Today we’d like to introduce you to Anna McAlister.
Anna, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I have always believed that every person is born with unique strengths, but that many people find it challenging to discover them. Identifying our strengths and unique talents are key to living a joyful life and designing a rewarding career. I was very lucky to stumble into a coaching class in graduate school that led me on my path of assisting people with their own journeys. I have studied positive psychology and many other theories of positive change. Soon after I received my MA in Organizational/Individual Development, I began coaching. I have assisted small business owners, executives and entrepreneurs achieve their goals by asking the right questions and making a doable action plan.
Why I do this work? Uncovering what lights you up and gets you motivated to show up fully present in the moment is my passion. Focusing on finding what works and leveraging positive energy to get you to your goal is an exciting journey. Working with people to help them achieve their dreams is incredibly rewarding and inspiring.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road has had bumps, potholes and sometimes shards of glass. I struggled with finding the right major and then having the courage to follow my big dreams. I started as a Clinical Psychology major but found that it wasn’t the right path. I wanted to help people, contribute something meaningful, change the world in a positive way… but I wasn’t meant to be a therapist. I was devastated, as I watched a hard-earned dream slip away. I had worked very hard, but it was time to fully let go. I stared at that closed door for a long time before I finally turned the knob and walked towards my big dream. I took a deep breath and applied to a new major and a new and very exciting chapter unfolded. I was good at coaching people! I was great at helping people identify their strengths, creating a process to achieve their goals and stay on track. Owning my big dreams outweighed my fears.
My advice to women, especially young women is to worry less and go for it. I had a huge fear of failing and I let my fear of failure hold me back from learning to succeed. It’s ok to fail, to stumble, fall flat on your face but do not try and grab your dreams is not. I suggest adopting a really good sense of humor too. Dream big, but don’t let your dreams intimidate you. Sometimes, when we dream big, it can feel overwhelming to try and be patient in the beginning. I really believe that when we are beginning we overthink and plan too much. Dream big and allow for course correction. Adjust your sails if you need to and find your true North Star.
What should we know about Anna McAlister Coaching? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Technically, I am an Organizational Psychologist which means I studied a lot about change management and systems. I specialize in creating a tailored process for individuals to achieve their goals by using their strengths and focusing on what is working. I am known for my positive energy, ability to motivate people, and that I am passionate about a good process and plan.
As a brand, I am so proud to have helped many entrepreneurial women identify their strengths and get clear about their businesses. One of my proud moments was coaching a new Mom (she did the messaging for Levi’s Strauss) who had her own media business in my kitchen define her services and create firm boundaries with her clients. She was/is a talented creative, but needed assistance in defining her business structure. I will always remember how exciting it was to coach her to the next level and watch her embrace her worth.
I feel I am unique in that I have a good balance of education and experience. I was lucky early on in my career to work with women in high-level positions and entrepreneurs. I am passionate about business, but I am a creative at heart.
It would be great to hear about any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve used and would recommend to others.
My favorite books: “The Other 90% How to Unlock your untapped potential.” “Change at the Speed of Imagination.” “The Circle of Innovation.”
Inspirational Blogs: Glennon Doyle and Brene Brown.
Pricing:
- First half hour of coaching no charge
- $75 per hour.
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.annamcalistercoaching.com
- Phone: 858.888.2466
- Email: anna.mcalister@yahoo.com
- Instagram: Anna_mcalister_coaching
Image Credit:
Anna McAlister Coaching
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