It all began in 2016, when, shortly, it felt like I had only an end to defend. I was being released from the very thing I ran to for a release: the military. There were times when I thought, “I’d be able to retire,” and then focus on my passion. In saying that, I realized I’d been thinking wrong all along. I was to reverse that statement and have it read, “I’d be able to focus on my passion and then retire from it.” The moment it clicked, I was kicked … out.
I’d max out the physical fitness test nearly every time, and because strength isn’t tested with the body fat portion of the test, I failed it. I then became determined to make fitness my main priority. In an effort to meet my body fat composition requirements, I started exercising three times a day: an hour before my physical training sessions, during them, and at lunchtime. The efforts to meet the challenge fell short; the requirements were unmatched. I struggled with the measurements around my hips. To safeguard my military career, I resorted to outdoor heat treatment, which only provided a temporary solution.
After serving 11 years in the US Army, I was forced out not by choice but by my hips’ rebellion. It was now time to transcend what felt like years of tucked-in talent. This led me to create Queen of All Thingz, a reflection of what it represents: a Queen. I was in control of my destiny, decisions, and choices about everything related to my life.
In 2020, the brand was born. It has been a journey to get my business off the ground. Over the years, I spent thousands of dollars trying various methods without a clear direction, following advice from individuals who lacked the insight I needed. This resulted in avoidable losses that could have been mitigated with better planning. I was able to pivot from multiple setbacks based on the lessons learned in resilience training in the military; after taking the class so much, the ability to recover from setbacks while staying focused became ingrained in my brain. I made fitness the focus, knowing I had to begin within myself. I couldn’t build a brand where the body did not belong.
Another key turning point was establishing a strong support system that shared and understood the vision. When I needed to ease off, they were there to reinforce my purpose. Lastly, the most impactful shift was inspired by my parental figure during my service. She consistently saw hope when I saw obstacles, serving as my guiding light. Ms. Clara played a significant role in this transformation.I gave birth to a brand that meant more than a simple rhyme; it became a routine. Day in and day out, I focused on avenues to yield on and boulevards to park on. I had to play Monopoly with my mission. I knew there was no “get out of jail” card; it was get out and prevail.
Today, we commemorate the 4-year anniversary of Queen of All Thingz’ business journey. It all started with a single tri-color set of resistance bands and has now evolved into a diverse collection of intricately designed matching sets.
