We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Shannon Fitzpatrick – O’Shea a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Shannon, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What did your parents do right and how has that impacted you in your life and career?
My parents insisted I was all me from an early age. You stood on your own, as your true self in our family. They encouraged our individuality and our creativity. They arrived to help us grow physically, spiritually and emotionally. They fostered my interests in dancing, cooking and service. They taught me who God really is and to have a relationship with Him. I know who I am because of my loving and ever present parents. I am the best of both of them.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I’m a servant. I assess needs and find solutions. I act while others ponder. If I take the first step towards mobilization, I’m confident that those I’ve led in the past will instantly follow me. Our mission field is where ever you are standing. I am an advocate and a case manager. I have helped victims of human trafficking, sexual abuse and natural disasters to be made whole again. I believe in the power of the human spirit and together there is nothing we can’t achieve. I live my life to help those who can’t help themselves.
Training and knowledge matter of course, but beyond that what do you think matters most in terms of succeeding in your field?
Success is tangibly and yet it has many intangibles concurrently. We measure success is a very competitive, worldly way. We reward an odd version of success and we practically ignore viable, hard achieved success.
To me, the intangibles for success include perseverance, fortitude and a strong understanding of your own self worth. Who are you really and what are you capable of? Answering those questions honestly to yourself without outside biased influences is what leads to success.
Mark Twain once said, “The two most important days of your life are…the day you are born and the day when you figure out why.”
What’s your why? It defines us in business and in life. It unlocks the key to success. Never give up! Down but never our. Keep going. Don’t let failure stop you, let it teach you. Be mailable. Be open. Be you.
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
One word. Authenticity. I am the real deal now and always. I don’t have to think about it or pretend. I am who I am and I make no apologies for it because I’m genuine.
There isn’t a phony bone in my body. There are no heirs and I’m not concerned about other people’s perceptions of me. I know who I am and you can’t tell me any different.
I am a kind and nurturing person with compassionate and passion to burn. I’ll be there when I said I will. I got your back. No matter what, you can believe in me and that’s why I’m successful.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lifeinactionmission.com
Image Credits
Steve Lindenberry