RTDM: Susan Crawford
Susan Crawford
Coach & Speaker
Burlington, ON Canada
We want to get to know you! Briefly tell us about yourself: Where you came from, where you've been and how you live your dream (or are working toward it).
In 2018 I quit my government job after 8 years due to a HUGE misalignment with the values, leadership and overall toxic environment. I started my business during that time and have been creating the life I design ever since. I am a coach, speaker and facilitator. I am a mother, wife and free spirit. I help women become more unapologetic, unconventional and unfuckwithable in how they live, work and play. I am the creator of the "Free to be Me" Movement that helps women change the way they think, feel and act so that they can live their life, fully expressed.
How do you define success and how do you stay motivated to keep working toward it?
Success is an internal feeling. I walked away from the golden handcuffs (paycheque, benefits and a pension) for fulfillment, satisfaction and alignment. Most people thought I was nuts for lack of better word. I know that the work I am doing is important and greatly needed because of the transformation I experienced myself. I want to help other women realize how powerful they are and how that power comes from inside - not the external validation, approval and acceptance we are taught.
What’s been your biggest challenge, perceived failure or fear and how did you overcome it?
managing my limiting beliefs and negative self talk when things don't work right away. I know and trust that this is my path but sometimes the fears of others distract me and try to pull me off course. I rely on my inner leader quite a bit, Moana (Yes, the Disney princess LOL) inspired me while I was finding the courage to follow my intuition and blaze my own trail. When I waver, I seek her guidance (which is really mine when I am at my best) and know that I have everything I need to do what I am here to do.
What’s the best advice you’d give to a younger you?
Listen to and trust yourself. Never be afraid to take the road less traveled.
Share a book, quote and/or idea that's impacted you the most:
I come as 1, I stand as 10,000 -- Maya Angelou; Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
What are you most proud of? Go ahead, boast a little!
My courage and conviction. role modelling for my 2 young daughters what a strong, independent and courageous woman does asking for help along the way being real my trifecta: unapologetic, unconventional, unfuckwithable -- this is where transformation happens
What is something surprising about you?
I am very extroverted but LOVE silence. I need time to recharge or I get overloaded. I am an empath.
What is your favorite vice/guilty pleasure/strange habit? Come on now, we all have them!
I LOVE food. But, only food that I like...I'm not adventurous but I'll never steer you wrong with some killer food combos. For example, potato chips on sandwiches.
Share a time when a perceived failure was actually a blessing in disguise.
I didn't get a promotion that I worked very hard for. I gave a stellar performance for the entire year and stretched myself WAY out of my comfort zone in this new role. It was denied even though my manager fought hard for me. That's when I knew it was time to leave.
What's the smartest investment you’ve made for yourself?
Hiring a coach. I have never been more self-aware, compassionate (to myself) and curious about what's next. She has changed my life. Making that investment has been a game changer for me and my family.
What’s MOST important to you right now?
Making sure I show up in every area of my life as my highest queen self. That can be really hard sometimes and I am a work in progress. I want to be a good example while still being compassionate towards myself as I continue to grow and change.
Follow Susan:
https://www.facebook.com/susan.crawford.167
www.merakiinspired.com
