Absolutely Inspired

Just got back from a panel discussion via Social Media Week: Women in Social Media Panel. It was amazingly inspiring and most definitely needed. Let's just say I've had to look at the LolCats website a few times since my last post to get me into a happy place. And I'm pretty sure my boyfriend thinks I'm a highly dramatic, emotional wreck to which I've tried to assure him that this is only temporary ... I swear!

Each panelist gave valuable advice and all seemed to come from similar places. They graduated from top colleges, attempted to go into traditional media or dying industries, tried to encourage their companies to utilize social media and eventually struck out on their own when they realized their companies were slow to change. Everyone seemed to have been struggling when literally one moment, introduction, or idea changed their lives and catapulted them into success - the kind of success where they have control over their own destiny and enjoy what they do. Jordan Reid's genuine kindness was a good reminder that if you smile at the world, the universe will smile back. Alexa offered practical advice about starting a business - Seth Godin's "Purple Cow" and "Free Prize Inside" are on my book list. I'll be sure to follow Meghan Muntean's soon to be launched website ChickRx, a brilliant website idea that answers questions we may be too afraid to ask our mothers. And Casey Carter may have encouraged me to move my blog to Tumblr for the community of people and dashboard feature. The moderator, Neha Chauhan kept the conversation going and asked insightful questions, leading to informative answers. All in all, a successful event.

Meghan, Jordan and Casey
Neha and Meghan

Casey and Alexa