Meet Steve Hanson

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Steve Hanson. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Steve below.

Steve, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
That’s a great question. If I’m being completely honest, it’s something I work on every single day. I can only speak for myself, but I have found that overcoming imposter syndrome is multifaceted. The first thing has been to give myself a bit of grace, for being less than perfect. Whenever I screw up, I practice discernment instead of judgement. I try to make an honest assessment of what went wrong, then do my best to learn from it, and not repeat the same mistakes. I also think that having a sense of purpose has been key. There’s just no substitute for having something to look forward to. Finally, I think I’ve been stubborn enough to keep going, even when I haven’t wanted to. The nature of growth is persistence. I would advise people to accept themselves as they are, but to always be open to change. Challenge yourself, forgive yourself, practice positive self-talk, and be purposeful in your actions. If you do those things consistently, you can’t help but grow organically and authentically. It becomes difficult to consider yourself an imposter, once you become comfortable in your own skin.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am an inspirational and educational speaker, and I am currently focusing on doing work with students on college campuses. I have a lot of experience with issues of self-confidence, anxiety, and even a bit of self-harm. While, for the most part, those issues have been gone for some time, I have an empathetic mindset, and I am driven to help people acquire the tools they need to succeed in both their careers, and in their lives. In addition to empowering keynote presentations, I offer specific training sessions on the topics of “Purpose”, “Letting Go Of What No Longer Serves You”, “Self-Talk”, “Perseverance”, “Communication”, and “Boundaries”. As someone with almost 30 years of manufacturing experience, I also offer “Leadership” training.
Currently, I am writing a book that I hope will be published by the end of the year, and I am giving strong consideration to getting into life and career coaching.
Although life is always changing, the goal remains the same; to make a difference, and hopefully, leave this world just a little bit better than I found it.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Well, I can give you three really important lessons that I’ve learned along the way. Would that be okay?

First of all, I would say that it’s important to recognize that self-care is not selfish. I believe that each of us has a responsibility to pay it forward, but the truth is that you can’t be there for others, until you first learn to care for yourself.

Secondly, it’s crucial to develop a sense of gratitude. It may sound obvious or corny, but counting your blessings is really, really important to your mental health.

Finally, accept that no one can do it alone. Be willing to ask for help.

As far as how to develop these skills, there really is no big secret. Be intentional, and be consistent. It’s that simple. And it’s that hard.

Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
I’ve been blessed with incredible parents. I would have to say that the most impactful thing they did for me, and the thing that means the most to me, by far, is that they gave me the gift of independence. They encouraged me to think for myself, and to form my own opinions.

Contact Info:

Suggest a Story: BoldJourney is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
Leadership Development
Empathy Unlocked: Understanding how to Develop Emotional Intelligence

“Empathy is the starting point for creating a community and taking action. It’s the impetus

Productivity
Where do you get your work ethic from?

We’ve all heard the phrase “work hard, play hard,” but where does our work ethic

Productivity
Boosting Productivity Through Self-Care

When you have a never-ending to-do list it can feel irresponsible to engage in self-care,