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Story & Lesson Highlights with Shar Michele of Southfield

We recently had the chance to connect with Shar Michele and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Shar, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Integrity is extremely important to me. In my opinion if you lack integrity you lack morality. You’ll do whatever to whomever to put your needs first. You’d be willing to lie steal cheat whatever it takes to achieve your own objectives. But when you have integrity you value honesty and act with ethical principals.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Dorothy’s Pearl is a purpose driven luxury accessories brand that empowers women and teen girls to own what makes them unforgettable. We design limited edition handbags, eyewear, and apparel that spark conversation while donating a portion of proceeds to support those battling blood cancers and disorders.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
I would say my sister Kim and my dad always saw the real me. They encouraged me when I didn’t always believe in myself. I don’t think I would be where I am today if it wasn’t for them believing in me.

When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
My only sibling passing has been the most painful thing I’ve ever encountered. It’s been a challenge for not just me but my children and husband. Especially my daughter Syd, the person that designs our bags. Because of this it’s empowered us to use the brand to raise awareness for blood cancers and disorders.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
That’s a good question. I think the public version of me is a bit more reserved than the actual me. I sensor myself a bit more. Not saying I’m completely different but I despise being in front of the camera so my interaction on social media is very brief. Because I’m always nervous on camera. Now when people meet me in person that’s a different story. I’m 100% myself in person.

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What false labels are you still carrying?
One false label that I’ve been carrying is something someone told me about the brand. They told me that the brand wouldn’t be successful because I wasn’t a part of the in crowd. When they told me this it was years ago but it’s always in the back of my head.

Although the brand is growing and doing well it’s still one of those things that I find myself wondering in slow moments. Like are we good enough. Will we ever be a household name etc.

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Image Credits
www.instagram.com/arielleantoinette_makeup

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