We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Whitney Strauss a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Whitney, 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 definitely not overcome imposter syndrome, but I have learned to harness it. The rooms I am in are full of highly degreed, intelligent, and skilled people that have done amazing things. It’s incredible as well as intimidating. I have used two methods to harness that insecurity –understanding the difference between confidence and arrogance and to never stop learning. I am confident in what I have learned and my experience, however, I reminded humble to know I don’t know everything – and really never will. My take on something may be very different than someone else and there’s value to see the other side. I have also learned the value of taking a step back to really listen to understand and never stop learning.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am the proud Executive Director of the AdvoCare Foundation with a mission to help all families live healthy, safe and happy lives through addressing access to physical activity, nutrition and healthy food. I also am senior counsel at Sunwest Communications as a part of their CSR and Philanthropic solutions team. I love Dallas and being involved in my city. I currently serve on the boards of Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum, Texas Ballet Theater and Turtle Creek Chorale. I am also active in the John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health to bring more awareness to thoracic aortic disease. I have also authored two award-winning children’s books and hope to write more. I am finishing up my doctorate degree at SMU with the goal of becoming a true specialist in social change and impact. With all of this, my favorite subject is my “boys” and stay busy as a Mom of two active teenage sons. My favorite stress relievers are cooking and running as often as I can.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
The three skills that have served me well in my career is a love for learning, treat all people with dignity and being comfortable with getting uncomfortable. All these skills have helped me continue to grow and develop in multiple ways and have given me not only incredible experiences but many options for my career path. I also feel it has helped me being a well-rounded person which I pass on to my children. For those early in career, I would recommend especially to never stop learning and challenging yourself to experience new things. Regardless of if it leads to a new job or new skill, you will grow as a person.
All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?
I am having the challenge of several intersections of life happening at the same time. it is not a negative but just how life goes. Professionally I am getting close to reaching a huge goal of finishing my doctorate degree. In addition, personally, I am balancing a hectic schedule of supporting my sons with one graduating from high school this year and starting college. All of this is exciting and unsettling at the same time. I have learned to let go of the worries and things I can’t control and be fully present to enjoy the moments. It really helps to have a great support network for me to be able to be vulnerable with how I am feeling and lean on.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: linkedin.com/in/whitney-w-strauss
Image Credits
Fourth photo – Opal Lee with myself and son at the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum
