My April Journal: Life Updates

In this month’s journal, I want to talk about something that many of us struggle with: failure. 

As ambitious women, we pour our hearts and souls into our work, and when something doesn’t go according to plan, it can be incredibly disheartening. But here’s the thing: failure is not the end. In fact, it can be an opportunity to learn and grow, and that’s what I want to focus on today: failing forward.

Let me give you an example. Recently, I launched a plus-size fashion collection that I was really proud of. Unfortunately, the collection didn’t meet the order minimums I set to move forward in a sustainable way and I was left feeling embarrassed and disappointed. It feels awful to fail publicly. Sending an email to my customers telling them that we weren’t moving forward and refunds were being processed was REALLY hard. But you dolls sent me so many kind words of encouragement, which lifted my spirits and helped me to see things in a new light.

So, instead of giving up or dwelling on the negative, I chose to fail forward.

What does “Fail Forward” Mean?

To fail forward means to learn from your failures, use that knowledge to improve, and keep moving forward towards your goals. It involves reframing failure as an opportunity for growth and using setbacks as a springboard for success.

To me, failing forward means taking a step back, reflecting on what went wrong, and using that information to make better choices moving forward. My mission is to spread my “Don’t Wait on your Weight” message through products, services and productions. In the case of my fashion collection, I realized that there wasn’t as much demand for each piece as I had hoped. But instead of throwing in the towel, I’m paying attention to where there is momentum and high demand for my business and my message.

For example, right now my Cocoa by CeCe Self Love Scrub is getting amazing reviews.

I’ve also been able to teach body positivity to young girls and give back through Cocoa by Cece and the Brooklyn Nets, which has been a dream come true.

Additionally, my curve method plus-size fitness classes keep selling out, which tells me that there is a real need for body-positive fitness options. By focusing on what’s working and letting go of what’s not, I’m able to move my business forward in a positive direction.

What I’m trying to say is, even though my fashion collection didn’t work out as planned, I’m choosing to see it as an opportunity to learn and grow. I’m paying attention to where there is momentum in my business and focusing on those areas that are thriving. And most importantly, I’m surrounded by a community of amazing individuals who believe in me and lift me up when I need it most.

So, my sweet, ambitious, driven dolls, if you’re struggling with failure, remember that it’s not the end of the road. Take a deep breath, reflect on what went wrong, and think about how you can use that information to make better choices moving forward. And don’t forget to surround yourself with a supportive community who will lift you up and encourage you when you need it most.

Until next time, keep failing forward, dolls!