Daily Inspiration: Meet Mercedes Johnson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mercedes Johnson.

Hi Mercedes, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I’ve always been creative with big dreams! When I graduated High School and knew that I had to figure my life out, I chose the corporate route because I figured it would be the safest route. Over 8 years, I was working full-time in the corporate recruiting world, while living a double life as a singer, actress, entrepreneur, marketing director, and brand manager. I knew I couldn’t go on like this but I wasn’t sure what was holding me back.

After all of those years, I’m finally realizing that it was me holding me back! I shut myself down creatively because I didn’t feel that I would be accepted by the world. I shut myself down musically because I didn’t feel that my music was “Market Ready.” I helped over 15 brands elevate and never took credit for it because I was afraid I would fail.

This year, I stopped talking negatively to myself and went after everything that was mine! I am currently working in marketing FULL-TIME, and I have freelance clients on the side. I am also working on something spectacular for my plus-size girls! I am also extremely close to finishing my single & who knows what’s next! But that’s my story……… I’m just a girl that is no longer willing to stand in the way of what God has for her.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I believe if you’re pursuing Christ, nothing is ever smooth. The more obstacles we have, the greater opportunity for growth. To answer your question, my weight has always been a struggle. Looking on Instagram, and seeing what society defines as “beautiful,” and realizing that you’re not it. It’s very tough. But I find rest in who God says I am. I’ve tested many business ideas before.

I tried a t-shirt company, a lipstick company, a recruiting agency, and more. All of which did not succeed.

Throughout my growth process I am realizing that every genius tries multiple times until one day they hit the jackpot. I’m learning not to be afraid of who I am creatively. That might mean I make more mistakes In the future, but as long as I continue to fully accept myself and my journey, then I’m happy with myself.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I do all things brand development and brand marketing! One day, I could be brainstorming the next bottle design for a shampoo line, and the next day I could be onsite, at a photoshoot with a client, making sure we get the proper content! I am just in love with all things creative.

I specialize in building brands from scratch and helping them find their identity. I also have an eye for the market. I understand the hunger of the consumer and can spot a trend from a mile away! But most of all, I just love people.

If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
The most important quality of my success is Jesus Christ. I could not successfully do anything without my faith and direction in God.

He made me, me. He allows me to work with some of the most amazing individuals, and he protects me from what’s not good for me. I could never move forward without God, and he will always be my most attractive quality.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themercedesjohnson/ 

Image Credits
Jessica McIntosh Photography