I'm a hardcore, but PROUD, introvert! It's my favorite thing about myself, and I wouldn't change being introverted for all the money in the world. My success in life is because I'm introverted, not despite it.

But to get to the place, I had to challenge the false beliefs that society taught me about what it means to be introverted. Once I understood that being introverted is not something I need to fix, hide, overcome, or change, I discovered my own unique gifts and embody what makes me stand apart from everyone else.

This didn't happen overnight! I spent years in this transition of discovery, shedding, and rebirth.

Growing up, I was very shy. I can't tell you how often I heard "cat got your tongue?" from well-meaning but misguided adults.

I wasn't confident speaking up, didn't know what to say, and most times, I wanted to fade into the background.

Our neighbors, Bob and Cathy, were a lovely, friendly young couple who befriended my parents not long after moving next door. Bob was funny and engaging and desperately wanted to engage with me.

You hear a lot about "mindset work" in the personal development and coaching world.

And, with good reason! Your mindset is the lens through which you perceive and experience life. It shapes what you think, how you feel, your actions, and ultimately, your reality.

Your mindset is the foundation of everything.

Since everyone's mindset is unique, no one experiences the same events in the same way. That's why people who share the same circumstance have vastly different experiences.