I love a juicy story, don’t you?
Today I want to share a recent experience that led to something I would’ve never imagined.
But first, let’s go back in time.
The year was 2021 and I was exploring the world of business networking groups and entrepreneurship, and I was really enjoying this new change in the atmosphere.
Within a short time, I joined a few groups and began forming relationships with amazing people, both men and women (but mostly women).
To my surprise, a few years in, I was approached by one of the group’s leaders who asked if I’d be interested in taking over for this established chapter.
Me?
New-ish entrepreneur without a legit business of her own-ME?
I didn’t immediately envision myself as the most ideal fit, but I was intrigued, and after a little consideration, I said I’d do it.
I knew this role could be a great way to learn new skills, serve amazing women, expand my network, and possibly lead to new opportunities. Why not!?
I had NO idea what was in store (and believe me, it was A LOT), but I dove in head first and gave it my all.
Despite the occasional self-doubt and sacrifice of time, money, and energy to lead this group, I managed to settle into my new role and began to establish myself as a leader.
Each month, after our meeting, I was always touched to get a text message or email by both members and guests offering words of gratitude and praise. It made me feel validated and appreciated, which was great fuel to keep going (because every month I asked myself whether this was something I wanted to continue).
Validation is always a beautiful thing.
And we all need it every now and again- it’s our nature.
Fast forward one year into my new role and I was taken by shock when I received a text message by the CEO and Founder stating her desire to find a replacement for our group.
Excuse me, what?
While there is a whole lot to say about the way this went down, it’s not the point of this post so I won’t go too much into it other than to say it was de ja vu to another experience I had during my last year of teaching (2021) when I was notified I wasn’t being asked back for the following school year.
Despite excellent observations, a great rapport with my team and students, and over a dozen years of teaching experience, not to mention a need for a teacher to fill this role for the following year!
You see, what had happened was…
Two weeks before the last day of school, I was notified that my contract wasn’t being renewed. I immediately knew this was retaliation by the new principal, whom I had filed a formal complaint against for his unethical and unprofessional behavior toward me earlier that year.
People really don’t understand that I am not the ONE!! 😉
I digress…
This was the year I spent crying nearly every morning before work because I wanted to quit my teaching career but I couldn’t make the move without hearing loud and clear from God that that was the right thing to do. In reality, He was SCREAMING at me in a million different ways, but my faith was not strong enough to believe it and I could not, for the life of me, take the leap.
So, while I was in shock and disbelief at the wrongness of it all, my heart was simultaneously screaming with JOY because I realized I was FREE!!! I no longer needed to make a decision to end my career- it was being made for me!!
Well, when I received this text message- it was sort of the same feeling all over again.
It made no sense. The manner in which it was handled was also in direct contradiction with the organization’s core values.
And yet, I was elated and relieved to be set free.
At any point, I could’ve made my exit without the sense of burden I had with my teaching career, but I felt a real obligation to show up each month for the ladies I served and to do my best to cultivate a strong chapter.
Although I wish it would have ended on a more positive note, I learned a great deal about leadership and I’m grateful for the opportunity. #winning
Within a couple of weeks, I received a fresh download.
I clearly heard these words: Start your own community.
Immediately, I wondered if this was a good idea or a God idea and I began to pray and let it simmer.
I knew this wasn’t coming from a place of vindication, but I really needed to align with my ‘why’ before I could commit to anything.
The idea persisted and I began to identify my mission and purpose for this new community.
I brainstormed name ideas, format options, meeting locations, and a few other details and within a month, I introduced my new women’s connection community: The Umbrella SD.
Super exciting.
As the first gathering approached, I had crazy brain thoughts like “what are you doing?!” “Why did you commit to this!?” “What if nobody is interested!?”
I reminded myself that I was simply responding to a call and that everything was going to be perfect and exactly as it should be.
And it was.
My first meet-up was so joyful. Fifteen wonderful women brought realness, laughter, and a dozen other qualities to the group.
Our second meeting was just as full of joy, inspiration, and purpose.
Meeting #3 is fast approaching and I’m feeling like this was a great move after all. A good AND a God idea at the same time.
I love when that happens.
As for my why, I believe wholeheartedly we were created for community. Not just to achieve business success, but life success.
More than ever before, there is a desperate need for human-human connection.
Something my mom never had was a place where she could be seen and heard. I believe her entire life would have been different if she had a safe and supportive circle of friends who could listen to her without judgment, challenge her to go after her dreams, laugh with her, dance with her, and support her when she needed it most.
I am creating for women what I wish someone had created for my mom.
A place to connect, support, and encourage one another in all areas of life.
As Proverbs 27:17 says “Iron sharpens iron.”
I want some daggers in my circle! LOL That’s a little taste of my Peter side.
So, what about you? Can you think of a painful time or experience that ultimately led to a better and more fulfilling purpose in your life?
Maybe it was a relocation, job situation, relationship challenge…
Share your stories in the comments below!
The truth is God uses everything for our good. Even when we can’t discern what He’s doing in the moment or situation, we can take comfort knowing it all leads to good.
Of that we can be sure.
Thanks for being here.
Nothing but love,
Barbara
Pursu Agency