Empowerment and Incarceration: Lessons I’ve Learned That Propelled My Growth

Seven years ago, when I first walked into Televerde, I never imagined how profoundly my journey here would shape my life. As I prepare to exit prison and reenter my community, it’s almost hard to believe how much has changed – and how much I have changed. Reflecting on the past seven years at Televerde, I recognize that this was not just a chance to learn new skills; it was a lifeline that opened doors to personal transformation and empowerment. The experience I’ve gained in my role has translated into much more than professional growth—it has contributed to my personal transformation in ways I had not expected.

Through hard work, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to self-improvement, I’ve discovered the immense potential within me. This journey has been about more than just a job; it’s been about reclaiming my life and building a future I can be proud of. To that end, there are several important lessons I’ve learned that I would like to share.

Building Strategy, Handling Rejection, and Seeing Things Through

In sales, handling rejection is a daily occurrence. However, learning to face it head-on and strategize to achieve desired outcomes has been crucial to my personal and professional development. This persistence didn’t just help me close deals; it empowered me to rebuild my relationship with my daughter and fueled my determination to get accepted into a master’s program. The key takeaway here is to embrace rejection as a learning opportunity. Each rejection is a chance to refine your approach, build resilience, and stay focused on your goals. Don’t let rejection deter you; instead, let it drive you to work harder and smarter towards your aspirations.

Cultivating Curiosity

At Televerde, we are encouraged to always be curious. This means asking thoughtful, open-ended questions that provoke meaningful answers. This mindset has been invaluable outside of work, allowing me to seek clarity in all areas of life and approach problems with a solution-oriented perspective.

Goal-Oriented Mindset

Having a goal-oriented mindset at work has seamlessly translated into achieving long-term personal goals. The dedication required to follow a sales opportunity mirrors the perseverance needed to pursue higher education or reunite with family. Setting and achieving these goals has taught me that workplace skills are life skills.

Embracing Collective Support

Support from Televerde has been crucial. The encouragement to share my story, the collective push to succeed, and the sense of family here have all played a part in my journey. Seeing the success of others who have been part of this program before me has shown me that I too can achieve significant milestones, like buying a home or repairing my credit, once I’m released.

Learning to Be Vulnerable

Learning to be vulnerable in a productive way has been another critical lesson. Sharing my journey, including the struggles and triumphs, has not only strengthened me but has also helped others see the possibilities for their own lives. It’s a reminder that vulnerability can be a powerful tool for growth and connection.

Recognizing and Celebrating Achievements

Recognizing and celebrating achievements—both my own and those of my colleagues—has been a significant part of my time at Televerde. It’s not just about the millions in revenue we generate for our clients; it’s about the opportunities we create for other women and the broader impact of our success. Seeing these results has made me appreciate the ripple effect of our hard work.

Critical Thinking

Televerde has taught me the importance of critical thinking—seeing more than what’s in front of me and strategizing effectively. This skill has been vital in navigating personal life challenges, helping me to work through complex situations with a clear, solution-focused approach.

The Value of Hard Work and Perseverance

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of hard work and perseverance. Nothing worthwhile comes easy, and it’s essential to chase what you want, even when it’s difficult. I’ve learned that success is earned through dedication and effort. No one is going to hand you your dreams; you have to be willing to pursue them relentlessly. This mindset has not only driven my professional achievements but also my personal growth. It’s about understanding that while support is crucial, you must also be ready to take the initiative and work tirelessly towards your goals.

Looking Forward

As I prepare for my release, I reflect on how much I’ve grown. The skills I’ve learned here have fundamentally changed how I operate, both professionally and personally. Televerde has become more than just a place of employment; it’s been my family and my foundation for the past seven years. I will carry these lessons with me as I move forward, confident in my ability to achieve even more.

The journey doesn’t end here. I am excited for what lies ahead, knowing that the support, skills, and mindset I’ve gained at Televerde will continue to guide me. Thank you to everyone who has been part of this incredible journey. Let’s continue to inspire and uplift each other, both within Televerde and beyond.