We had the good fortune of connecting with Valerie Sweeten and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Valerie, what’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?
I think this is an excellent question simply because it applies to virtually any industry, and my answer is that you have to evolve as a business. If 2020 hasn’t been the most prominent example of how important this is, I don’t know what is. My career began as a freelance writer, which has allowed me to work in a variety of mediums. It also provided various work situations that were contract, onsite, telecommuting, one-time jobs, and some that pushed my boundaries and taught me innovative skills that I use today. Evolution is a necessity in business as we grow, expand our talents and skills as well as make new partnerships that benefit our fellow business owners and community. It also allows us to embrace forward-thinking opportunities and partnerships that can be beneficial in the present and future. Relationship building, networking, and understanding a variety of visions is how businesses and entrepreneurs grow. I’ve seen this in my blog, freelance projects and author endeavors, and I can’t stress how important it is. Think of it as a learning process because if learning and evolving isn’t one of the most vital aspects of a business, I’m not sure what is.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I like staying busy with my freelance, teaching, writing, and volunteering when I can. I feel that switch in directions keeps me on my toes, and I like meeting new people to hear how they’re finding innovative ways to use their talents. With my career as a children’s book author, it was a dream that became a reality as did creating and continuing with my blog. I’ve also been blessed to be able to continue to write and work on various platforms in my freelance career mostly due to referrals. There is no limit to the possibilities if you don’t allow yourself to be stopped. I credit my work ethic to watching my Dad run his own business.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We actually got to be able to do this in December 2019 when we had family come from various states. My family took them as many places as we could cram in during their visit. They went to Bellaire to have hot pot, downtown for a mural tour, to Rice Village for shopping & dining, and then more food adventures from smaller venues. They loved it, and we loved showing the diversity of Houston! I only wish we could’ve had more time! I love my city!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Shout out first to my family and friends, who have stood my side through thick and thin! Also to the incredibly talented Houston bloggers who are super extra about supporting each other from the Houston Food Bloggers Collective to Fashion Group International-Houston!! Also, to all of Houston’s highly dedicated public relations firms and business contacts that keep us informed and connected on all the fascinating news and happenings on our city! I couldn’t do any of this without you!

Website: www.hotinhoustonnow.com
Instagram: hotinhoustonnow
Linkedin: Valerie Sweeten
Twitter: @hotinhoustonnow
Facebook: Hot in Houston Now

Image Credits
By Valerie Sweeten