Something Extra | Wednesday

University of Virginia clinical psychologist Meg Jay called the 20s the “most defining decade of adulthood” in a 2013 TED talk, and with good reason. It is a time to learn, make mistakes, grow, and set the foundation for the rest of our lives. Something Extra asked women about the biggest lessons they’ve learnt in their 20s and 30s, and also about the woman in their lives they most admire.

What’s the biggest lesson you learnt in your 20s/30s?

Denyque Welds-Mullings, entertainer and Lifespan Spring Water ambassador:

“So many big lessons in my 20s, lots of lessons. Your 20s are your learning years. Don’t get me wrong, you will learn every day of your life, as long as you choose to learn, but the 20s are also your selfish years. It’s the opportunity to figure out who you are and what you want as you develop and change. The 20s is about understanding the many levels or many facets of yourself. That was my major lesson in my 20s, learning about me.”

Name a woman you most admire and why?

Da’nielle Bazzoni-Lawrence, founder and managing director, Zone Marketing Limited:

“As cliché as this answer may be, I have to give credit where it is due. My mother is truly my role model. I love and respect her for teaching and instilling several essential qualities in me, mostly by example. I’ve watched her display humility in situations where she could’ve been deservingly proud. She treats everyone with equal respect, and she’s non-judgemental. I’ve unconsciously adopted her ability to have conversations with persons from all walks of life. It’s her humility, coupled with her innate kindness, that indirectly led me to serving as a member of the Rotary Club of Kingston. I want to serve with kindness and humility, like my mother. I must also mention her strength; it’s one of the things I admire the most. She rises to tackle adversity with seeming ease, that I, in my younger years, never detected when times were hard. I also learnt the importance of never quitting, which has enabled me to withstand my entrepreneurial journey even through the toughest times.”

What’s the biggest lesson you learnt in your 20s/30s?

Stephanie Harrison, senior marketing manager, Mayberry Investments Limited:

“I’ve learned so many life lessons thus far; however, the two lessons that stand out to me the most is: 1. Build a support system. Surround yourself with people who will cheer you on when you are down, who will inspire you to pursue your passions, and who will always be there for you, no matter what. 2. It’s never too late to work on your inner self. I have life goals that I have been working on since childhood, and I also have personal goals that I have started working towards as an adult. Both are goals worth working towards, because I know they are a part of my journey to becoming the best version of myself.”

What’s the biggest lesson you learnt in your 20s/30s?

Kathryn Spencer, assistant vice-president, customer experience, Prime Sports Jamaica Limited:

“Change is constant, and growth is a continuous process. Being afraid to step outside of your comfort zone will only hinder your true potential and minimise the unexpected opportunities that await you. Obstacles along the way are meant to challenge you and keep you on your toes. I personally still struggle with this, even today. The frustration of a setback can feel like the world is coming to an end; however, being patient, and trusting the process, is key.”

Name a woman you most admire and why?

Sasha Warner Campbell, brand manager, domestic and export, J. Wray & Nephew White Overproof Rum, Charley’s JB Rum and Skyy Vodka:

“It may seem a bit cliché; however, the woman I most admire and emulate is my mother, Jacqueline Williamson-Davis. Her strength, grace, diction, and poise are just a few of the traits I admire most about her. These traits have served her well in the face of many challenges throughout her life, both personal and professional. She is now retired after 36 years of teaching at the high-school level. I have seen her continue to rise to the occasion and not allow anyone else to chart her course. My mother has been, and continues to be, my inspiration, rock, supporter, and challenger. She does not allow me to settle, and continues to challenge me to be greater than I am. As she would say, we started life together, and I must be the better version of her in all facets of my life. Big shoes to fill!”