BOSS Spotlight: Anita Washington "Founder of That Anita Live"

Talk Show Host, Podcaster, and Speaker Anita Washington, M.Ed, MBA, CEO and Founder of That Anita Live LLC provides emotional healing to help women pivot their lives, rise above the glass ceiling and feel free to live true to their own personality, spirit and character. 

1.    What were some obstacles that you faced in the beginning process of starting your business or career? 
My biggest obstacle was clarity versus purpose. It was very important to me to align my next move with God's purpose for my life. Even though others were trying to rush me into areas they knew I could do and do very well, I waited until I was sure the path I chose aligned with God's purpose for this season in my life. 

The next obstacle would be balancing cash flow. I tend to spend on the level of my dream, not the lower level where I'm starting. Sometimes the ugly poster or ad has to be good enough if that's all there is in the budget.

2.    What inspired you to break into your particular industry?
My current industry is a second career for me. My first career was counseling, so you could say I'm returning to my first love. I chose it initially because I enjoy being the pivotal point in a person's life, the point where change happens for the better. 

3.    How do you balance your personal and professional life or have you been able to find a balance?
Most people strive for balance on a daily or weekly basis. What works best for me is balancing on a seasonal or annual basis. When I have an objective, I go hard for mine. I'll forego everything but the tasks and actions that lead me to obtaining my objective. I can only relax and participate in other things after I've won.  

4.    What is an inspirational quote that you live by?
Isaiah 41:10 (RSVCE)

"fear not, for I am with you, 
be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you,I will uphold you with my victorious right hand."  

5.    Who were some influential people or mentors that helped or encouraged you along the way?

My 10th grade Biology teacher, which is my Aunt Dee. She always kept me after class and gave me separate advice from what had been said to the rest of the class. One time she told me, "...it's ok to give back and help people but you need to keep your eyes on somebody that is already where you're trying to go so that when you get there you know how to be"

My undergrad professor Dr. Paschal who told me, "Washington you're cut from a different cloth. You're smart! You need to work up to your potential and be true to yourself". 

My grad school professor Dr. Samuel L. Creighton who told me, "Anita people don't treat you like your stupid, you treat people like they're smart".  

6.    What are your “must-haves” to keep your career or business going strong?
My cell phones, social media and my Bible. 

7. What is your definition of a BOSS? 
A #BOSS is someone humble enough to accept help from those ahead of them but self-assured enough to be a help to someone behind them. Even if the student one day becomes the teacher. 

To find out more on Anita, visit her at:

Website: https://thatanitalive.com/
Twitter: @thatanitalive