Expert Spotlight: Ericka Spradley
Today's Monday Mindset is all about one of our expert career coaches, Ericka Spradley. Ericka is the definition of a woman who lives and breathes confidently. She believes that all women deserve to be true to themselves and she is on a mission to help other women understand their worth to live more confident and empowered lives.
We caught up with Ericka who gave us some expert tips on how others can build their confidence.
What does confidence mean to you?
Confidence is rooted in belief; belief in someone or something. If I had to define confidence, I would say it’s the power to believe in yourself beyond the influence of external factors and opinions. Although confidence is something that women around the world struggle with; the GREAT news is that every woman has the power to make confidence a lifestyle by committing to believe in herself on a daily basis. Confidence in its simplest form comes down to a choice.
What is something you would tell your younger self to help her confidence?
I would tell my younger self that confidence begins at home – literally and to never leave home without it! I would then tell my younger self that life introduces people and situations that can cause you to question your confidence. However, when you know who you are, what your values are and who you are not, you’ll have the clarity to discern who/what you should say yes to as well as who/what you should say no to.
How has your confidence grown overtime?
Although confidence isn’t something I’ve struggled with, I can say that others see me as “more” confident since I shaved my head. I’ve had conversations with strangers that range from how bold I am, to their experiences with hair loss, cancer, etc. to how afraid they are to wear their hair like mine. These conversations encourage me to continue to show up confidently and authentically.
What tips/advice would you give to others to improve their confidence?
Because I believe every woman should excel at work and know her worth, my advice is to silence the “inner critic”. There’s this tendency to focus on our flaws, limitations and shortcomings vs our strengths, skillset, accomplishments and results. When negative thoughts, self-limiting beliefs, etc. arise, replace them immediately with positive, affirming, powerful thoughts.
What is one mantra or inspirational quote you live by?
Psalm 139:14 “I am fearfully and wonderfully made” is what I live by. I started my book, Confident Career Woman with this verse and principle to encourage myself as well as other women to understand that no one is perfect; that no one does all things well and that each of us has a unique combination of experience, education, talents and gifts. Because of these things, we truly are enough. It’s ultimately up to us as individuals to believe that we are.