What I learned from losing a pitch contest.
Over the weekend, I pitched my children’s financial literacy book during the InspireU Fest featuring fireside talks by Beatrice Dixon, owner of the Honey Pot, Kalilah Wright, owner of Mess in a Bottle and my friends, Tweety and Patrice of HustleBlendz. Much love to Sabeina Harris for this impactful event!
Here’s what I learned!
Gratitude - thank you so much for those who voted for me, I would’ve never made the top 3 hadn't been for you. You believed in me and still believe in me.
Practice - makes for more practice, I practiced in the shower, walking, everywhere! Thanks to those who listened to my pitch and critiqued me.
New Opportunities - I was asked to be on another podcast and I pitched to a tech founder (acquired founder) who helps new founders. (via Twitter)
Comfort Zone shattered - I have a Master’s in Entrepreneurship, so I understand the theory of entrepreneurship. I started my first business at 8 and a few more in between until college (#hustle), but I hadn’t pitched since 2014!!! Talk about nerve-wracking.
It was a humbling experience, but I am glad I put myself and the newest book baby out there. Now it’s time to go back to the drawing board, tighten up my offerings, and really get this company off the ground. I still plan to continue to pitch my business and enter as many contests and grants to afford the printing of the first 1,000 books of my children’s book. Thank you so much for following this journey.
I think the coolest thing was I pitched alongside my friend who owns, Imani Cowrie, a 3-D Printed jewelry company. She did a great job (low key in my mind, I was like she has it). Her business is dope, she has the following. I mean she was featured in Essence! Heck, I was lowkey nervous! But that’s how I see the future, my friends and I on top reaching back to bring others with us. Congratulations to Tasia, owner of Butter You Up Naturally for winning. Plus, we all walked away with an app!! Yesss!!!!
I believe kids need to have conversations about money early and often. I know this message will impact the world. If this resonates with you, let’s stay connected.
P.S. I celebrated my 6-month book anniversary. I’ve officially been a published author for 6 months! Wow! Time flies when you’re having fun. I was supposed to post this weekend but was saddened by the loss of Chadwick Boseman and I wanted to be sensitive to his loss and grieve accordingly. Not done grieving, but I am thankful for his life and creativity. May he rest in peace and may his legacy live on, WAKANDA FOREVER.
