Life & Work with Michelle Gillis

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Michelle Donice Gillis.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My name is Michelle Donice Gillis, Ph. D. and I’m the founder of The North Star LLC. I founded the North Star to provide a space for a diverse group of women to connect authentically. The North Star hosts both in-person, and virtual events, and retreats built upon discovery, service, connection, spiritual growth, and empowerment.

We also have a member platform where our members can engage. Unlike traditional networking groups, we have a lot of fun and network in ways that don’t feel like work. I found that some of the networking events that I attended left me feeling sterile and unseen, so I’ve tried to create the space that I wanted and needed. I’ve been told by our members that The North Star is special and that’s truly music to my ears.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I think the biggest challenge has been financial.

There have been so many times where I’ve wanted to give up, but each time I’m about to throw in the towel a tiny miracle takes place that sustains the business just a little longer. I’m always on the lookout for grants for black-owned, women-owned small businesses. I believe being an entrepreneur is truly a faith walk. When times get difficult, I have to remind myself of my why and how what I’m doing is of service to others. It’s easy to look at the numbers in the beginning and say “this isn’t working” but I want to encourage other small business owners (and myself) to celebrate the small victories and to always keep your eyes on the bigger vision.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a writer, but I think that sometimes gets forgotten. I’ve published short fiction, fiction, and non-fiction. My books are Follow Your North Star and The Other Side of Through, both are available on Amazon. However, I think my greatest achievement is that I’ve worked with hundreds of girls and women to help them achieve their goals. It all began in the classroom when i taught English, and then it expanded to my life coaching, and now I’ve created this community where I can do what I love on a larger scale with woman all around the world.

I’ve always said that teaching is my dream job, but I never would have imagined that I’d be teaching from a stage and not a classroom podium.

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
I’ve learned not to judge my work whether it’s my writing or the courses or events I’ve created and to not worry about how it is going to be judged. My job is only to tell stories and to create safe spaces that help women heal so that they can be the very best version of themselves!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.thenorthstarllc.com
• Instagram: The North Star Community
• Facebook: The North Star Community

Image Credits
Judith Hill Photography