As I've begun to reach new growth milestones in my business, I've had this growing realization: Your recognition non-negotiable it is not only important; it is essential. Are you not clear? Well, that's a direct ticket to the City of Unhappiness, which, let me tell you, does your success, present or future, no favors.

It's so easy to let things slide, isn't it? You make excuses for others (and yourself) and turn a blind eye to signs that all is not well because, hey, losing a client sounds like a nightmare, right? Or maybe you're so in awe of what could be that you compromise what is without even realizing it.

These thoughts have been swirling around in my head since I attended the Black Women Power Summit. The stories I heard from these extraordinary women who have faced and overcome massive obstacles to secure their places in positions of power really hit home.

Here are six non-negotiables from me and some of them powerful women we all see that this will help you maintain your success and help you move to the next level.

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1. Immediately have uncomfortable conversations

Let's have unpleasant conversations. I used to avoid them like a pro. But facing them head-on? That's where the magic happens. More often than not, I found that I was missing a piece of the puzzle. Whether they changed my perspective or cleared the air, those conversations always left me feeling lighter, ready to focus on what matters.

2. Wait 24 hours before making emotionally driven decisions

And here's a rule I still live by: If a decision is riding on a wave of emotions, I rest for 24 hours. It's amazing what a little time can do for perspective.

3. Don't accept less than the energy you bring

Accept less than I'm giving? Not any more. This is true for work and life. Leaving from toxic people it sounds obvious, but we've all been there, holding someone close when, deep down, we know they're just bringing drama and draining our energy.

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4. Don't be afraid to ask for things that allow you to come across as your best self

When national talk show host and actress Sherri Shepherd was asked to tour with Babyface, the local glam squad wasn't equipped to style a woman of color. The team couldn't style her wig and the foundation didn't match her skin. Can you imagine having to organize a large-scale event, looking up at the monitor and being distracted because the reflection is not up to your standard?

As women, it is often implied that asking for something more than what is provided is considered “high maintenance.” Do not be afraid ask for what you need to show up as your best self and don't expect anyone to understand your request, as they are not in your path and are not the ones to show up in your shoes.

5. Realize that work-life balance is a lie

I heard Thausandra Brown Duckett, CEO of TIAA, talk about how work-life balance is a lie. Her suggestion is to treat your life like a diversified portfolio. She said work-life balance it is a lie because it never agrees. She suggests living your life as a portfolio of diversity. Write down everything that matters to you and share based on your priorities. Over time, you will succeed in all areas. Don't put all your time or energy into one thing. Remember to give yourself the grace to recalibrate your portfolio as needed.

6. There must be incentives to innovate

And there's a gem I picked up from Thai Randolph, who co-founded HartBeat Productions with Kevin Hart, that has become a mantra for me: She said that in every opportunity, there has to be something entrepreneurial. What it looks like is having the ability to build things, break things, and scale things. There must be a real incentive to innovate.

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Honestly, my non-negotiables aren't groundbreaking, but since I've put them front and center, communicated them to my team, and decided to live by them, the change has been transformative. Thanks to these non-negotiables, my company, Society22 PR, made Inc.'s Fastest Growing Companies list. and we have been able to feed one company culture this is beyond what i dreamed.

So yes, these reflections on my non-negotiables have reshaped my approach to business. It's not just about setting boundaries; it's about creating a space where you, your team and your business can thrive. And let me tell you, the result has been pretty amazing.