Words of Wisdom is a monthly interview on the Metro EDGE blog with an executive who is making an impact in the Sacramento community. Think of these interviews as a mini Executive Insight where you will receive valuable career advice that will help you grow as a young professional! This month's interview is with Roshaun Davis, CEO & Founder at Unseen Heroes. Roshaun’s rare talent for brand-building, strategic focus and program implementation has been recognized by countless clients in the public and private sector, from local backyards and neighborhoods all the way to the national level. Read Roshaun’s interview below to learn more about him and his advice to young professionals everywhere.
What are three things you wish you’d known as you embarked on your career?
Three things I wish I would’ve known as I embarked on my career are:
- The fact that I have always been on a non-traditional path of entrepreneurship.
- That I didn't have to search for success outside of myself.
- Failures are pieces of a larger puzzle, and everything that doesn’t work out still has its place on your journey.
Did you have a mentor? If so, what was the most important piece of advice they gave you?
I've had a lot of mentors in my life. Some have come in the traditional sense while others have come in a non-traditional format such as books, TV shows, and random conversations. One of the most important pieces of advice that I've gotten was to be still. Some of the most challenging things that I've been through, where everything seemed to be falling apart, I am reminded of that advice which allows me to center myself and be still. It is in that stillness, that I realize how much of an effect I have on the outcome of those situations.
How did/do you handle work/life balance?
It's tricky. Sometimes I feel like I do it well, other times not so well. I used to believe that making a lifestyle out of the two made for better balance, however the pandemic allowed me to pause and gain clarity around that idea. If I am to give advice on the topic, I would say figure out what type of person you are. Are you someone who lives to work, or one who works to live? From there, you can build a foundation for a holistic approach that is designed perfectly for you.
Do you have any suggestions of books, articles, websites, podcasts, etc. that might help a young professional?
During the pandemic, I started an Instagram page @thespiritualhomie where I share messages, conversations, and words of advice that have come to help over 15,000 people daily. Anyone seeking enlightenment on their journey should definitely connect with me there.
How important is it to be involved in organizations outside of work (church, networking, philanthropy, community-based, alumni, athletics, etc.)? Why?
Being connected to the community is very important. It is one of the surefire ways to grow as an individual as well as a collective. There are so many different parts of the community that you can be involved in that will enhance your skill set and network. There is nothing like knowing that you have people that will have your back and push you to be your best self.
What do you love about Sacramento?
What I love most about Sacramento is the community centric vibe that exists here. You can find people from all walks of life, and most are open to collaborating and building relationships. There is access to a lot of different people and a lot of different industries here without having all of the barriers that might exist in larger cities. I always say that Sacramento is small, but mighty.
Is there anything else you’d like to tell the 40 and under business professionals in our region?
Sacramento is the perfect place to collaborate with people in different industries to create changes that can be impactful state wide. We are the capital of one of the largest states in the country, so there are eyes on us all of the time. Keep that in mind when you are moving the needle forward in your field.
To connect with Roshaun, you can reach him on Instagram at @thespiritualhomie.
