When The Limited launched it’s Scandal line a little over a year ago, I was flooded with messages of OMG VAL YOU HAVE TO GET YOUR BUTT TO THE MALL! See, I’ve become known around these parts as the “Olivia Pope of Small Businesses”. Hand me a problem you’re having and I’ll swiftly fix it. I’ll call in the favors, question you ’til the truth comes out, and don my white hat to make your business magic happen. And now I can do it all in a gorgeous cream colored suit.
While I tend to prefer distressed jeans and technical cashmere to Olivia’s gorgeous heels and wide-leg pants combos, I DO love the ethos by which Ms. Pope does business. With her team, her (ahem) lovers, and with her clients, Olivia is truly boss at every turn.
Here’s what this powerhouse woman has taught me:
“Whatever happens, we do not give up. It is my name on that door, and I do not give up.”
Roughly once a month (okay, sometimes once a week) I want to call it quits. Dreams of running away to live in a cottage in Vermont are real and, just like you, I have #allthethings that it takes to run a business weighing on my mind constantly. The struggle is real. Thanks to Olivia, I’m reminded that it’s my name on the door, er, website, and I do not give up. Buckle up, honey. It’s time to own it.
“My gut tells me everything I need to know.”
Making decisions is as common in running a business as breathing air. There isn’t a day that goes by that I am not making roughly 47 decisions before lunch. It turns out, when I listen to that still small voice inside and follow my gut, decision making is easier and the result is always more beautiful.
“I am very good at what I do. I am better at it than anybody else.”
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“I’m many things, stupid is not one of them.”
Confidence is everything in business. Learning to build my own confidence was one of the best investments I’ve ever made as an entrepreneur. While Olivia Pope certainly has her fair share of uncertain moments behind closed doors (I feel ya, Liv), her confidence rolls off of her in waves every time she opens her office door. Hmmmm….maybe it’s those sexy heels….
[Tweet ““I am very good at what I do. I am better at it than anybody else.” – Olivia Pope (and me)”]
“I’m never out of options.”
The ability to pivot keeps a business running during hard times. We all come up against them (even those of us who clearly get paid quite well, thankyouverymuch) and knowing how to assess your options will keep you moving forward. Be flexible and your name will always stay on that door.
“I don’t want to talk. I want to eat too many fries and drink way too much wine, and have a relaxing evening.”
Relax. Running a business (or handling high powered political scandals) can be stressful. Don’t forget to take some time out for yourself. Grab a girlfriend (or a sexy man-friend) and take some advice from Olivia to just chill.
And, obvi, when all else fails, just give your clients (and yourself) a simple “It’s handled.” for an instant confidence boost and boss status upgrade.
Are you ready to tune in for the season premiere of the most scandalous show on primetime? Grab some popcorn, a big glass of wine, and remember to channel your inner Olivia the next time you come up against a tough situation in your own biz.
