Polly Tatum: Driven By Hard Work, Perseverance
Tatum
President, Mediation Advantage Services, Worcester
Who is your most influential role model, and why?
I would have to say there were a few people in the community that I grew up in that helped shape and influence me as a person. I was surrounded by a community of strong African-American women who provided me with love, care and support, both emotionally and financially. These women exemplified what it meant to be selfless. They provided me with the notion that working hard for others meant working hard for yourself, that the world was a much bigger place than just your immediate surroundings.
What has helped you achieve success in your career?
Hard work and perseverance. The key to my success was knowing that I wanted more for my children than I had for myself growing up. As a mother of three daughters, I needed to lead by example, not just words. I had many obstacles in my life that I had to overcome from poverty and racism. However, I possess a resilient personality and a strong character, and knew that work ethic mattered. It took me 10 years and three children to earn my college degree and my law degree. Putting myself through school and raising a family, while working full time, made me appreciate my education and not take things for granted.
What's your primary motivator; or if there is one thing that makes you tick or ignites a passion within you, what is it?
I would have to reiterate that my primary motivator was to set a good example and be a good role model for my daughters. I enjoyed participating in their activities while they grew up, including coaching them in their sports. Additionally, it was and still is important to me that all girls are provided with support and mentoring. I am passionate about making sure that girls and people of color have opportunities in life to succeed.
How does your organization give back to the community, and what role have you played in those efforts.
I run a divorce mediation practice in Worcester. Part of the goal of my work is to change and improve the way divorce is practiced, in order to help parents and children who are going through a difficult time in their lives. My background in both law and human services affords me a unique perspective in making the divorce process less painful, both financially and emotionally, for couples.
When the stress level gets too high, how do you ease the pressure?
I wish I had the magic answer for this question. However, I do the best that I can, lean on family and friends for support. A glass of wine, some chocolate and some good reality TV to help remind me of my blessings in life.
How have you tried to balance your career and your personal life? Please give an example or two.
What's helped me the most is to have a good support system of friends and family. When my children were young, having friends to call upon to pick up a child, or watch them was helpful. Now that my children are grown, I try and reciprocate for my friends who need me to help pick up their children, or go to their games, etc. I believe it really does require a village to raise a child. Additionally, one of the reasons I wanted to have my own business was so that I could have the flexibility and autonomy to be able to handle personal time. Finally, having a sense of humor and not taking one so seriously. Life is too short, so it's OK to grant yourself permission to smell the roses.n
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