Is It Time to Rewrite Your Story? 

Recently, I had the honor of presenting on perfectionism, imposter syndrome and burnout at the PRSA East Central District Conference.

While many of my talks explore these themes, I always customize each one. For this session, I created worksheets designed to help PR professionals challenge the limiting beliefs and habits that can stall their careers. Participants worked in breakout groups to spark reflection and discussion.

And let me tell you, the discussions were lively!

One moment stood out when I gave the group a two-part challenge:

1. Acknowledge an accomplishment you’ve recently downplayed.
2. Rewrite it as a headline you’d be thrilled to see about a client, organization, or colleague.

A seasoned professional was in the process of rewriting her own story. Her example? Earning her Accreditation in Public Relations (APR), a credential that signifies exceptional leadership and mentorship in public relations. She had achieved this milestone but brushed past it without real recognition, as many of us tend to do. When she reframed her story, the power was undeniable:

“I have taken back the trajectory of my career and achieved the prestigious APR credential.”

Wow. See the difference?

Stories matter—especially the ones we tell ourselves. Yet, in the rush of daily deadlines, many of us forget to celebrate milestones that reflect our leadership.

Humility has its place and acknowledging our own wins can feel uncomfortable, particularly for professionals who are used to shining the spotlight on others.

But we can't afford not to show up for ourselves. When we minimize our achievements or give in to imposter feelings, we risk playing it safe, missing opportunities, leaving money on the table and overworking ourselves to burnout.

💡 Here’s the good news: selling yourself short is a choice, and you can choose differently. What story will you begin rewriting today? If you’d like support in flipping the script and crafting a next chapter you’ll be proud of, let’s connect.

Real Talk

Not long ago, I said no to an opportunity I valued. It wasn’t easy, but it was necessary. That decision reminded me of a powerful truth: every yes is also a no to something (or someone) else. In this short video, I talk about how boundaries aren’t just about limits; they’re about direction. They protect us from burnout and help us focus on the people who are important to us and opportunities that best align with our goals. In leadership, the ability to choose when to step back is just as important as stepping up. Coming soon: new programming to help leaders practice this balance!

In the Spotlight
Core Values Webinar

Saying no gets easier when you’re clear on what you’re really saying yes to. That’s where our core values come in. They’re the compass that guides our decision-making and helps us align our time with what matters most. On Nov. 4, join me for a free webinar where I’ll walk you through simple yet powerful exercises to uncover your core values and explore how to live in alignment with them at work and in life. When you know your values, every decision becomes clearer, and every yes more intentional.

Brain Food

My friend and fellow coach Dr. Darlene Thompson, ACC, recently shared an HBR article on five strategies for cultivating courage in uncertain times. Written by Dr. Ranjay Gulati, Harvard Business School professor and author of How to Be Bold, the framework mirrors much of what we do in coaching. The first strategy—creating a positive narrative—connects directly to rewriting your story and celebrating your wins. After all, courage isn’t something we stumble into. It’s built through practice. 

Rewrite the Headline, Rewrite Your Future

The stories we whisper to ourselves often hold more power than the ones we share aloud. When you choose to rewrite yours with honesty and hope, you’re not just changing the narrative. You’re changing what’s possible for your future.