Book Review: #GIRLBOSS
I recall my first purchase from Nasty Gal like it was yesterday. I heard great things about the brand from my peers in college, but had never purchased. It wasn't until my twenty-fourth birthday that I finally conceded and bought two of my absolute favorite pieces. This was 2014, around the same time the online retailer opened its first brick-and-mortor store in the City of Angels. I placed my order online, the shipment arrived and I showed up and showed out! The most fabulous thing about stumbling upon a great brand like Nasty Gal, is how it makes you feel when you (finally) wear it.
““Adulthood is where dreams go to die.””
Three years later, I'm out having cocktails with a marketing gal pal and were chatting it up about ideas I had for my blog and she insisted I read, #Girlboss! She insisted so much, we drove to her apartment and she gave me her book.What I appreciated the most is I didn't feel as though I was reading a ponzi scheme or step-by-step plan for 20-something year old feminists entrepreneurs. She doesn't claim to be an expert, she still challenges you to question her advice and to learn / know more. This book is her testimony, it was the seat at the table of her life. The reader feels a sense of connection and awareness learning from the well accomplished business woman and author, Sophia Amoruso! She talks to her readers about her personal experiences and mistakes. With quirky illustration and motivating quotes she expresses her viewpoint on capitalism, life, self determination and founding the fastest-growing retailers in the world. Giving a lot of us young millennial entrepreneurs some hope. [ Puts up three finger salute *The Hunger Games whistle in the background* ]
It's not a whole bunch of fluff, it's actually a good read that many creatives can relate to, especially in this era. Since many are trying to survive this whole "adulting" thing at such an interesting time, informative material like this book is inspiring and it's important! The mysteries of the world and the true meaning of your journey. A lot of the younger generation feels a bit lost but hopeful to discover where they fit amongst it all and where they can thrive, happily.
My 5 Takeaways From " #Girlboss "
1. Confidence - We hear this often but easily forget or ignore it. We are so hard on ourselves, whether that be in regards to our appearance, or expectations for our lives and careers. Unfortunately sometimes we subject ourselves to harsh comparisons and criticism. As we continue to excel in technology, we are bombarded with what we should be, look like, own, or buy. It changes everyday, so don't get caught in the Matrix and lose a sense of identity or your divine truth. Be patient with the evolution of your life and be secure within yourself. No one will believe in you, if you do not believe in yourself.
““ In a society that profits from your self doubt, liking yourself is a rebellious act. “”
2. No Free Lunch - I'm sure you've heard of the economic theory, "there is no such thing as free lunch"; It's important to work hard all the time and learn from everything. Don't let life happen to you and not grow from it. Always get something out of nothing because It's impossible to get something for nothing. It's important to learn from every event in your life, even the not so great moments, situations or jobs. We all have to start somewhere and hopefully you can realize you've learned something from every experience. So just like the theory, we must remove these instantaneous ideas on life, career, and realize everything is a lesson. So, keep learning! I believe if you change your mindset you can do anything.
““There are secret opportunities hidden inside every failure.””
3. How To Market Yourself - Everyone is unique in how they embrace the culture of "networking" We're all different in how we learn, grasp and evolve. When we accept our differences it's a lot easier to recognize how to play on your strengths.
“Every child is an artist. The problem is staying an artist when you grow up.”
4. Creativity Is Life - Always looking for an opportunity to be creative and leaving your mark on even the most simplest things, is fulfilling. I created The Localista because I have a lot of built up creativity and abstract thoughts. It's a platform to just be me, showcase my talent, experiences, while interviewing other talented individuals. In a sense, it's a personal journal and web series to inspire others to adhere to their desires and dreams! Creativity is profound, it's relevant and a purposeful art form. Your creativity doesn't have to die, because you're an adult.
5. Positive Thinking - "We control our thoughts and our thoughts control our lives." Point blank and the period. All you Worry Warts (guilty), Debbie Downer's (guilty), and Negative Nancy's (guilty), need to get your life and focus! You must have control over your thoughts because they manifest. If you are harboring all these concerns, toxic ideas and energy you're only crying out for disappointing results. The Universe can only deliver what you want, so talk about the things you want to happen and stop talking about what you don't want! It's called "intention setting" now combine that with hard work and don't lose sight of what's important.
Always ask questions, always want to know more. Never take anything at face value.
“Magical thinking is the alchemy that you can use to visualize and project yourself into the professional and personal life you want.”
