Meet Tara Holt

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

Tara, 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 can’t say that I’ve overcome it.

Overcoming imposter syndrome is a daily process — one rooted in faith, self-awareness, and intentional reflection. I begin each day by anchoring myself in who God says I am, choosing to walk confidently as a daughter of the King. When self-doubt tries to creep in, I remind myself that I belong, that I have been equipped with every skill and resource needed to fulfill my purpose, and that asking for help is not weakness but wisdom.

Scripture reminds me of my identity and calling:
– **2 Timothy 1:7** — “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.”
– **Philippians 4:13** — “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
– **Ephesians 2:10** — “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
– **1 Peter 2:9** — “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession…”

These verses reaffirm that my worth is not defined by comparison or perfection, but by divine design. Each day, I choose to believe God’s truth over insecurity and to operate from a place of confidence, grace, and gratitude.
“`

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’m the owner of ElevateNow, a Learning and Development consulting firm specializing in Public Speaking, Coaching, and Consulting. We believe growth should feel empowering—not intimidating. Our approach is simple: we help you feel comfortable, confident, and capable of stepping into the best version of yourself.

What excites me most about this work is witnessing transformation—seeing individuals and small business owners gain the clarity, confidence, and communication skills to thrive both personally and professionally. There’s nothing more fulfilling than helping someone realize their potential and begin walking boldly in it.

I’ve recently launched my coaching and consulting business, expanding ElevateNow’s services to include personalized coaching experiences for small business owners, leaders, and anyone ready to develop and grow. Whether it’s mastering public speaking, leading with authenticity, or designing a life and business that reflects your purpose, ElevateNow is here to guide the journey.

To learn more or to begin your own elevation experience, visit [www.elevatenow4you.com](https://www.elevatenow4you.com).

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back, I can confidently say that three key qualities have shaped my journey: over 25 years of training and facilitation experience, the versatility gained from working across multiple industries, and leading with authenticity and empathy. These traits have allowed me to meet people exactly where they are and guide them toward discovering the greatness that already exists within them.

My advice to those just starting their journey is simple yet powerful: give yourself grace. Growth takes time, and learning truly is a lifelong process. Carve out intentional time for your own development—literally put it on your calendar and honor it like any other commitment.

I often tell my clients, You owe you. I’ve already been paid—so don’t waste your investment. Show up, lock in, and excel. Because the best return you can ever make is the one you invest in yourself.
“`

We’ve all got limited resources, time, energy, focus etc – so if you had to choose between going all in on your strengths or working on areas where you aren’t as strong, what would you choose?

I believe it’s far better to go all in on your strengths. When you operate in your zone of genius, you show up stronger, more confident, and more fulfilled—and that energy naturally benefits everyone around you.

I remember watching The Trombone Player Wanted by Marcus Buckingham a leadership expert and strengths strategist whose work deeply influenced my approach to personal and professional growth. In the video, Buckingham shares the idea that Your greatest potential for growth lies in the areas where you already have natural talent. That statement shifted everything for me. It reminded me that excellence doesn’t come from fixing our weaknesses—it comes from refining and expanding what already makes us unique.

His book, *Now, Discover Your Strengths*, co-authored with Donald O. Clifton, reinforced this truth. They found through decades of research that individuals and organizations thrive when they focus on developing strengths rather than overcorrecting weaknesses. Clifton once said, What will happen when we think about what is right with people rather than fixating on what is wrong with them?

That philosophy has guided how I coach and train others. When people embrace and build on what they naturally do well, they unlock joy, creativity, and performance that feels effortless. It’s not about ignoring weaknesses—it’s about leading with what makes you come alive. Because when you do, everyone around you rises too.
“`

Contact Info:

Image Credits

@cornertocorner.org (Growth Mindset and Image with UCLA sweatshirt)

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