Powerful Habits for Ambitious Women In Nashville
On November 13th, Heels & Handshakes Nashville Chapter brought together a remarkable panel of four powerhouse women to share candid stories, build connection, and leave our community with actionable habits to build success for their Annual Heels & Habits Luncheon Presented by Studio Bank.
Meet the Panel
Amanda Hughes, strategic leader and managing partner with over a decade in talent, professional services, technology, and finance.
Cheyna Matthews, athlete turned entrepreneur and philanthropist, with international soccer experience and focus on empowerment beyond sport.
Jennifer Jezewski, with 15+ years driving revenue and cultivating brands, launched Modern Luxury National to connect communities and elevate voices.
Vannesia Darby, award‑winning marketing leader, digital strategist, and doctoral candidate, guiding brands and individuals alike to clarity and impact.
Highlights & Key Themes
1. Resiliency + Overcoming Self‑Doubt
Our panel acknowledged: even the most accomplished women face comparison, imposter syndrome, and the fear of not being “ready.”
For instance:
“Someone else’s accomplishments don’t diminish mine.”
“Pressure is what you feel when you don’t know what you’re doing — preparation is the antidote.”
These powerful reminders resonate: your past wins matter, your preparation counts, and your mindset is a muscle.
2. Turning Vision into Action
We don’t just dream — we plan and act. Strategies shared include:
Scheduling everything — your goals deserve a time slot.
Treating your life like a project: using tools, automation, delegation.
Breaking down big ambitions into daily habits: even three meaningful tasks per day shift the trajectory.
3. The Network Effect
Success happens in community. Panelists reinforced that building relationships before you need them is crucial, and that it’s okay to ask for help, delegate, and lean into your “village.”
“You don’t always have to be the smartest one in the room — you want to be in the room with people pushing you.”
Authentic connection > transactional networking.
4. Embracing Setbacks
Setbacks aren’t failures — they’re fuel.
One story: A major project crumbled in a moment, and what followed was intentional reflection, a pivot, and the launch of something even bigger.
“Fail fast, fail forward” became the rallying cry: extracting lessons, adjusting, and moving ahead rather than staying stuck.
5. Wellness & Boundaries for High‑Performing Women
Ambition shouldn’t come at the expense of self‑care.
Tools shared: a morning walk, dedicated “me” time before emails, the mantra of choosing three meaningful things per day instead of trying to do it all.
Because you can’t pour from an empty cup: your energy, your presence, your leadership depend on you being well.
Action Items for You
Inspired by the event, here are three habits you can start today:
Give yourself permission to try something unfamiliar and step outside your comfort zone.
Define the woman you’re becoming: what does her day look like? Then reverse‑engineer one habit to align.
When setback hits: pause, reflect, identify the lesson, and move forward with the next step rather than retreat.
Thank you to everyone who showed up — your presence made the room hum with possibility. And a special shout‑out to our amazing partners for their support and generosity.
Studio Bank
Hilton Nashville Green Hills
Next Health
Adam Wealth Partners
Diana Marie Photography
KTVP
Connie Duglin Linen
Hey Hey Creative
Session Pilates
Vision Events & Design
Amanda Scripts Calligraphy
Splendidly Social
Together, let’s keep building, connecting, and showing up boldly.
If you were unable to attend this sold-out luncheon, we would love to invite you to join the Nashville Chapter next month for their Annual Holiday Party. To find out more about this celebration, click here.