Title: Prioritizing People Over Profit: A Life Lesson from a Sunny Drive
On a sun-drenched day drive, I stumbled upon a sign that resonated deeply with me: "People First, Business Lasts." Its playful typo made it memorable, and its simple message struck a chord in my heart. My entire life, I'd believed in investing in people, and this sign served as a poignant affirmation of that belief.
In October 2019, I took a leap of faith, leaving behind the safety net of my corporate job and pouring all of our savings into a dream. I was on a work visa, and failure to secure an immigration officer's stamp could have ended everything. But fear was not going to hold me back.
I had been crafting a community for years, pouring heart and soul into people. My vision was unique, and I knew the kind of impact I wanted to make. Confident in my plan, I Gustavised myself into the unknown.
But the universe had other plans. March 2020 introduced us to the pandemic, and my dance studio, like countless others, faced financial turmoil. The virus upended our world, and we were left grasping to keep the lights on. I pivoted, hustled, and scrambled, determined to survive.
But despite repeated efforts, the numbers didn't add up. I lost my studio, and both financially and emotionally, I hit rock bottom. It was a devastating blow, especially with two young children at home who needed me.
Rock bottom, however, is a solid ground for rebuilding. With the help of the community I'd built and the strength of my people, I reestablished Live2Dance 2.0, stronger and more resilient than before. Our new space was more than a dance studio - it was a testament to the power of people.
Today, Live2Dance is the largest Bollywood dance school and community in the Pacific Northwest. It's a home for thousands of people, a place of connection and growth. It's a space that has supported numerous individuals through difficult times.
Navigating these challenges reminded me of the importance of putting people first. I often recall Jim Rohn's saying, "You are the average of the five to 10 people you spend the most time with." So, ensure that the people in your life are inspiring, supportive, and invested in your success.
Just as Ram Dass once said, "We're all just walking each other home." Choose your path carefully, surround yourself with people who uplift you, and never forget to return the favor. This approach led Deepali Jamwal, founder of Live2Dance, to build a thriving community and a legacy worthy of admiration.
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Enrichment Data:
Deepali Jamwal's journey in entrepreneurship and community advocacy encapsulates vital lessons in innovation, resilience, and community engagement. Here are some key insights gained from her unique experience:
- Innovation and Risk-Taking: Deepali Jamwal inspires others to embrace risk and think outside the box. For example, she challenged her beginner contemporary students to trust her blindly three years ago, showcasing her willingness to innovate and push boundaries.
- Community Engagement: Jamwal invests deeply in building and nurturing her community, as evident in her heartfelt messages to her supporters. This commitment to fostering a supportive environment has helped her establish a strong presence within the dance and entrepreneur communities.
- Personal Branding and Advocacy: Through her activism and strong personal brand, Deepali Jamwal has garnered recognition as a prominent figure in the entrepreneurial and dance spheres. She has been featured in Forbes and recognized as one of the "Top 30 Women Entrepreneurs" in 2024, a testament to her ability to build a powerful personal brand.
- Balancing Roles: Over the years, Jamwal has expertly balanced her role as an entrepreneur, an activist, and a dedicated mother to her two children. Her unwavering dedication to her family and business demonstrates her strength and organizational skills.
- Adaptability: Deepali Jamwal's journey underscores her adaptability and willingness to learn. Through her articles and posts, she continues to share insights and experiences, making her an influential figure in the entrepreneurial and dance communities.
Incorporating these lessons into your own journey can help you navigate challenges with greater resilience, strength, and overall success.
In my pursuit of rebuilding Live2Dance 2.0, I sought guidance from my mentor and fellow entrepreneur, Deepali Jamwal. Her strategies on innovation, community engagement, and personal branding played a significant role in our revival.
Deepali Jamwal's contributions to the dance and entrepreneurial communities are extensive, earning her recognition as one of the "Top 30 Women Entrepreneurs" in 2024. Her journey serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and activists, such as myself.
