Create and Cultivate claims that it is a conference series and online platform for female entrepreneurs in the digital space. To me, it is so much more than that! It empowers women to take charge of their careers at any age. It is an uplifting and motivating experience chalk full of female empowerment.

Do you need to be an entrepreneur to attend? No. Do you need to be a blogger? Nope.

You do need to be interested in furthering yourself and your career. Through panels, mentors and keynote speakers, Create and Cultivate is overwhelmingly inspiring. From jewelry designers to app creators, the conference gives you access to advice from numerous girl bosses who are killing the game.

Anyone can get something out of this fun and trendy conference. Whether you are looking for ways to grow in your current position, or you want a career change, CC can help no matter what your field of work is.

Build a Brand…

… around yourself. During a panel about building a personal brand with popular influencers like Haylie Duff from Real Girl’s Kitchen and Lauren Scruggs, I realized defining or “branding” yourself in your career is an important step. Who are you and what are you about? If you can’t answer this simple question, then take the time to think about it. You have to know where you are at to know where you are going.

Have a Mission

From the Danielle DuBoise the co-found of Sakara Life to Stephanie Mark of The Coveteur, the buzzword of the day was "mission."

Starting a business or taking a job (that you ultimately want to be passionate about) should never be about making money. If you start with a mission in mind and make that carry your drive, it will fuel your career. Soul Cycle co-founders Julie Rice and Elizabeth Cutler told the crowd that their mission has always been simple: "to put joy and empowerment into their riders lives."

Be on a mission to better the world around you. Some how, some way.

Be Patient

NOTHING happens over night. The women on stage were inspiring, but also the result of late, wee-morning hours, tears of exhaustion, missteps, hustle, and sacrifice. Vincent Van Gogh once said, “Great things are done by series of small thing brought together.” Every situation, set back or new job is a building block to where you want to be.

Emily Schuman from Cupcakes and Cashmere said it well, “have patience. I’m sitting up here talking about all of these things I’ve done, but it’s taken a really long time. Have determination and patience and believe in yourself.”

There’s Never a Right Time

Waiting for the perfect day to come along to take a risk? Never going to happen.

There will never be a right time to take a chance. Thinking about a career change? Moving to a new city? Pursuing a new venture? If you’re waiting for lightning to strike, the stars to align, or enough money in the bank, there’s a good chance you’re going to miss your shot. There is someone right now taking that risk. If it is in your heart, just do it.

Soul Cycle boss Julie Rice put it clear as day: “Whatever you’re doing now, I actually only think there is one skill you need, and that’s making shit happen.”

Create & Cultivate is announcing their next conference city soon! If you ever get the chance to attend, do not hesitate! It is totally worth it.

Always, Maddi B.