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For some (read: many) 2016 left much to be desired. In ways that the political system may have had us all scratching our heads and wondering what would be next, there’s a good chance that the seeds you planted in 2016 will begin to spread their roots in 2017. If this is the case, you want to be ready.
2016 was a huge reminder that fear should be a motivator, not a paralyzer.
Personally, it was the year that I bet on myself in big ways. I co-hosted a podcast that focused on trailblazing Latinas — something that as a behind-the-scenes person, I never thought I would do. I traveled for my first international speaking gig (for the UN in Geneva, Switzerland, no less!) and I took my career as an entrepreneur to the next level.
But for all of my successes in 2016, I’m looking forward to 2017 the most. Every Latina who told me their story inspired me to tackle 2017 with bigger dreams and larger-than-life goals because if their stories are any indication, nothing is impossible as long as you’re intentional, mindful and know your value.
Here are 17 pieces of advice that are guaranteed to carry you through 2017.
“I have to be the one most responsible for my career.”
Ceci Bastida, an independent Latin recording artist, shared this with me during an interview on the lessons her career has taught her. It’s guaranteed to be at the top of my list for 2017 inspiration.
“Don’t be afraid to ask for money.”
Whether you’re negotiating a raise, an acquisition or pricing your rates a bit higher, Liliana Valleta’s advice should be internalized and practiced.
“We are all entitled to make a living as creatives.”
Emma Ramos knows a thing or two about pricing your work to reflect your value and encourages creatives to do the same. No one wins when you’re selling yourself (and the value you bring!) short.
“Be stubborn on vision and flexible on journey.”
Noramay Cadena’s personal journey is one of a girl boss. Cadena went from teen mom to 3 MIT degrees and is committed to paying all she’s learned forward. For her it starts with reminding everyone — especially Latinas — that being stubborn and flexible can be the recipe for success.
“Be tough, be ambitious and know exactly what you want.”
Don’t let anyone tell you that your desire to change the world in the best way you know how is unattainable; if you need a bit of real life inspiration just look to Francesca Kennedy’s Ix Style. After a family trip to South America, Kennedy turned a single Aha Moment into determined steps to creating a profitable, socially conscious business.
“It is important for you to be your best champion.”
Turn 2017 into the year that you embrace the nuances and value of your own story, it’ll make it easier for others to champion it if you lead the charge. We have Julissa Arce to thank for that piece of advice.
“Treat your online voice and presence with the thoughtfulness and kindness you treat your offline persona.”
Ana Flores is the CEO and Founder of #WeAllGrow, a company whose mission is dedicated to connecting Latina creators with brands that understand their personal stories. The key to creating a compelling online brand is to make authenticity your nonnegotiable.
“Being an entrepreneur is a little unheard of in our culture because you’re brought up to play the safe card.”
Mabel Marquez, a Latina SoulCycle Instructor, understands the complexities of being a Latina entrepreneur, but the key is to not let the fear stop you. Just because it’s unheard of doesn’t mean it’s wrong.
"It may not get done this second, but it will get done. We just need to be kinder to ourselves.”
Make 2017 the year you prioritize your mental health and are a little kinder to yourself. As Dior Vargas explained in an episode of Creating Espacios, it’s okay to cut yourself slack.
"Give yourself the time to reflect and introspect. You’ll emerge fresh, creative and inspired."
Frances Alban, the Founder & CEO of Alban Communications, encourages you to take a much needed moment to recharge. It can be the difference between a high performing year and burning out mid-year.
“Every day that I go to work, I am representing my family and speaking truth to their struggles — and that gives me the confidence to succeed.”
Lean in to your roots and let them guide you in your career. Yesenia Almonte, a former magazine editor and current executive at Avon, is the perfect example of how this piece of advice can lead to success.
“No blogger, youtuber or digital influencer exists in a vacuum.”
Community is key to building up your brand, explains Flores, CEO of #WeAllGrow.
“Rejection can be hurtful and discouraging but this is what makes us stronger.”
Ariana Stein, the co-founder of Lil Libros, said it best. Realistically, 2017 will have its hand of failures and let downs, it’s what you do with those that will make your 2017 all it needs to be.
"Believing in the inevitability of success does wonders for helping you trudge through the rough patches"
Trust your gut. Noramay Cadena did and it got her far, let trusting your gut take you to big places as well.
“Getting outside of that bubble, that's when the magic happens."
Challenge yourself to live outside your comfort zone. Reject being risk averse and take ESPN's Jessica Mendoza's words to heart.
"Don't wait for an invitation, because someone might be silently shouldering the weight of the world."
Whether you apply Andrea Guendelman's advice to your career or personal life, taking initiative is never a bad way to go.
"Start with the audience that you know better than anybody."
Are you considering starting a new project? Nely Galan, New York Times bestselling author, says the first step is to start with what you know. It'll help anchor you.
