For My Daughter…

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I am addicted to positive thoughts, positive people and positive momentum. Simply said, I am a big fan of optimism. If you follow my blog, my Facebook updates or my comments, you know this to be true! I love inspirational quotes, motivational thoughts and all around positive people. This is what really fills my tank. My closest friends, very positive! When I have struggled at work or had challenges in life, it’s when I have been surrounded by too many negative people. It’s just not a good fit for me. And, if you are not the “cheery” type, I am probably not your cup of tea.

Recently, while visiting an old colleague, I was admiring her wall art. She had quotes around her home that described her personality. I loved it and I quickly went back home to find some appropriate messages for my walls – some inspiration, some positive-ness to surround us! My always-supportive husband rolled his eyes and asked, “isn’t your attitude enough already?” But I went on with my plan!

For Baby Connor’s room, I posted a quote from Winnie the Pooh: “Sometimes the smallest things take up the most room in your heart.” Perfect!
For our living room: “The secret to having it all is knowing that you already do.” Even more perfect!

When it came to choosing a quote for my daughter, my fabulous 5-year-old, I was suddenly overwhelmed. I felt that everything I wanted her to believe, dream, feel and live, I wanted on her walls.

Where would I start? How many messages could I possibly find? How small could I get the font? I want her to be strong and daring. I want her to believe in herself. I want her to be smart and giving. I want her to always be a lady but also be confident. I want her to be kind, above all else. Somehow, I want these messages on the wall to sink in every single night when she lies in bed. Mostly, I don’t want her to be fearful of anything or anyone.

Suddenly I realized….she can’t read yet! Was this message a reminder for her or for me? I chuckled to myself when I found the perfect one. I think I chose one that transcends time; whether she is 5….or she is 40:

YOU ARE STRONGER THAN YOU SEEM, BRAVER THAN YOU BELIEVE, AND SMARTER THAN YOU THINK.

P.S. And, you live in a house full of optimism and love!

Meet Autumn Williams.. our Woman of the Week

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My Name:
–Autumn R. Williams

My Current Job/Company:
–Program Manager for Strategic Planning at The Ohio State University

My Work
–I serve my alma mater in building and refining our strategy to go from excellence to eminence! I get a bird’s eye view of all the amazing things Ohio State does to serve students, faculty, staff and the community.

My Passion
–I have a lot of passion for education equity, social justice and professional development. These are the things I read about most.

My Family
–Given at birth and found through friendship. My family is everyone who loves me unconditionally.

My Heros
–My mom, Audrey. She once told me it is important to give back because someone did it for me. Many people have given of themselves to help me grow and I am forever grateful. I have carried this lesson in leadership with me my entire life and take seriously my responsibility to serve.

My Escape
–In a book… reading rainbow! 

My Pet Peeve
–Wasting time.

My Indulgence
–Traveling, as much as I can.

My Roots
–Humble, faithful and full of love.

My Future
–Infinitely more than I can imagine.

My Love
–Laughing until my cheeks hurt.

My Movie
–Beauty and the Beast.

My Quote on Life
–It’s a tie: (1) “To whom much is given, much is required.”-paraphrase of Luke 12:48
And (2) “But the most exciting, challenging and significant relationship of all is the one you have with yourself. And if you can find someone to love the you you love, well, that’s just fabulous.” –Carrie Bradshaw, SATC

My Accessory
–Tiffany’s bracelets.

My advice to young women
–Pursue everything that interests you, find a mentor… more than one actually and spend time getting to know yourself.

How I balance it all…………….
–I don’t know if it is possible to every truly live a balanced life but I am committed to: making time for regular manicures, working out every day and only saying “yes” to things that align with my personal interests. Long days are only enjoyable if I’m doing things that I WANT to be doing. My priorities will change over time, but at least I won’t have a hang nail.