We were lucky to catch up with Anne Leedom recently and have shared our conversation below.
Anne, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
I have always been surrounded by people who I felt were more successful, smarter, prettier and in many ways, more blessed than I felt I was. Imposter syndrome was my middle name, growing up. As I became an adult, I knew I wanted to have choices in life. I was driven to live a life based on what I can offer, and not what value society dictated. That meant getting an education and being involved in things I felt very passionate about. It meant getting to k now myself and being true to my heart, no matter what. And I have been through a lot of ‘no matter what.’
That focus gave me my sense of purpose and direction, as I was very tuned into what moved me. Helping others became a cornerstone to my identity, as I soon realized that no matter what gifts others had, I had something meaningful to contribute to their lives. I discovered this both personally and professionally. As I measured my sense of worth and value by what I could bring to their lives, I never felt the comparison issues that plagued me as I child. When I did and do see someone that makes me like feel I might not be ‘good enough’ to be in their circle, I remember it is not a competition based on who they are. My value is based on what I can bring to their lives, regardless of external based worth. We all will differ and in some ways, or fall short when using comparison as our foundation for worth. However, when value is based on integrity, effort and bringing our unique qualities to bear on others, imposter syndrome isn’t an issue. Acceptance of who I am and the awareness of the good I can do keeps me focused and prevents imposter syndrome from setting in.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I began Emote PR in 1999, known globally for innovative and intentional media campaigns for authors, experts, speakers and self-help coaches, as well as lifestyle brands. I created a highly unique conversion system, Emote Messaging Design™, to elevate my client’s message. I create heart-centered content, websites and related materials to authentically connect my client with audiences.
Positioned to grow lifestyle and motivational brands for leading voices, products, and companies, I shape conversations globally and regionally. I provide editors the level of original, engaging content they trust.
Working with thousands of clients across every form of media, I am the resource many media outlets rely on for authoritative, compelling voices. My unique and passionate client base provide ongoing inspiration and innovation for highly sought after resources. Powerful messaging supports media in need of trusted information and experts who lead the world in parenting and family, health and wellness, relationships, spirituality and inspiration, business, and all areas of daily living. I provide media presence online via prestige website positioning, podcasts and TV.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Connections were a major part of my journey. I surrounded myself with people who I believed in deeply and wanted to help build their success. I didn’t know how at the time, but my intention was always to build people up and support their dreams
Innovation was also a primary factor, as I began my business when the Internet was just starting in 1999. I learned everything I could regarding online PR and website promotion, SEO, etc. I found ways to create massive interest for the authors I worked with in my early campaigns and build on that over the years. I had an education in Journalism, which gave me to foundation to speak the language for editorial PR.
Consistency was a third and crucial factor in my success, as working with media always requires steady and ongoing outreach, learning how to help editors and producers do their job, and to create highly unique materials media found compelling.
Ultimately, find the qualities that you want to develop and grow in yourself, and then find a way to bring those qualities to a career you find intriguing. It is your unique qualities and innovative ways to grow that creates lasting success. I studied many of Steve Jobs philosophies and find the concept of ‘think different’ to be my daily mantra. Evolve, grow and listen.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
My parents reinforced in me that it was a wonderful thing that I was different. I saw the world differently than my siblings and still do. So I looked beyond my family and found friends who shared my vision and others who were able to support my passion and unique perspective. I was always focused on finding the right people to lean on rather than changing myself. Learning the power I had inside myself, regardless of how the world or my family treated me gave me an internal compass, courage and sense that I had everything I needed to find my place in the world, and with a lot of luck and ongoing support, I landed just where I was meant to me. My parents could not have been prouder of me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.emotepr.com
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anneleedom
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
