We’re looking forward to introducing you to Shelly Cannon. Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Shelly , we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
I think the start of your day sets the tone for the hours that follow. After a big drink of water, I get outside pronto. The daylight (sun or clouds) signals to your body it’s time to wake up. I walk down to the ocean and along the seawall, about a 50-60 minute walk, which enables me to take in the ions from one of my greatest inspiration sources: the ocean. I have something with plenty of protein and then tackle my most challenging copywriting project as soon as possible (morning folk here). Most of all, I remind myself the world is miraculous!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I have been a creator and copywriter for many moons. I love using language to solve challenges and write stories, using concepts and words to capture the essence of people and organizations. I collaborate with talented designers, developers, and photographers to bring it all to life. More than ever, I love to share the creative process and the art of storytelling to inspire people. And I am profoundly passionate about the people whose stories I write. Because what makes us human is what connects us most of all.
What sets shellycannoncreative.com apart is that I not only work with foundations and heartfelt creators but also am committed to finding the best in people to tell their story. As someone who spent most of her career engaging in “marketingspeak,” my goal for the past few years has been to connect with people’s humanity, and articulate their story in a way that inspires others. Not unlike what you do. In that spirit, I’ve developed a level of depth and wisdom I did not possess at a younger age, and that makes my work better. In a sense, we are all here to be of service. I love knowing I can make a difference for people using a skill I’ve mastered over many years. It’s a deeper level of connection.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
I would definitely say my father. From an early age, he knew I was a creator and encouraged that: being an artist, craftsperson, and writer. I used to make these tiny books with words and images that were really about nothing but I loved the idea of making things. My mum was supportive but in a very practical way. She was about the quotidian things whereas my dad understood the creative process, something that informs my work to this day. I would also say he helped cultivate my love of words with nightly Scrabble championships that were educational without my knowing it. I won a lot … now I wonder if he just let me win!
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
This is a great question! It speaks to the heart of learning to love yourself and understanding what you bring to the world. There’s a whole group of fears — my greatest hits! — that I once allowed to hold me back. Fear of not being good enough, of making mistakes, of getting things wrong. Perfection is the enemy and I let it hold me back.
Now I know we have to take baby steps to move forward … if it doesn’t work out, it’s a learning process. We have to know in the marrow of our bones we are worthy upon arrival. I know that the validation and approval I once sought externally are all within. I am the one whose opinion matters most about me and my work. This may seem counterintuitive if you’re providing creative services to others but I hold myself to such a high standard that if I’m happy with the work, there’s a 99% possibility my clients will be. Always doing your best is its own reward. I love the process and that elevates what I do.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes. There was a time it was all about “show” and others’ perceptions of me. But at this stage in my life, having done a tsunami of personal growth work, I am in public as I am in private. I care deeply about people and finding their humanity, about understanding the importance of kindness. In this current atmosphere of chaos and mayhem, we have to find the still center of who we are, our truth, and not compromise what we believe in. When people toss around “values-aligned” work, it sounds good, but I live it. It’s who I am. And that in turn informs my ability to create at a higher level and work with people whose contributions and character are born of integrity. I am a person who delivers on her promises and inspires the people around her. That’s what matters to me.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What will you regret not doing?
Taking more risks. This resonates because in the past I played small, to my detriment. It’s taken a long time to realize that my dedication, writing, and creativity make a difference. My work illuminates the brilliance of clients, creators, and donors: it puts them front and center. And that helps them shine. Taking risks has always been a challenge for the aforementioned reasons (thinking I was not good enough or fearing making a mistake). But here’s the truth: we are here for a very short time. If we fully inhabit our lives and take more risks, we’re going to have far fewer regrets.
One of my fave quotes: “Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it; boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.” NOTE: Some say this was written by Goethe, others attribute it to the Scottish mountaineer and author, W. H. Murray. Either way, it’s about being willing to take a risk and begin something new. As creators, we must embrace it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://shellycannoncreative.com
- Instagram: @shellycannoncreates
- Linkedin: Shelly Cannon
- Other: In addition to writing about the creative process, I am beginning to coach people who want to learn how to write copy. Reach out to me at shellycannon2015@icloud.com or text me: 760.574.9860.
Image Credits
Josh Cannon
David Loftus
