LOVE & LIGHT SERIES: Horace Shares

TDR Collage Horace.png

Let The Healing Continue

Horace Lovett

In light of the recent events impacting our nation, what advice would you give to people in order to help them navigate the uncertainty? Also, Please share one or two available resources that can help people right now?

I would advise people to stay well informed of developments during this time of uncertainty. This means heeding the guidance of reliable entities such as the CDC and WHO as you safely and responsibly navigate the dynamics of this pandemic. Be hopeful about us overcoming our current plight. 

While we anticipate this situation will worsen before it becomes manageable, research suggests with adaptations, we will be able to get through it. 

I would also suggest people exercise greater faith. Be intentional about your prayers. Embody the tenets of your belief system. There’s healing power in praying for others. There’s divinity in showing general concern and providing resources to those in need. 

Lastly, I recommend people be a little selfish with this time. Make time to do those things you’ve neglected to do for yourself because life had gotten in the way. Cultivate a stronger bond with friends & family members. Pick up the phone and call them! Read that book you bought a year ago. Go meditate. Rediscover old music or movies you loved. Plant flowers. Or simply be still long enough to understand how grateful you are to still be alive; and how grateful you are for another chance to enjoy the simple things you’ve unknowingly taken for granted. 


What is your personal mission in life?

My personal mission in life is to help people see and experience things from different perspectives - influencing them to push limits and take risks to reach their full potential. Many people never actualize their dreams because they are afraid to go against the grain, be different or question norms. Imploring the need to view challenges or barriers from a growth mindset will help them discover or understand their true purpose in life. When I dialogue with people dismayed by their life’s circumstances or deferred dreams, I try to offer a different perspective without judgment. I’ve learned that one conversation or understanding ear can reignite a person’s hope and desire to become their best self. That’s my mission. That’s my passion. 

What is the one of the biggest challenges you have overcome?

One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced regarding my mission is the resistance or inability of some people to “see the bigger picture” or think unconventionally. Many of us have beliefs and understanding of life that was forced upon us by our families, religious organizations, or general socialization; we’ve never thought to investigate or second-guess the validity or reasonableness of those beliefs. Our mindsets are based on other people’s thoughts, experiences, or personal agendas.

What one action helped you overcome your challenge?

I’ve learned to anticipate helping people, who are open to challenge constructs, to see arrested by the views or opinions of others. I follow-up that conversation with words or guidance that inspires them to begin thinking critically and introspectively about their beliefs. I see that as my mission, and I never deter from that calling - even when it’s not received. I know we’re all on a journey to figure “it” out.

What is your definition of leadership?

Leadership is a responsibility bestowed upon individuals from a higher being. Being an impactful leader requires a person to understand the mission and have a clear vision for accomplishing organizational goals. A leader helps an organization devise a plan and empowers those with the organization to execute. During the execution of the plan, the leader guides the work, assesses progress, and steers a team towards success. 

What advice would you give to someone who is ashamed to share their story?

My advice for anyone ashamed to share their story would be to own your SHAME. Shame is personal. You have to figure out what is at the root of your shame and work to reconcile the differences between who you present as and who you ”REALLY” are as a person. One must come to grips with the idea that there will always be prejudices and biases placed upon anything outside of “the norm.” Despite that reality, we must be courageous and choose to live our truths. Once you do that work, you have to grow comfortable with narrating your journey with vulnerability and transparency. In my experience, openly sharing my journey might inspire increased hope and strength in someone else - maybe even you. 


People can contact me at: Hsliv@me.com

Social Media Instagram: The_hair_genie


Horace Lovett Bio

Senior Stylist Horace Lovett is a native of the East coast. As an Army-brat, he lived in Georgia, the Carolinas, New Jersey and Germany.  His affinity for styling hair began at the impressionable age of twelve. On weekends, Horace would work as an assistant to his aunt, who owned a salon and served as a master stylist.  Witnessing the transformations of the salon’s patrons, Horace discovered what he considered his life’s passion –hair!   Horace is an honors graduate of Paul Mitchell School of Atlanta, one of the premier cosmetology programs in the world. He is able to transform his clients with innovative hairstyles and cuts. In addition to salon work, Horace has worked with the hair department for “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” and “Mocking Jay” Part 1. He has also worked on numerous music video shoots to include “Baby D” And “Gucci Man”. His work has also been featured in nationally renowned magazines such as Essence, Black Hair, and The Huffington Post . His styling’s have also been feature in digital ads for some of the industry’s top hair companies.


Compiled by Tanysha W. Carroll Contributor Coordinator www.tanyshawcarroll.com