ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

There is not enough room to thank all of the people who have been a sounding board in my life and patient with me through this process. I wrote this book in the midst of so many life challenges, but I’m so glad I was surrounded with nothing but love to get through it and see my dream come to fruition.

I am eternally grateful for the two most important men in my life: Thanks to my husband for believing in my dreams and clapping louder for me than I do for myself. He has allowed me the space and time to be creative and focus, while remaining compassionate with my mood swings. Thank you to my son, who has been right there every step of the way, while making me laugh to take a break from writing. I’m thankful for all of the mommy and son time we’ve had during this process, while in quarantine. He’s truly the best son a mother could have. I love you both so much.

To my family: aunts, uncles, and cousins who have been praying for me during this process. Your guidance has been a source of strength and comfort. Thank you for sharing my work and sending me all of your well wishes.

I wish my grandparents were still here to share this moment. I feel their love and blessings over my life daily. I’ve worn my grandparents’ wedding bands on my necklace, and held them close to my heart for guidance and protection. Without their sacrifice, my success wouldn’t have been possible.

To my dearest cousin, T.J.: Thank you for being my big sister. All of our lives, it has always felt like it was just us. Thank you for sharing stories about Granny that helped me write this book. More importantly, your support means the world.

I’m grateful for all of the mentors who have played a role or planted a seed in my life—Selma Jackson, Samantha Brown, Ms. Ellis, Dr. Meena Bose, Dr. Juanita Richardson, Dr. Bridget Welch, Jamie Kern Lima, Ryan Serhant, Rohini Dey, Debra Wabnik-Hope, Barbara Corcoran, my editorial families at Inc. magazine and Entrepreneur magazine, and many more that have personally impacted and invested in my success over the years.

To my friends, advisors, and colleagues: Thanks for making me laugh. There were many days I wanted to throw my laptop through the window and hide. You kept assuring me that there are people who need to know the importance of No Explanation Required!

To Starbucks, Trader Joe’s, and Maxwell House: Thank you for keeping me awake at night so I could keep writing, thinking, and editing. Caffeine played a major role in my creativity, and without you, late-night writing sessions would not have been possible. You’ve all kept me going, especially with a double shot of espresso and matcha tea—it’s a must.

I am also thankful for some of the traumatic and toxic workplace behaviors that helped me find my voice and learn the importance of self-advocacy.

I am grateful for everyone who rejected me, laughed, and told me to be realistic. I am negatively motivated, and I used it as fuel to succeed. In the words of Beyoncé, “You’re the best thing I never had.” Thank you for doubting me, while peeking at my timeline and stories on social media. I don’t take anything personally, but I am grateful that I don’t allow rejection to stop me.

I am grateful for my amazing editors and team at McGraw Hill. You are absolutely the best!

Lastly, I am overwhelmed by the support of my team at The Confidence Factor for Women. The gifts and words of encouragement kept me going when sleepiness started kicking in. Thank you for giving me the time and space I needed, while taking so many tasks off of my plate, especially when I was close to the finish line.