The Taraji Effect
By Brandi N. Williams If you’re somewhat new to Nashville, like me, perhaps you’d look to connect with others who are willing to share resources or attend local events. Connecting is not just about what you can get. It’s about having a genuine interest in what someone is up to, possibly learning their life story, or gaining a sense of their professional journey.
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et’s be honest. Most of us have that one singer or actress who, in our head, is our favorite homegirl. That’s how I feel about actress, Taraji P. Henson. Who wouldn’t want to be her friend?! Taraji was one of Time Magazine’s most influential people in 2016. Taraji is authentic, hardworking, fashionable, and Godfearing. Taraji plays Cookie on Empire for goodness sake! I mean, really, who wouldn’t want to be her friend?! Yet, while Taraji is all these things and more, what I love most about her is that she truly understands the power of women sticking together. I first noticed this about her during the 2015 Emmy Awards. Taraji, as well as Viola Davis, were nominated for outstanding lead actress in a Drama Series--a category that no African American woman had ever won. Viola won that night and Taraji stood, clapping for her as if she was clapping for herself. When asked about this moment, Taraji admitted that it was bittersweet and that she would have loved the opportunity. Taraji also stated that her prayer for that night was bigger than herself. She prayed for barriers to be broken on behalf of African American actresses. Her prayer was answered. After witnessing that I said, “Man! I need to get like Taraji!” 30
Women Who Rock Nashville
Pondering that moment, here’s what I concluded: 1. Taraji connected with Viola: She knew Viola had been in the industry longer and may naturally reach particular milestones prior to her. 2. At some point, they collaborated. At minimum, as black women in the film industry, they shared information or encouragement. 3. Taraji was able to celebrate Viola because she respected her and her craft, and she knew that Viola’s success did not mean her failure. Isn’t that powerful?! I think it is and I call that The Taraji Effect! I once heard Taraji say, “Women gotta understand; we work better together. The power in women sticking together? We will change the world. And until we get that, we’re going nowhere.” So ladies, let’s do it! Let’s get like TARAJI! Let’s tap into the power of connecting, collaborating, and celebrating with other women. CONNECT Connecting with others is vital to success! As the old saying goes, birds of a feather flock together. Consider looking for a young woman to mentor or someone who can mentor you.
Here’s 3 ways to do that: 1. Do some research: If you come across another sister online or at an event that peaks your interest, find out what she’s about. 2. Foster a relationship: Be friendly by connecting via social media or inviting them for coffee. 3. Create reciprocity: Be the first one to support another sister’s event or offer a beneficial connection. Some connections will turn into friendships. Some won’t go past Twitter. Others may be for mutual benefits and association. Either way, take the lead and assert yourself. Why is connecting with others crucial to The Taraji Effect? Generally we judge others based on superficial things. However, when we know someone’s story or their common interests, we’re likely to be more open. COLLABORATE Collaboration is a mindset: Everybody wins, everybody eats. In a world where people are independent and individualistic to a fault, many fail to realize that being collaborative is just as important as being resilient or driven. If for some reason collaboration does not come naturally to you, I would suggest exploring types of collaborative efforts that may interest you (i.e. business idea, community event, party). For those who are entrepreneurs, you know that entrepreneurship and the world of business thrives upon collaboration. It’s as essential as the concept of business.
