Have you heard about The LOVE Network? Well if you haven't you're in for a special treat. The acronym stands for Living Out Visions Eternally. It's a site where I love to go to connect with other members for advice or just to chat regarding health, wellness, finances, etc. It's certainly not like any other networking site that I have been on, there is a vibe of genuine concern and care among these ladies. I've had the priviledge and honor of getting to know Ms. Shivawn Mitchell, creator of the site. She has created an empowering and inspirational site for women to connect beyond business and entertainment, whose motto is "Don't just have a vision, but live it." I am proud and honored to be apart of the Circle of LOVE. Read our interview below and see why this network is no ordinary network!
Why were you motivated to create the Love Network?
I saw a need for women to have support in every area of their lives. Most networks “communities” focus only on one aspect of life (business or entertainment). But I know we need help in more than just those few areas. I wanted my network to become a wellness center for women. A place where you could get feedback about your business but also get some tips on working out or how to maintain your finances. There is a need for women to get themselves in order so they can turn around and inspire the next generation not just to have a vision but to live it out loud.
What is the mission and goals for the network?
L.o.v.e. will start a movement in women that helps them reshape their beliefs about themselves, their purpose and community. We will utilize the media, forums, networking events, conferences, blogs and other resources to link women to opportunities to promote growth within their lives, business and community. We will also establish a presence with young ladies in order to ensure that a generation isn’t being left behind.
Most women have a burning desire to live their dreams but we usually get stopped somewhere along the way because life happens. We start to focus on not having enough money, children, our appearance and the list can go on. Slowly your dreams and purpose get lost somewhere in the background. It is my goal for every lady that I come in contact with that we obtain balance in these 7 areas. I call them my 7 keys to L.o.v.e.
What makes your site more appealing to women and different from other networking sites?
I don’t believe anything physically on the network makes my site more appealing. I believe what makes “L.o.v.e.” appealing is my heart for women. Once anyone connects with me and the Circle of L.o.v.e. Leaders I have chosen to work with me they know our intent is to draw women in and help change their lives for the better while impacting young ladies and our community at the same time.
Who or what inspires you to keep going when the road ahead is not clear?
My brother inspires me to keep pushing. He’s probably the best silent cheerleader I have. He doesn’t say much but when he does its very meaningful. He always tells me that I can do anything that I desire and that I shouldn’t give up when the tough moments arrive, instead I should keep my eye on the people I am suppose to inspire in life. I think that’s pretty great coming from a 21 year old J
What has been the most rewarding aspect of introducing new members to LOVE and how does that factor into your future plans for the network?
I absolutely L.o.v.e. how the women support each other in their personal and business endeavors. These women don’t know each other from Adam but they support each other through networking, encouragement, prayer, laughter and the list goes on. That makes me smile everytime I think about it. It shows that women can work with each other.
My future plans for the network are to focus more on the women and not the on-line network. I would like to build “chapters” globally so we can make more of an impact in our community and with our mentees (Designing Diamond Girls). I’m starting to see the need of more support for each other beyond the internet and that is my main focus for this year.
In addition we are adding a new site for “L.o.v.e.” http://lovemovement.lefora.com/ check us out starting February 1, 2011. (Make sure you go check it out tomorrow!)
What tips and advice would you give to aspiring females in pursuing their goals and dreams?
Pray for clarity and direction everyday! Have a plan. Write it out so you can see it on paper. Read up on your craft as much as possible. Never think that you have arrived and you know it all be willing to learn from those who are already where you want to be. Finally don’t let yourself or people stop you from pursuing your dreams.
In relation to my blog Be Candy Coated, what is a “Candy-Coated” woman to you?
A candy-coated woman is someone who handles anything that life throws her. She inspires others to stand up for what they believe in. Everything she touches she leaves behind her own signature candy-coated color. A candy-coated woman is defiantly in a class of her own.
Make sure you check out The LOVE Network at www.lovemovenetwork.com , connect with Shivawn on twitter @LadyShiv and also check out her blog that's always full of great features and tips www.livinglovemag.com
