We were lucky to catch up with Ashton August recently and have shared our conversation below.
Ashton, thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?
Resilience: the ability to withstand or recover quickly from difficulties. My resilience comes from a blend of life experiences and a deep inner drive. Growing up, I faced challenges that pushed me to develop a strong sense of self-reliance, but it wasn’t just hardship that shaped me – it was the support of loved ones, mentors, and my own commitment to growth. It is my belief that every setback can become an opportunity to learn, and over time, I’ve built a mindset built on perseverance. It’s also rooted in the purpose I’ve found in helping others, which fuels my determination to keep going, no matter the obstacles.
In fact, when we can embrace obstacles and challenges as teachers and growth opportunities, it removes that inherent urge to label as “bad” or “scary” and we can replace that with “exciting” or “I’m up for the challenge.” Our mindset shapes our reality and experiences so I consciously choose to ask “how is this happening FOR me” in every situation.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
For the past decade, I’ve been immersed in the yoga and wellness space while growing and running my company, YouAligned.com and our yoga app YA Classes. During this time I have also written 3 books …
I’m thrilled to share that my new book, 101 Mindfulness Practices to Ease Anxiety, is now available for preorder! This guide features practical and accessible exercises that blend yoga, breathwork, meditation, and mindful mindset techniques to help ease anxiety and find inner calm. Whether you’re new to mindfulness or looking to deepen your practice, this book is filled with tools designed for real-life moments of stress and overwhelm. You can preorder your copy now on Amazon and Barnes & Noble!
Preorder here: https://amzn.to/4fNEZmt
For me, yoga and meditation became the “gateway drug” to mindfulness. As I expand further into the practice and lifestyle of mindfulness, I can’t emphasize enough how life-altering it can be for everyone and particularly those who struggle with their mental health (myself included).
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?
1. Perseverance – I am a very persistent person!
Persistence is showing up even when things get tough or progress feels slow. Remember that setbacks are part of the process. Each challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow – embrace them as a chance to strengthen your resolve. Stay connected to your “why,” and let that purpose keep you moving forward.
2. Optimism – which is not to be confused with blanket / toxic positivity
For those looking to develop or improve optimism, start by consciously choosing to reframe negative thoughts, instead of focusing on what could go wrong. Surround yourself with positivity – whether through uplifting people, books, or practices that inspire you. And, importantly, practice gratitude regularly; acknowledging the good in your life can help shift your mindset and build a more optimistic outlook. Optimism grows with intention and small, everyday shifts in perspective.
3. Outgoing – I have no problem with and thoroughly enjoy meeting, networking, and working with people
As a naturally outgoing person, I’ve learned that simply being genuinely curious about other people, actively listening to them and asking meaningful questions not only shows you care but deepens the bond. Meeting and networking with people has helped all of my endeavors immensely.
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
As an industry consultant in the wellness space, I am so passionate about supporting my clients in starting or building their personal brand / company.
My ideal client is someone who recognizes the value in mentorship and understands the importance of guidance in achieving their goals. They have a strong drive and vision but seek support with goal setting, accountability, and actionable steps to bring their ideas to life. They’re committed to their growth and success, and they’re ready to take the necessary steps to build a thriving personal brand or company with focused strategy and expert support.
I am ready to help them accomplish precisely this! If you’re reading this and interested in learning more about my consulting offerings, please contact me or visit my website: ashtonaugust.com.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ashtonaugust.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamashtonaugust/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iamashtonaugust/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashton-august-yogiapproved/
Image Credits
All photos: With Love Photo
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