Reflecting on Defeat: Betty Collins Shares Insights from Running for Office

Inspiring Women with Betty Collins

The value of surrounding oneself with a strong support system. Who are the key people in your support system and how have they helped you achieve your goals?”

I discuss the profound lessons I learned from running for city council and what it means to lose an election. My reflections are not just about politics but about the broader themes of personal growth, resilience, and the importance of building a strong support system.

Timing and Flexibility: Embracing the Unexpected

One of the primary lessons Betty emphasizes is the crucial role of timing and flexibility. In both life and business, plans don’t always go as expected.

Building a Strong Support System

I cannot overstate the significance of surrounding oneself with a capable team and trusted advisors. Running a campaign, much like running a business, requires the collaboration and expertise of many.

Personal Branding and Self-Promotion

In today’s competitive environment, it’s essential to clearly articulate your value and distinctiveness. I share my experience of merging my smaller business into a larger one, highlighting how crucial it was to brand herself effectively.

Quality Over Quantity: Meaningful Interactions

My husband played a pivotal role as her coach and motivator, teaching me the importance of engaging people genuinely.

Strategy and Execution: Beyond Hard Work

One of the biggest realizations for me was that hard work alone isn’t enough. Strategy and execution play a critical role in achieving success. Outworking and outspending competitors are factors that can make a considerable difference, underscoring the need for sufficient resources and strategic planning.

Humility and Influence

My run for office was a humbling experience, revealing the nuances of influence within a larger community. It taught me the importance of expanding one’s network and understanding different environments.

Moving Forward with Wisdom and Joy

I would advise appreciating lessons learned and moving forward with optimism. Life’s opportunities often arise from setbacks, and it’s essential to enjoy the journey while keeping sight of long-term goals.

Key Moments

00:00 Reflecting on loss, lessons learned for future.

06:06 Campaign success: Knowing your why, articulating message.

06:50 Presidential record year, articulate message with emotion.

10:07 Respect others, stay true, adapt to growth.

16:34 Unexpected victory brings relief, despite initial fears.

18:45 Accepting timing and purpose after experiencing loss.

21:12 Election timing, issues, and party affiliation impact.

24:35 Supporters and help came from unexpected places.

27:22 Articulate branding essential for career and business success.

33:02 Reflecting on a year-long neighborhood project.

34:52 Pursuit brings confidence, new perspectives, and joy.

38:01 Easily lose track of time, pace yourself.

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Hosted by Betty Collins, CPA, and Director at Brady Ware and Company. Betty also serves as the Committee Chair for Empowering Women, and Director of the Brady Ware Women’s Initiative.

Each episode is presented by Brady Ware and Company, committed to empowering women to go their distance in the workplace and at home.

For more information, Brady Ware and Company.

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