More than Money

A few months ago, I had the pleasure of attending a women’s leadership event. Successful women sat in the room. Many of them held the title of CEO or CFO. They were directors, founders, entrepreneurs, etc.  I engaged in conversations, ready to learn all I could from these women. They were living the success I was chasing.

When asked what I did, I said: “I help women tell their story.” I spoke about “Her Story” and the impact. One woman asked me, “Are you making money off of it?”

I was shocked. I paused and looked at her as my brain and mouth got on the same page as to how I would respond. The only thing they could agree on was “no.” She didn’t like that answer. She told me I had something great to offer, and I should be compensated for it.” I thanked her for her suggestion and walked away.

I mentioned her comment to other women, some who had experienced Her Story. They understood her point, but they knew my heart. They saw the value in Her Story, and no dollar amount could be placed on it. 

We brainstormed ideas of how I could make money off of Her Story, just to see.

• “Have women pay a fee to speak!” 

  • Umm, no, that takes away the entire purpose of the event

• ·“Charge people to attend.”

  • Her Story is open to everyone and anyone who wants to hear women’s stories, not only the people who can afford to hear them

• ·“Offer coaching.”

  • Limits who can get the coaching.

We went back and forth on so many options. I had a reason every time why I wouldn’t do it. Her Story was never intended to make money. The purpose of the event is for women to use their voice, share, and connect with other women. The goal was to create a space where women felt seen, heard, and empowered.

We accomplished this twice already and will again in October.

Her Story isn’t an event, but a community, a movement.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. I spend a lot of my time preparing for the event. My time should be compensated. What if I told you I already am, just not by money.

Success and wealth aren’t defined by a dollar amount. What I have gained from organizing and hosting Her Story is priceless. I’ve gained friendships that will last a lifetime. There’s a network and a connection that happens behind the scenes, women sharing their resources.

• One of the very first performers offered to edit and proofread my books. She recognized that’s not my specialty. She has a skill, and she wants to help me at no charge. She is also willing to help the other women.

• One woman attended the second Her Story. She invited me to her event, where she shared her story. There, I had the opportunity to connect with other women. I also connected with the bookstore owner. Possibilities for future events and opportunities were discussed.

• I’ve become known in this community as a woman who empowers other women. Since hosting Her Story, I’ve been asked to speak at events, share my story on podcasts, and in articles.

• Young women are looking up to me and are inspired by my story.

• Countless women have thanked me for being vulnerable and not only sharing my story but also allowing them to share theirs.

The rewards and benefits will continue to grow. Her Story was never to add money to my bank account. It started as a way for me to recite poetry in front of an audience.

Now, it’s become an event people look forward to and want to be a part of.

 But it’s also becoming my legacy. It’s how I give back. It’s how I help others, but most importantly, how I heal.

 And healing is the greatest reward I’ll ever need.