She bet on herself at 23, and it paid off big time.

At 23, most people are still figuring out their lives.

I was exploring paths, weighing options, and finally decide to start my first business. My 20s were full of exploration and knowledge, and two decades later, I’m still going strong.

Back to Today's spotlight.? ?

At just 23, Octavia Warren Gilmore Warren Gilmore had already launched her own business: a marketing firm.

Her story, however, began much earlier. At the age of 14, Octavia discovered her passion for graphic design. By the time she entered college to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts, she was already freelancing, building both a strong portfolio and a loyal client base. These early efforts gave her the confidence and foundation she needed to launch her business straight out of college. Over the past 11 years, Creative Juice which started solely with her talent and determination as a one-woman hop, has grown into a thriving marketing firm, employing a diverse team spanning nine countries.

What makes Octavia’s journey even more inspiring is her dedication to paying it forward. Recognizing the lack of diversity in the ownership and management of marketing firms, she is committed to supporting other minority-owned firms in the field and mentoring young people with similar passions. Through speaking engagements, active community involvement, and her platform, The Millennial CEO, Octavia provides invaluable advice, guidance, and support to those striving to turn their side hustles into thriving businesses.

My Reflection:? Octavia's story is a masterclass in courage and vision. She reminds us that success isn’t about waiting for the "right time", it’s about starting where you are, with what you have.?

Your gifts don’t just belong to you. They’re seeds meant to grow, bloom, and nourish the world. Every act of courage you take doesn’t just change your life. It shifts the lives of everyone watching, of everyone waiting for permission to step into their greatness.

So, let Octavia's journey be a reminder: Start before you’re ready. Build even when it feels impossible. Share your light so others can find their own. Because the boldest moves spark the brightest flames and the world is waiting for your fire.

Question for you:?

Am I waiting for the ‘right time,’ or am I ready to bet on myself now?        

Sometimes, the courage to begin is all you need to set greatness into motion.?

Book of the Month

This is the part where I share lessons from our book of the month: Estée: A Success Story by Estée Lauder.

Did you know there’s a study that shows women who wear makeup earn, on average, 30% more than those who don’t?

Fascinating, right?

One of the most remarkable lessons from Estée is the power of showing up as your best self at every opportunity. She beautifully puts it:

"Beauty is the best incentive to self-respect. You may have great inner resources, but they don't show up as confidence when you don't feel pretty. People are more apt to believe you and like you when you know you look fine. And when the world approves, self-respect is just a little easier."

This?lesson highlights a vital truth: how you present yourself creates trust, connection, and opportunities. It’s about communicating that you’re ready to show up, not just for others but for yourself.

The takeaway is clear:

Looking good leads to feeling good, which ultimately empowers you to take your rightful place in the world.

Ask yourself:

Do you feel good about how you present yourself when you step out the door?        

And remember, it’s not just about makeup or external beauty. It’s about embracing how you present yourself in the world and tapping into your feminine superpower of attractiveness and confidence.

Video of the Week

Don’t miss Lindsey Granger’s TED Talk, “Why You Should Set Intentionally Unrealistic Goals”. Granger encourages us to face our fears and approach life with a mindset of continual learning, empowering us to pursue bold dreams without hesitation. A perfect watch for anyone seeking motivation to tackle the week ahead.

Affirmation of the Week

?Read this out loud:

"I don’t know everything, but what I do know, I will do to the best of my ability!"        

Let these words guide you as you step into this week, ready to embrace courage and determination in all you do.

Wishing you a powerful and productive week!??

Empower yourself to Empower others

Have you noticed how the people around you feel more inspired when you step into your courage? Just like Octavia Warren Gilmore did, launching her marketing firm at just 23, embracing your bravery and letting your light shine can inspire others to follow suit.

When we take bold steps and lead by example, we create a powerful ripple effect of empowerment.

Are you ready to take that leap and shine your brightest in 2025??

Join EmpowerHer to turn?your courage into action. Don't miss it!

P.S. Your?Tuesday is incomplete without this!