390
390 is the number of emails that I saved in regards to my career search for Human Resources opportunities. That number does not include the number of "talks", I had with people inside and outside of the industry, that doesn't include the number of interviews I had, that does not include the countless times I revised my resume and cover letter, that doesn't include the number of tears cried wondering when my opportunity would come, that number does not include unanswered messages sent to professionals or the many networking events. That number includes the one special company that hired me as a Talent Acquisition Intern, a great Human Resources Director, Human Resources Manager and Recruiter, that company confirmed my "WHY."
That number includes:
the many people who answered my messages
the Sorority sister who answered my HR question text messages, revitalized my resume and helped me prepare for interviews
my mentors giving me advice along the way
my Mr. Knox and mom keeping me prayerful
the one young lady who walked up to me introducing herself to me on the campus on Paul Quinn College because she needed to introduce herself to me after hearing my name around campus and seeing my face not knowing that I was coming on campus to be fulfilled after feeling like the world had rejected me
the one friend that thought I was good enough for a position and encouraged me to apply
which lead to the one company that thought I was also good enough, which lead to me landing my first full-time Human Resources job opportunity.
I fell at least 390 times and I got 391.. my formula was 9-3 =6, 6+1 = 7, 7 is the number of completion. So I would encourage you not to get caught up in the number of times you fall, but the number of times you get back up. Do not get caught up in the number of rejections, the rejections are apart of the process, the process prepares you and equips you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence you need to fulfill your purpose. This process reminded me that I was created, covered, carried and crowned and it reminded me of Psalm 23:
1 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters
3 he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.
4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley,[a] I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
6 Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.