As we prepare to bid adieu to Women’s History Month, it’s essential to remember that the spirit of this month is not confined to just thirty-one days—it’s a commitment we carry with us 24/7/365.
I am thrilled to share a feature that not only showcases the core of my work but also echoes the continuous celebration of women’s contributions and achievements. This opportunity led me down a path of deep introspection, inviting me to dive deeper into how I truly embody the principles I champion. It sparked a moment of reflection, a pause to contemplate my presence in this world and to ensure the authenticity of my actions aligns with my words.
A heartfelt thank you to the women of National Checking Company (NCCO) for this feature! Your recognition is not just an honor; it’s a reminder of our collective journey toward empowerment and equality every day of the year.
READ THE FULL FEATURE BELOW
What inspired you to start this business?
The inspiration for starting the 2nd iteration of Transforming Positivity into Power, the women’s extension of my non-profit, Girls Are Powerful, emerged from a period of profound personal challenges. I faced emotional life shifts, burnout, the empty nest syndrome, and tragedy, which collectively stirred something deep within me. The world seemed to be pulling me in countless directions, and I found myself in immediate need of a PAUSE—an opportunity to breathe and recalibrate.
In response to this inner call, I gathered a group of girlfriends, not just for socializing but with a purpose. We focused on breathing and movement, recognizing that the hustle of daily life seldom affords us the chance to take a breath, let alone address the trauma that often becomes embodied, lingering within us unacknowledged and unresolved. This gathering was not just an act of self-care; it was a foundational step toward building a community where women could empower each other through shared experiences of vulnerability and strength. Transforming Positivity into Power was born out of the understanding that there is immense strength in vulnerability and in the collective spirit of women supporting women. It represents a commitment to not only pause and heal but also to honor our collective experiences and transform them into a source of power and inspiration for others.
What are you most thankful for?
Naturally, I am thankful for my family and friends. However, on a deeper level, I honor the wisdom I’ve gained through various trials and tribulations. Being on the other side of those challenges, I’ve come to truly appreciate and honor the journey towards self-acceptance, self-love, and empowerment. It has taught me the importance of seeking joy, encouraging me to embrace every moment with an open heart and a spirit of gratitude.
What do you feel most passionate about?
I am passionate about empowering individuals to realize their full potential, especially those who may feel overlooked or undervalued. My passion comes from my personal journey—initially inspired by my desire to empower my daughter, it evolved into a broader mission that has positively impacted the lives of many girls over the past decade. Along this journey, I discovered that my own path to self-acceptance, self-love, and empowerment was deeply intertwined with my efforts to uplift others. This means my passion extends beyond a personal mission; it embodies a belief in the transformative power of self-love and personal empowerment. It’s about the widespread impact and the positive ripple effect that come from empowering just one individual, contributing to a legacy of empowerment and change.
How do you manage feelings of doubt?
Acknowledging the ebb and flow of self-doubt is important, and that it happens to all of us – it will come, and it will go. During those moments of self-doubt, it’s important to have a meaningful internal dialogue. This process involves unpacking the feelings, reframing the narrative, and identifying the root cause of the doubt. We must remember that we have the power to choose how we respond to these feelings and for how long they impact us.
What is something you would tell your younger self?
I love you. I love your tall self, your curvaceous self, your brown self. Stand tall, smile broadly, and embrace the confidence that you have everything under control. Whatever challenges you face, know that you are capable of navigating through them. Never silence your voice; continue to practice and express yourself, even in moments of fear or nervousness. Above all, trust in your intuition—it’s your most powerful guide.
What are some events that you offer to women that may empower and inspire women?
I am dedicated to empowering and inspiring women through a variety of transformative events.
Our GRP Mother-Daughter and Caregiver Events are designed as an opportunity to strengthen the bonds between generations. Transforming Positivity into Power – Wisdom, Truth, and Fortitude (WTF) Experiences provides a nurturing space for women to pause, reflect, and concentrate on their well-being and self-care through engaging and interactive sessions. Together, these events encapsulate my mission to create a world where every woman feels empowered to realize her full potential, supported by a community that believes in the transformative power of love, empathy, and unwavering support.
Where can women reach out to you for information on events, books, etc.?
Please visit my website at www.shawntanhowell.com, check out my socials (Instagram: @iamshawntan, Facebook: @shawntanofficial), or email me directly: me@shawntanhowell.com.
I’m thrilled to announce the release of my first official workbook, “The Serenity Plan: A Workbook for Joy, Growth, and Well-Being.” What began as a personal list of rules that supported and shaped my approach to life has transformed into Serenity Guiding Principles.
For a deeper dive into my work and philosophy, I invite you to read my profile feature on Medium: “From Chaos to Calm: The Voyage to Overcoming Burnout.” This piece offers a glimpse into the motivations and experiences that shape my mission to empower, inspire, and self-care.
