As we hit a milestone of 1 Million Page Views in just three months, I want to take some time to reflect on my own journey.
I feel it is important to share a little bit of my path, as it may help you in your own walk. Not to help you get more page views, even though we all want that magic formula, right?
What I really wanted to share is that I owe it all to a supportive community, to people who have extended a helping hand, who have submitted my name for opportunities I never thought I would be presented with. I truly owe my success to others!!!! I believe the freedom and understanding to be able to say that, gives me power to get to even higher places.
Along this journey, I’ve made sure I was giving back, in between my hustle and bustle, I’ve managed to help 82 bloggers this year … yes, I kept track … I had no plan to share that with you, but that inner voice told me, maybe, just maybe if I shared, you would be prompted and inspired to do the same! Every time a blogger contacted me and I could do something to help her/him or give them my time, they were added to my happy list! My pay it forward list.
I’ve had this conversation so many times with other bloggers. People grow and forget others; how many times I’ve asked for help from people whom I thought were my friends and all I encountered was a cold shoulder.
I think fear is the highest obstacle …
Fear of competition, fear of losing the next job in a blogger network, fear of introducing somebody and losing a position … I’m here to tell you, fear is your enemy!
Even earlier this year, when on Cinco de Maio, another Latina blogger went crazy on me after I said I do celebrate it and see nothing wrong with people who do! Her cursing towards me, my family and her unprofessional attitude reflected in her rant towards such an insignificant subject, showing her fear; But what was really evident, was how much she resented my success, way before the episode … her hating words were not towards my preference for celebrating Cinco de Maio, they were towards me, my success and all I represent that she doesn’t have.
The realization hit me, when instead of talking about Cinco de Maio, she started talking about me having “fake numbers” and calling my poor husband a “white Trump voter” … that episode will be forever etched in my mind. I walked out of that conversation without saying much, if you know me, you know I hate drama.
However, the episode did fuel my passion to help others and bring them along on my journey! I didn’t have to explain to that blogger, who I really am and what I really do, because my actions are felt by the ones I help and lives I touch … by the ones that matter.
Earlier this year I was surprised by a large brand manager at a conference saying to me (brand ambassador) in front of an influencer I had just introduced to her:
“Claudia, we are always amazed how you are always bringing new influencers to meet us!”
I thought why? I’m just doing my job …
What I truly believe is that NOBODY can take my place. Doors which are meant to be opened for me, will forever be open! Nobody is like me, we’re all different, so the Universe has a way of tailoring the opportunities to each of our unique journeys. Opening the doors for others just makes my path even wider and opens even more doors. Energy flows where attention goes … and it comes back, just trust me, it really does!
I decided to write this post, after a friend privately suggested it. I had just helped a blogger two nights ago for 2 hours on the phone to set a strategy for her blog and my friend’s message the next morning just touched me!
She said: “I don’t see people out there doing what you do, maybe if you share your story, we’ll see more of it.”
There were times when people asked for help and I couldn’t help or people came over and over asking for brand’s contacts, which sometimes I can’t share, not because I don’t want to, but because I can’t – the brand doesn’t like nor appreciate it. It’s important to know when the person really needs your help and when they are just trying to use your help! It’s important to know when you can help! There is a big difference!
So … next time somebody asks for help and you are in a position to help, please do it. Because remember, there’s no competition, your only competition is yourself.
Trust me!
And it takes a village to grow and succeed! Your wings will not reach the sky and your full potential realized until you understand your own path and purpose, and live that every day of your life without fear, embracing others and giving a helping hand!
I live that life right now! Success for me is a blessing I have the privilege and joy to share with others!
There is no greater reward than that!
Don’t be that tree shining alone in the snow, be the tree shining along with others, because the light always shines brighter that way.
I truly can’t wait to hear what you think about this controversial topic! As usual, give us a Trendy Shout!
I know I am a bit late to comment but I just found your post. Thank you for writing this! As I am writing a post about how my whole career has succeeded with the help of others and how flying solo won’t do because it does take a village, your words warmed my heart. Thank you for sharing and make no mistake, I am including your post in my post and will tag you! I feel like if we knew each other, we would be fast friends! Gracias! Maritere
Beautifully stated. I am always very impressed by how hard you work and by your very giving nature. Thank you for this gentle reminder.
What an inspirational post! I’ve always been a huge proponent of women supporting women. It’s so important to lift others up and to help when we can. Thank you for being a strong woman who lifts other women up!
What a perfect post especially for this holiday time of year. You are absolutely a special person, I’ve felt that in my heart from the moment I met you. I love following your journey and seeing all you successes – it truly makes my heart smile to see someone so generous and caring doing so well and sharing so much. I hope 2018 brings you even more happiness!
Completely agree with everything you say here. That has been my motto since I first learned you can make an income through blogging, to always help others that like us struggles during the first years. I’ve worked with brands that have 8-10 other bloggers make recipes with their product and no one repeats a recipe. Everyone has an unique perspective and there’s room everyone. Keep on being you, I am so proud of you. Thanks for always having time for me. Love you to pieces my Brazilian sister.
This is such a refreshing post! I’ve encountered the non-responsive type as well and I just don’t understand those that live on their island alone without contact. As women and as professionals, it’s so important to help others learn and grow! I’m so grateful to have met you in this past year and to have our paths cross multiple times! Congratulations on 1 million!
I’ve learned this as well! I’m not on the same level but still in the same circles and have the ability to help my fellow writers. It feels better to help others and connect people than not to. Your heart is big. Thank you for sharing it. 🙂
Yes girl! Just yes! It’s amazing when we give, what comes back to us. I love this and your heart behind it all. 🙂
I absolutely loved this post! You are inspiring, and I love the fact that you pay it forward. That is why you are successful. I can’t wait to work with you this upcoming year!
So so true about all of this. I don’t think you’re ever negative and you definitely never stop working to inspire others. xo
Wonderful post! You have been so helpful to me and so inspiring. I love that you have such a giving nature and that you are such a positive, confident model of success. I wish there were more bloggers like you out there, it would be amazing to see what a community of women who truly supported and lifted each other could accomplish. Keep shining your light, it’s only going to get brighter. And the ones who are comparing and cursing you will fade into the crowds cheering your name, my friend.
Keep being awesome!! Its so good that you help others. Im not sure it is as rare as it seems. I think it is just done mostly behind the scenes.
Claudia, I love your energy and you are so warm and giving! Keep helping others and even more good will come your way! Excited to work with you and Mark in 2018!!!
Claudia, thank you for always taking the time to give me recommendations and guidance! You have always been a true inspiration, handle yourself with grace and poise and professionalism and also with a smile! I have enjoyed this past year with you growing our friendship and especially spending time with your son and husband in Ohio. That meant so much to me that you included me in your plans with them. You have a beautiful family and I am honored to call you my friend!
Terrific attitude and I’m not surprised that you’ve helped others, because I see it by your absolute graciousness when I see you. I’m glad I know you.
I am so inspired by you and your perspective on bringing others along to share in your success! As women we succeed when we all succeed!