I’m sure you’ve heard all types of opinions about last night’s epic Verzuz battle. For days everyone took to social media to rave about #TeamBrandy or #TeamMonica. The memes were hilarious by the way. Although I had an overall fav, I truly love both artists and equally purchased all of their albums over the years.
The trip down memory lane was nostalgic. It brought back so many memories of good times, lessons learned and nights in the club. Aside from the musical genius between the two ladies an even larger concept was seen by 1.2 million viewers. Everyone witnessed healthy collaborations by two well established artists who were put against each other since day one.
Oh and let’s not forget about their memorable fashion. Brandy took a more comfortable yet trendy approach with the stylish duster. Whereas Monica stunted in a more regal, high fashion look. All in all we saw queens celebrating life. We saw queens vibing to music. We saw queens letting their guard down to come together in harmony. We saw Black Girl Magic. We saw that Black Lives Matter.
Last night was a great representation of Black culture. However, some women still struggle with the power of collaboration. Some women lack having a village to go to. In this day in age it is crucial to recognize the power of collaborations and goalfriends. You can’t go through life alone. Although I consider myself to be an introvert, I still have a team. I still collaborate. I even work better with healthy collaborations. You can too!
Find Commonalities with other Goal Crushers or Goalfriends. Network with other women who share similarities in hobbies, creativity, careers and families. Come out of that shell to build rapport with others. Chances are, you are not the only one experiencing certain things; so a new goalfriend or two can really benefit your growth.
Show Up and Show Out. You can’t be the goalfriend that constantly takes and never gives. Don’t be the one always asking to have others at their events but you never show to other gatherings. It has to be a mutual exchange of 50/50. You truly get what you put in too.
Get Focused. We often bounce ideas around with our goalfriends. But it’s time to put action to those meaningful ideas too. Nothing hurts collaborations more than sharing a great idea with no follow through.
Just Say No to Naysayers. As soon as you collaborate and start crushing goals, here comes the peanut gallery shading your new goalfriend. Well, let it fly. Although it’s good to be cautious at times, recognize your new collaboration and embrace the change. Maybe your collaboration is bringing out the best in your new goalfriend.
Black women are too often expected to constantly have beef with one another. Let’s start embracing the new normal to make lasting connections. The recent Verzuz battle was a true testament to faith in friendships, creativity and positive teamwork in heels. Go in grace and don’t let last night be the only time you connect in healthy collaboration.
Managing Editor, C. Scott, is a mompreneur, author and blogger. Follow her on social media at @curls_coils and @mysweettealife.
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