I just finished, “I Am Debra Lee” by Debra Lee. What a gem of a story and an example of a good memoir! What a brave, brilliant woman, so brutally honest about her fears and coping mechanisms she relied on to thrive in the corporate workplace.
The CEO of BET
Debra’s story about her rise to CEO of BET (Black Entertainment Television) and its toll on her life and marriage is devastating. To be not only a woman—but a black woman—climbing the corporate ladder, and the misogyny she endured, is heartwrenching.
At the same time, her power used for (not over) others and the joy she experienced point toward women’s innate strengths. How we truly are the backbone of thriving business.
The healing power of storytelling
I was moved when two-thirds of the way through, for the first time in her life, she fesses up about her affair with her boss, his abuse, and how she shoved her feelings under the rug to gain her CEO title.
And with a vision and passion to help the Black community, she shows just what women must endure to gain a place at the corporate table.
Still, all throughout I wondered about her two children living in a household where both parents’ careers come first.
Key takeaway:
Debra reveals how women take on career challenges only after they’ve gained positive experiences (I.e., proof of their worthiness) whereas men just “seize the opportunity.” (No proof necessary).
Wow. What a deep truth for women to ponder.
Debra’s self-forgiveness concerning choices she made that didn’t support her deepest well-being invited me to do the same.
As she revealed herself, I found self-compassion regarding my own foibles. Here’s another great reminder of the importance of writing a memoir: they’re beneficial for both the author and the reader.
Are you ready to write your life story?
Let me help you bring out the best of yourself, and also your business, through a fulfilling exploration process. Together, we’ll write a memoir worthy of representing all you have seen and become while fulfilling your unique life purpose.
