Where Influence Meets Purpose: What I Learned from the Women of Influence Luncheon
There are some rooms that remind you exactly who you are—and who you’re becoming. This past Friday, I had the honor of attending Dr. Cheryl Polote-Williamson’s Women of Influence Awards Luncheon, and let me tell you: it wasn’t just an event—it was an experience. A legacy moment.
From the moment I walked into The Statler Dallas, the energy was electric. Elegant, powerful, joyful, affirming. The theme of the day, The Affirmed Woman, came alive in every embrace, every applause break, every tear that fell as stories were shared. In a world where Black women often go unseen or uncelebrated, this space did the exact opposite—it centered us.
“This is a legacy moment for the people and the culture.”
And it was.
Lift As You Climb: The Power of Servant Leadership
One of the biggest takeaways from the luncheon was the reminder that true leadership doesn’t shine alone—it reflects light onto others. Every woman honored wasn’t just leading in her industry—she was uplifting others as she climbed. That’s servant leadership in action.
Seeing a room filled with women who were not only affirmed but solid—in their purpose, their business, their values—was the inspiration I didn’t know I needed. It reminded me that you can be ambitious and generous. Successful and kind. Powerful and grounded.
In a world that often rewards individualism, the Women of Influence reminded us that legacy is built through community.
You Need Your People: Influence is Nothing Without Connection
Let’s be real: we weren’t meant to do life—or business—alone. That’s a truth I keep learning again and again. This event was a loud, beautiful reminder that we need connection. We need people who will speak life into our dreams, hold space for our fears, and remind us that asking for help is not weakness—it’s wisdom.
There’s something sacred about finding your tribe—people who get your vision, challenge your excuses, and cheer you on even when you’re doubting yourself. Vulnerability isn’t a liability; it’s how we build bridges to real, lasting community.
Mind Right, Life Right: The Role of Mindfulness in Personal Growth
Another standout theme from the day? Getting your mind right. Whether it was woven into the speeches or felt through the energy of the room, it was clear that mindset isn’t a side dish—it’s the main course of influence and success.
Okay, slight nerd alert—my Master’s is in Behavioral Science, so I get way too excited about this stuff. But the science is clear: when you train your brain to focus on gratitude, affirmation, and intentional thought patterns, you literally rewire your neural pathways. That’s neuroplasticity in action, and sis, it’s powerful.
Mindfulness helps us slow down long enough to hear our own voice beneath the noise. And daily affirmations? They’re not just trendy—they're tools. Evidence shows that repeating positive self-affirming statements can increase your self-worth, reduce stress, and boost performance in high-stakes environments.
Here are a few affirmations I’ve been using since Friday’s luncheon:
“My influence is rooted in purpose.”
“I lead with grace and clarity.”
“I am worthy of being celebrated—now, not later.”
“I attract community that affirms and elevates me.”
“I can ask for help and still be powerful.”
Say them out loud. Write them down. Stick them on your mirror. Repetition creates belief—and belief shapes behavior.
Legacy Is Now
What I witnessed last Friday wasn’t just an award ceremony—it was a glimpse of what’s possible when Black women are seen, honored, and supported. It was a masterclass in alignment. These women weren’t just chasing titles—they were walking in purpose, building businesses, and changing lives. Together.
I left full—not just from the beautifully plated lunch, but from the reminder that influence means nothing if it’s not tied to something deeper. To legacy. To love. To lifting others as we rise.
So here’s my question to you:
How are you making space for affirmation in your own life—mentally, emotionally, and communally?
Because you don’t need a stage or spotlight to start living like the woman you’re becoming. You just need to decide she’s already here.
You’re already her.
Stay affirmed, Taylor
Check out my video of the day below!