowledging and overcoming my limited beliefs and betting on myself without regret. Had I not taken such risks in life I have no idea where I would be and that is a scary phase in life to be in. I strive on having a growth mindset. I believe that in order for you to be successful in life you have to be willing to grow and embrace change. Each phrase of your life is never your final destination but rather a new way of looking at things and that’s how I run my life and my business.

This past year I’ve spent my time being strategic with my businesses and my purpose. I’ve been able to successfully rebrand my online boutique BAE & CO, into a luxury, quality Fashion brand as well as rebranding my in-home family daycare into an Online Learning Academy to be able to reach learners all across the globe. As for writing, that will forever be my first love, the next book is in the works and I can’t wait until my readers and supporters get their hands on a copy when it launches in the near future.

One of my biggest passions in life is serving children in my community and doing my part to help close the educational gap. I knew I never wanted to go back into the classroom as a teacher especially while running my own businesses but I was finally able to find and choose a position and go into a role on my own terms in a school community that aligns with my purpose in life and it feels amazing! There’s also a TEDX talks in the works, so I’m super excited for that opportunity as well!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am such a foodie! Breakfast at Barney’s is definitely a go to spot if you’re in the area. The food, the vibe, the aesthetics is a must.

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?
There’s quite a few people who have had hands in my success. I was always able able to overcome adversity because I didn’t do it alone. Somewhere along the way, I was always fortunate enough to find people who come into my life and circle and was able to help bring out the best in me and were invested in my success. And I am so very grateful to those individuals.

Website: https://linktr.ee/bossbabemove

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zollyann-howell-8b86a522a/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/zoll_inreallife

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zollyannhowell/?show_switched_toast=0&show_invite_to_follow=0&show_switched_tooltip=0&show_podcast_settings=0&show_community_transition=0&show_community_review_changes=0&show_follower_visibility_disclosure=0

Image Credits
RTW Photography Studios

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