84: How I Redefined “Success” For Myself and How You Can Too

Some anxiety is survival, but most of my anxiety isn’t that. I have the most anxiety when I’m living a life that doesn’t align with my goals, hopes, and energy. It isn’t about what I’m doing. It’s about what I’m NOT doing.

“Do you like anxiety? Cause I don’t…”

I shared this with Matt Story, Visa VP when he interviewed me about how I’m always brave enough to ask for help and make tough decisions.

I feel like once a decade, I go through an “identity crisis” of wanting to change my definition of success and saying…BYE BYE BYE to others expectations.

You too?

After graduating college during the recession, I became the youngest director for an organization at the age of 22.

Not only was I the youngest, but I was also the ONLY person of color at the decision-making table.

Eventually, I transitioned from working in politics to the nonprofit sector, with the goal of leading a nonprofit organization. That's why I pursued my Master’s in Leadership and Management. However, on the day I graduated, I realized that I actually wanted to start my own coaching business to support women of color and allies.

Even in the past few years, my definition of success and happiness has continued to evolve. I've come to understand that my current definition of “success” is more than just work.

Even on Monday, I went over my numbers (which I do weekly), and I got more clarity on how I just want to bring in 2-4 new clients per month.

This episode is slightly different because I'm being interviewed for my friend's podcast, Matt Story. Matt is the VP of Visa, and his podcast is called "What's Your Story?" It would be a great opportunity to showcase myself and share my story in this interview.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• The Impact of Representation in Leadership
• Adapting Business Strategies in Changing Times
• The Importance of Storytelling in Legacy Building

If you would like to see how to work with me to create a more sustainable life where you can be more present with yourself and create your own checklist of success that’s not created by society and loved ones, then schedule a complimentary legacy business and career review at elainelou.com/call

Resources Mentioned:
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Where We Can Connect:
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Check out our other podcasts for Women of Color