Give us a brief bio or background about yourself. Are you originally from the Lake Houston area? Are you a wife or mother?
Who is Tamara Lexow? The short answer is this: I am a Wife, Mom, Life Coach, Peer Counselor, Writer, Speaker, Lover of red lipstick, red wine, and all the words Jesus said. The longer answer is that I’m a woman who delights in helping people learn to be who God created them to be. This might make you think I know for certain who God created me to be. The truth is, I’m a transformation in progress myself. I write, speak, and peer counsel by using what God has done for me, taught me, and shown me in my life. And it’s crazy how much he’s shown me and the lessons I’m continuing to learn. Some lessons have come the easy way, and some lessons have come by much harder means.
Did you always know that you’d be in your current industry? Tell us your story of how you arrived at your current success.
Not at all! Once upon a time, I went to cosmetology school and specialized in makeup and makeovers. I joined the Mary Kay company, and love showing women how to bring out the beauty and take care of the skin God has given. Sometimes I work as a make-up artist for the models of Jen Pisani Photography. The owner and photographer, Jen, and I have been friends for what feels like forever, although it’s only been since our oldest girls were in kindergarten. We both have a passion for finding, capturing, and celebrating the beauty of God’s Kingdom. But that’s not even my main gig!!!
I lost my mom to suicide on April 15, 1997. I’m always wrestling, learning, coping, and growing from that. This is but one of the places where I found the passion to help others work through their heartaches. God never wastes a tear; of this, I can be sure. I know my life calling is connecting survivors of trauma, abuse, and heartache to the healing power of Christ.
Most of my work is done through story telling. Jesus used story telling to help people understand God’s love. So I tell stories about my life, about God’s grace, and about healing love. I work with Hopeful Hearts Ministry to help bring hope to survivors of trauma and abuse. I want to add beauty to every story I tell, so others will learn that their inner sparkle is reflecting the love of Jesus.
Many of us have worked either for another business at some point in our professional careers. How do you go from being an employee to a business owner?
Working for others is a great way to learn the ropes of whatever field you’re in. You learn what methods work for you and which ones don’t. You learn to take things that work for others and make it your own. One of the things I have learned in the last twenty-two years is that it’s important to surround yourself with people with the same vision, mission, and goals as you. Going out on your own can be scary, but starting your own business or non-profit doesn’t have to be lonely. Keep reaching out to people who are like-minded. Pick their brain, read what they’re putting out to the world, and ask lots of questions. We always have to be willing to humble ourselves, and we always have to be willing to learn new things. Success doesn’t last for anyone who thinks they have all the answers.
A healthy work/life balance is important. What’s your take on it?
I see so many women posting, almost bragging, about how busy they are all the time. I’ve known women who find their value in never slowing down. That’s not for me!
I frequently remind myself that God, the creator of the universe, took a day off. Jesus traveled constantly during his 3-year mission on earth, teaching crowds, healing the sick, turning water to wine… and Jesus also took naps!
All the work in the world is for nothing if you can’t take time to enjoy your family, friends, and a glass of wine.
How long have you been in business and where are you located? Does your business serve the Lake Houston area and/or online?
I have been speaking locally and nationally for over twenty years. I have led small groups for Mom’s Groups and led Women’s Retreats. I write on my website, www.TamaraLexow.com. Hopeful Hearts Ministry, which serves survivors of trauma and abuse nation-wide, was founded by Shannon Carr in Kingwood ten years ago. We offer peer support and free programs to those in need.
What was your drive to become a business owner?
I don’t know that I’ve had a drive to own a business, but instead to be a beacon of light to those in need. I want to be a hand to the woman who feels like she’s grasping for hope. I want to offer words of comfort to the wounded woman. I want to take all the love Jesus has given me and pour it out on those who feel unloved.
What is most crucial to you in a business?
Compassion, Honesty, and a Desire to Help Others
How did your areas of improvement drive you to find your strengths?
I was a talkative child; always in trouble for talking in class. I had a terrible fear of speaking in front of crowds, however, and was always worried about being liked. God has been refining me for many years, leading me to seek approval from Him first. That has really helped my people-pleasing sickness and led me to have no fear of speaking to crowds.
That talkative little girl also had to learn how to listen. Most people feel really good about jumping in and telling others how to solve problems or fix what is wrong in the lives of others. The problem comes when we don’t stop to listen to other people’s needs. I’ve learned to sit still, be present when someone shares their heart, and truly hear what they have to say.
Has networking been an asset to developing your business? and How?
Someone recently told me that networking is one letter away from not working. I imagine that could be true for some, but I find networking is a great way to meet new friends, get the word out about what I do, and learn about other new businesses. I love being able to pass along the name of someone new I have met, who might have the exact solution to a need of someone else.
Other than a double shot espresso, what method or tools do you use or attribute to your increase business productivity?
I was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult. I am constantly researching new methods or tools to help me overcome being distracted. I’m also learning to lean into the ways my brain functions. I’m trying to unlearn the idea that ADHD is a curse, but instead, see it as a blessing. It makes me creative, curious, and passionate. That being said, I do function better and more productively when I have short, specific lists.
What digital marketing platforms have you utilize and how did it make your company more profitable?
Hubspot is great for keeping track of prospects and clients. Anything to help me stay organized is incredibly valuable to me!
You’ve done great things professionally to get you where you are today! What are some of your professional achievements?
I have been honored and blessed to speak to women’s groups around the country. When a group reaches out that doesn’t have a direct connection of a friend or family member, I am always humbled and grateful.
Knowing what you know now as an entrepreneur, what would you tell your younger self?
Never be afraid to ask questions. The only dumb question is the one you don’t ask.
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