Tell us about yourself.
I am 30 years old and have lived in the West Fargo area for the majority of my life! I am married to my best friend and together we have a 9-year-old daughter who keeps us on our toes. Our home is busy with cats, fish, snails and frogs. I love spending time with my family, friends, traveling, reading, having a girls’ day with my mom and daughter and finding a new series to binge-watch.
How long have you been in your field?
It will be four years in March!
What is important to you about the work that you do?
Whether it’s giving advice on upholstery or assisting somebody who has been struggling to sleep at night to find the right mattress, putting in the effort and knowing that the customer is well taken care of is the most important part of my job.
Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?
All of my friends and family have been very influential in my journey. They have supported me through all of my programs, have encouraged me to try new things and have celebrated my accomplishments, big and small. I truly have a great village on my side.
What drives you?
My daughter, Harper has been the driving force in all that I do. Every decision that I make involves her. She will grow up to be a woman in the workforce and my goal is to make sure that she sees me doing everything I can to better myself not only professionally but personally.
What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?
Comparing yourself to others doesn’t give you anything but lower self-esteem. I also have learned that you cannot control other people’s opinions or actions but you can control how you respond to them.
What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?
My family and I enjoy going to the Veterans Memorial Pool in the summer along with enjoying all the parks available in the area. I also enjoy seeing what all the local businesses in the FM Area have to offer.
What is your dream job and why?
I would really love to start my own professional development/training workshop. The two leadership programs that I have been a part of have really inspired me to go toward that goal.
Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?
I am still working on getting more personal development books on my list but in general, I would say anything by Shari Lapena!
What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program?
I am hoping to gain additional knowledge on how I can improve my leadership style while also recognizing how others lead. I also am looking forward to networking with all of the amazing women in my class!
What do you think can be improved in our community?
I think that as a community, we need to continue to watch out for each other. It’s not always easy but when our community is in need, we show how much we care.
What do you think can be improved in our business community?
I believe that providing leadership programs to all sectors of business in our community is vital and should be offered more, especially in the retail and food industries. I believe that empowering employees at high-turnover jobs can help them feel more comfortable and motivated in their positions.
What are some of your passions outside of work?
My passions include spending quality time with my daughter, finding ways to better improve myself such as classes and really just enjoying time with those I care about the most.
Is there anything else you would like to say to the readers of Fargo INC! magazine?
If you are an employer in the FM Area, I highly suggest that you encourage the members of your team to join professional development programs like the United Way 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program! I have learned so much and have used the tools I have been given to improve my life both personally and professionally.
