What makes a good leader, how to strike work life balance? How can one ensure success in professional endeavours? Many similar questions intrigue and accost most professionals during their career. In an exclusive interview, Shannah Kennedy and Colleen Callander talk about the mantras of success in life that they have shared in their bestselling book Elevate.
1. Elevate emphasizes leading with purpose and vision. How do you
suggest individuals identify their personal "why" in a world full of
distractions?
Your personal "why" begins with knowing your values, which form the foundation of your identity and purpose. Reflect on what matters most to you—what gives your life meaning and drives your decisions. Ask yourself, What are my non- negotiables in life? What makes me feel aligned and fulfilled? When you live according to your values, you gain clarity and direction, allowing your "why" to shine through, even amidst distractions.
2. What qualities do you think are most overlooked in leaders today, and
how can they be cultivated?
Kindness is a transformative quality often overlooked in leadership. It creates trust, fosters a culture of collaboration, and builds loyalty within teams. Leaders can cultivate kindness by being genuinely present, showing appreciation for their team's contributions, and leading by example in creating a supportive environment. Kindness is not a soft skill—it's a powerful tool for building connections and inspiring high performance.
3. Many professionals struggle with burnout. How does Elevate address
maintaining balance while striving for success?
Elevate underscores the importance of self-management: protecting your energy, setting boundaries, and embedding habits that support well-being. It advocates for prioritising self-care through regular movement, mindfulness practices, and structured routines. Celebrating progress and embracing a life plan that integrates career ambitions with mental health safeguards are key strategies to maintaining balance while achieving success.
4. Who were the most influential mentors in your respective careers, and
how did they shape your philosophies shared in the book?
Should India dismantle the Jaiswal-Rahul opening duo to let their skipper bat at a position where he has racked up numerous records across formats?
Shannah:
For me coaching elite athletes instilled the principles of discipline, resilience, and preparation. Working with individuals under immense pressure taught me that success is about mindset, consistency, and adaptability - principles I now share to help others elevate their potential.
Colleen:
For me inclusive leaders who prioritised integrity and a people-first philosophy deeply influenced her journey. They demonstrated that leadership is about building trust, fostering connection, and empowering others, reinforcing the value of empathy and authenticity in driving success.
These experiences shaped Elevates core message: the importance of vision, foundational values, and continual growth. Our journeys highlight how mentorship transforms leaders and inspires lasting impact.
5. Can you share one actionable strategy from Elevate that readers can
implement immediately to improve their personal or professional lives?
One actionable strategy from Elevate is embracing the "3 Ms" to start your day right: Make your bed, Move your body, and Mindfully breathe. These simple habits create momentum and set the tone for a productive, balanced day.
Make your bed:
Completing this small task gives you a feeling of control and accomplishment, helping you feel prepared to tackle bigger goals.
Move your body :
A walk, stretch, or workout boosts energy, improves mood, and sharpens focus—key for personal and professional success.
Mindfully breathe:
Pausing to focus on your breath before diving into the day reduces stress and fosters a calm, intentional mindset.
These steps help protect the asset—you. By cultivating discipline and balance, the 3 Ms set the foundation for a fulfilling and successful day.
6. Both of you have faced challenges in your careers. How do you
recommend readers build resilience to navigate setbacks effectively?
Resilience is rooted in preparation, gratitude, and perspective. Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. Focus on what you can control, surround yourself with a strong support network, and regularly practice gratitude to maintain a positive outlook. A clear life plan acts as an anchor during setbacks, helping you stay aligned with your purpose and navigate adversity with strength. Read More
This article is referenced from
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/
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