We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Pamela Shakir a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Pamela, appreciate you joining us today. Was there a defining moment in your professional career? A moment that changed the trajectory of your career?
The defining moment in my life was when I got divorced. Prior to marriage, I made a commitment to myself that I would honor my vows and be committed to being the best wife. I entered my marriage believing I would be married to this person for the rest of my life. This is what most people say and hope. Unfortunately, life happened and I found myself standing in line filing a petition for divorce. Reflecting back to that moment in time, I realized there was no reciprocity in the marriage. Divorce is heart-rending and life-altering. In the midst of healing, the pain removes itself from your heart, allowing forgiveness to step in and take over. I tell people all the time you will smile and love again. It’s water under the bridge.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
Sure. I am a published author, speaker, podcast host, therapist, and mental health consultant. I am the owner of Healing Minds and Hearts, LLC in Atlanta, GA. I provide psychotherapy to women, couples and individuals who are suffering from relationship trauma, depression and anxiety. I got into this industry due to it falling into my lap. It stemmed from a family tragedy and a fragmented marriage that ignited a desire and passion to help others start their healing journey from trauma. What sets me apart from others is that I share my story. I share what I have been through in hopes to help someone. It makes my heart feel good when I receive testimonies from my clients saying my services helped them navigate through challenges in their life. Servicing others is a gift from God. Do I like accolades? Yes, of course but it’s better to give than to receive.
I have now crossed over into the podcast world. I am one of the host for a fabulous and thought provoking podcast called Authentic Talk- Real Life & Real Stories. Sheryl Brown and I have created a platform that inspires others to become a better version of their current selves. We discuss topics ranging from relationship trauma to mental health. You can catch our live podcast on IG, Facebook and YouTube every Tuesday at 7PM EST @sheryl_masterpiecewomen. Soon to be on all podcast platforms in the near future. What I am most proud of is being a mom. I have three beautiful daughters, Courtney, Lyric and Sa’Miah. God truly winked at me when he gave me these three beauties. I feel tremendously blessed and honored to be their mother. I am also proud of not allowing naysayers opinions to define who I am or keep me in their box. My advice to someone is to be YOU.
Any advice for managing a team?
This is a great question. I have always told myself that once I start managing a team to remember to always show kindness, be respectful and never think you are better than someone else because of a title. First and foremost promote a work-life balance. A great leader will take the time to get to know each individual, recognizing their strengths as well as their weaknesses. A great leader will actively listen, evenly delegate responsibilities, be innovative and provide skill coaching when necessary. Lastly, a great leader should be a great communicator, be able to connect with others, genuine and exude less talk and more action. Maintaining high morale is crucial. My advice to maintaining high morale is to communicate transparently, be open to suggestions, collaborate with your staff, tell them you appreciate them and manage conflict well.
Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?
Currently, I have been reading this book called, Change Matters: 21 Principles of the Process, Purpose & Product of Change. The author, Patrick J. Brown, takes the reader through an in-depth blueprint of how change and transformation takes place within us ultimately leading to God’s purpose for our life. Patrick gives his readers an understanding of what patience is and what it looks like while going through the metamorphosis process. When embarking upon purpose comes a waiting period. Waiting for things to take place can be challenging. This book gives reason to why it is beneficial to wait on what God has for you. Patrick stated in “Change Matters” that “When we settle for mediocrity we consent to inferior quality.” This spoke volumes to me. I strive daily to not settle for nothing less than what God has for me. I am enjoying this book. If you are going through transformation I recommend you read this book.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.pamelashakirlcsw.com
- Instagram: @pamelashakirlcsw
- Facebook: Pamela Shakir
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamela-shakir-lcsw-097a9a1a2
- Other: Facebook Business Page: Healing Minds and Hearts, LLC