The Tanzanite Ring: A Business (and Life) Lesson in Disguise

This is a ring that’s been tucked away in storage for years.

Until recently, I’d almost forgotten the power it held—not just as a gorgeous piece of jewelry, but as a symbol of how far we can come when we trust ourselves and take bold action.

The Backstory:

Window Shopping and Wishful Thinking:

There was a little estate jewelry shop in my old neighborhood.

Every time I walked by, this tanzanite ring in the window would call my name. I tried it on more than once. I loved it. But I never gave myself permission to buy it.

The owner started to recognize me as “the lady who visits the ring.”

We’d smile, chat, and—always—I’d leave empty-handed.

When Everything Goes Wrong (and Then SO Right)

Fast forward to the day I was hosting a big program launch. Expectations were sky-high. And everything that could go wrong DID go wrong:

• The power went out at my house the morning of the webinar.

• I jumped in my car and drove—through LA rush hour—to my mom’s house to get online (AOL dial-up, anyone?)

• I started the call just as my mom’s cleaning lady fired up the vacuum!

I did the best I could, under less-than-glamorous circumstances.

After 90 minutes, my mom knocked on the door and said, “What happened?” I checked my sales cart—five figures in program sales had rolled in.

My mom blinked and said, “You just made that much money in 90 minutes? Well, you’re buying dinner!”

A Win Worth Celebrating

On my way home, I marched right back to that jewelry store.

The owner — who’d been waiting for me to finally say yes—asked, “Is today the day?”

It was. I bought that ring for myself, as a reminder that I can—and do—persevere, no matter what curveballs life throws my way.

The Ring Returns

Then life got messy (as it does), and I tucked the ring away for safekeeping and forgot about it.

During our move to Tucson, I found it again, slipped it on my finger, and instantly remembered what it felt like to win—even when the odds felt stacked against me.

Business Lessons from a Tanzanite Ring:

• Don’t wait for permission to celebrate your wins. Buy the ring. Wear the shoes. Toast your success—on your terms.

• Success often shows up when things are messy and imperfect.

• The “perfect” moment rarely arrives.

• Do your best, show up anyway, and magic can happen.

• Remind yourself of your past wins.

• When life gets bumpy, symbols of previous success can help reignite your confidence and drive.

There’s always time to start shining again.

Whether you’re digging a ring out of storage or dusting off a long-held dream, it’s never too late for your next big win.

So, what’s your version of the tanzanite ring?

Is it a pair of shoes, a favorite lipstick, an award, or a love note from a client?

Whatever it is—don’t let it gather dust.

Let it remind you:

You’re a winner, and your next magnificent chapter is waiting.

Now’s the time to shine and sparkle.

Nancy Juetten

I am a messaging strategist, inspired mastermind leader, and founder of the Ruby Slipper Collective and the Love Your Business Love Your Life Inner Circle. These are intimate masterminds through which accomplished women and purpose-driven leaders design their next magnificent chapters in life and work and bring their new dreams to life together. If you are seeking the right room for your next magnificent chapter in life and work, check out both and reach out for a private chat.