Writing Potential

For most of my childhood and adolescence I wanted to be a writer. While my top choices were (1) eccentric novelist living in Paris, (2) prolific Rolling Stone reporter, or (3) jet-set Condé Nast travel writer, I would have settled for being a newspaper journalist. My parents were willing to pay for college tuition, but only for someone pursuing a “real job.”

In other words, not an aspiring writer.

One of the reasons I loved to write was that it was the most comfortable way for me to connect with others. Introverted and challenged with low self-esteem,

I could be miles—or at least rooms—away when others interpreted my messages. How safe! It was also a great way to share my experiences, express my feelings, and try to inspire others.

My love of writing (coupled with my parents’ pragmatism) steered me toward undergraduate studies in communication, where I became intrigued by the nuances of interpersonal communication. As I matured professionally, my focus on communication extended to behaviors and human experiences in the workplace. I spent the past seven years as an organizational behavior consultant, advising business leaders how to reframe their own reality and enhance the experience they create for others. Recently, I pursued a Master’s degree focused on organizational behavior. I also participated in a ten-month coaching certification.

Suddenly writing was a daily assignment.

Through writing I reinvigorated my brain, analyzed the thoughts of others, and reached for clarity in my own passion and purpose. Now, a year after launching Thrive, written assignments are one of my most important methods of challenging others to examine themselves, celebrate their potential, and plan for growth. Now, I can help others gain confidence and achieve success.

And now I have a good reason to write.