We recently connected with Liese Gardner and have shared our conversation below.
Liese, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
I have found that while I always have a purpose in my endeavors, it’s ever-evolving along with my personal growth. Presently, my overarching aim is to serve those around me, both in my professional and personal relationships. There’s something deeply fulfilling about helping others perceive their narratives from a fresh perspective, whether I’m crafting marketing strategies or guiding them through their memoirs.
If I were to sum it up: Goals provide direction, passion fuels the journey, and purpose is the driving force behind our actions.
If you are on a quest to uncover your purpose, a good place to start is with your passions. And if you’re unsure of what those may be, don’t hesitate to experiment. There’s no harm in trying out various pursuits as you evolve and as circumstances shift. What activities bring you joy? Are you proficient at them? Can you impart that knowledge to others? If you can find a way to contribute from a place of passion, then you’ve found your purpose. Be generous in your giving and ensure it holds value.
For me, storytelling has always been my passion, whether through visual means or with words. From pursuing a degree in journalism to landing my initial role as a magazine editor, I followed my passion to discover my purpose. Today, I earn a living through writing, whether it’s termed content marketing, memoir composition, or crafting newsletters and social media posts. It’s all about weaving narratives.
Purpose not only shapes our priorities but also guides our actions, providing a sense of direction. And when the journey gets tough, it’s our passion that propels us forward.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I collaborate with established businesses and individuals who aspire to leave a lasting legacy, whether through personal endeavors like memoirs or through larger projects such as conferences or workshops. They’re eager to acknowledge the evolution of their work and share those insights with others. One of my clients coined the term “Brand Therapy” to describe my approach to marketing—a relationship-centered, nurturing form of marketing and public relations. I choose to work with people and brands I deeply respect, where their mission becomes my passion, and promoting it becomes my purpose.
On a personal note, I publish a “Museletter” twice a month, a platform that allows me to channel my editorial background from my days as a magazine editor. I’m currently writing a book that encapsulates decades of experience in teaching, coaching, marketing, writing, and learning. My hope is that it will serve as a source of inspiration and motivation for others embarking on their own bold journeys.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge have been particularly impactful.
ACTIVE LISTENING. It’s all about tuning in without an agenda, asking questions, to be fully engaged and responsive. I learned the power of this skill as a journalist, but it hit home when I saw Maria Shriver interviewing Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Shriver’s attentive posture and genuine interest created a dynamic, authentic conversation. It’s a reminder that being fully present not only honors the other person but also fosters deeper connections—a key to being a stellar journalist like Shriver.
BEING CURIOUS. In a world where information is at our fingertips, genuine curiosity can feel like a rare gem. It’s a quality that can enrich every aspect of our lives, yet I worry we aren’t proper custodians to this gift. This came to light for me on a recent flight across the country after years of being grounded due to the pandemic. As the plane soared out over the ocean, banking right to head inland and show off the California coastline, I was eager to soak in the view. I was surprised to find that most passengers had their window shades down, absorbed in their digital worlds. For me, gazing down at the patchwork of farmland always sparked wonder. What stories lie within those tiny rectangles below? Imagining the lives of those families below, I realized that curiosity isn’t just the beginning of good stories; it’s the essence of a rich, fulfilling life.
RUN YOUR OWN RACE. Just like racehorses wear blinders to stay focused on the track ahead, we too can benefit from focusing on our own journey rather than getting distracted by what others are doing. You’ve likely come across the sentiment on social media: “Comparison is the death of joy.” It’s a powerful reminder to find joy in our own unique self-expression. Instead of worrying about how our peers are faring, embrace the fact that there’s only one you! Whether you’re writing a book, marketing your business, or perfecting your pizza recipe, remember that no one else will do it quite like you. Take pride in your individuality and let that special spark shine through. After all, it’s what sets us apart and makes life’s journey so wonderfully diverse!
For those embarking on their journey, my advice is simple:
Cultivate active listening. Be present, responsive, and genuinely interested in others. It’s a skill that not only fosters meaningful connections but also opens doors to new opportunities.
Stay curious about the world around you. Ask questions, explore new perspectives, and let your sense of wonder guide you. It’s the fuel for growth, both personally and professionally.
Embrace all that is weird and wonderful about yourself. There is only one you!
These qualities are not just tools for success—they’re also sources of joy and fulfillment. So, as you navigate your journey, let active listening and curiosity be your trusted companions, guiding you toward a life rich in meaning and possibility.
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
Pocket Full of Do by Chris Do.
“Realize that no one starts perfect, and the talent you perceive in the people you admire on social media is the tip of an iceberg. Underneath all of that are many years of hard work, failures. and false starts. Look how far you’ve come and how much you’ve grown. The only comparison you should make is between the old you and the new you!!”
“Don’t wait for the perfect moment; take the moment and make it perfect.”
Contact Info:
- Website: www.liesegardner.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liesegardner/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liesegardner/
Image Credits
Candis Press Photography Bree McCool Photography Paige Ray Photography
