RTDM: Mary Smith
Mary Smith
Owner and Creative Badass ;)
Charlotte, NC
We want to get to know you! Briefly tell us about yourself: Where you came from, where you've been and how you live your dream.
My name is Mary, and I’m the owner of For the Love of Technology. I’m a Charlotte-area technology and social media consultant. I help small business owners and community organizations optimize their social media presence, promote events (virtual and in-person), and utilize time-saving and productivity-boosting digital tools. Drawing on 20+ years experience as an educator and seasoned event planner, I utilize my unique skill set to create a relaxed, yet focused, learning atmosphere for my clients. I’m a self-proclaimed organizational aficionado, Oxford comma enthusiast, and fan of all things Star Wars. I live in Charlotte with my family.
How do you define success and how do you stay motivated to keep working toward it?
My definition of success has evolved as I’ve gotten older...today’s version is much more fluid and adaptable! Firstly, without setting SMART goals, I’ve found that most of my attempts to succeed will fail. Now I measure success with indicators such as - how well was I able to adapt? - was I able to pivot when unforeseen variables (for example: a global pandemic) presented themselves? - when the end was in sight, was I able to dig deeper to finish the race? Learning how to focus on the big picture (and not get so caught up in the small details!) has helped me redefine success in a much more healthy way. Posting my goals everywhere - and I mean everywhere - is one strategy that I found to be very effective, as well! Seeing what I’m working towards helps keep me motivated. I’m also a self-proclaimed inspirational quote junkie...I have Pinterest boards, Post-it notes, journals, and Trello cards full of them! They often provide me a much-needed boost right when I need it.
What’s been your biggest challenge, perceived failure or fear and how did you overcome it?
When my fear of failure teams up with my perfectionist tendencies, I can often feel overwhelmed and/or stalled in a project. I’ve learned to tell those nagging voices in my head that there is no room for them there. Sometimes it means taking a deep breath, counting to five, and then just jumping in. Move over Harriet (yep, that’s my fear of failure’s gremlin name), we have goals to achieve!
What’s the best advice you’d give to a younger you?
Don’t ever let fear of failure or your insecurities stop you from chasing your dreams. Surround yourself with people who feel like sunshine.
Share a book, quote and/or idea that's impacted you the most:
Get action! - Teddy Roosevelt It’s beautiful to be in on the creation of something, see it used, and then walk away and smile at it. -Ladybird Johnson Esther 4:14 Perhaps you were born for such a moment as this? Small steps, every day, lead to big results. Progress > perfection! Books: Essentialism Atomic Habits Miracle Morning
What are you most proud of? Go ahead, boast a little!
I won the science fair in 8th grade...does that count? 🤪 To be honest, I’m most proud of raising a daughter who is fiercely independent, unique, and ready to change the world. (I need to remind myself of those qualities when she’s rolling her eyes or sighing at me! #teenager)
What is something surprising about you?
I was a competitive figure skater for many years.
What is your favorite vice/guilty pleasure/strange habit? Come on now, we all have them!
When I’m stressed or anxious, I like to organize. Closets, drawers, garages...anything really!
Connect with Mary
Email: Mary@fortheloveoftechnology.com
Website: www.fortheloveoftechnology.com
FB: fortheloveoftechnology
