Describe what you're working on and why it's important to you I’m a multi-business owner. But my proudest accomplishment to date is New Girl on the Block, a mentorship program for millennial women in transition. As a self-taught renaissance woman who has mastered the art of getting stuff done by attacking my goals with heart, hard work and by building healthy relationships, I started the mentorship program two years ago in collaboration with my business partner, Safia Bartholomew. Together, we’ve helped over 100 mentees in 6 countries take their distant dreams and turn them into noteworthy achievements.

When I’m not mentoring, I’m motivational speaking on a stage somewhere in the world, working on the film adaptation to my novel, Everything I Couldn’t Tell My Mother or ghostwriting for Fortune 500 CEOs, Professional Athletes or celebrity clients.

My work is important to me because I believe that you are never out of options. My story exemplifies what it means to gain control of one’s life through self-determination and blind faith. With the discouragement of the naysayers, I’ve learned to silence the noise of those around me so that I could hear my own voice louder. That voice always tells me to take risk and follow my dreams. This self-reliance is the motivation to focus on making sure that other people, especially young women, pursue the things that they love. I hope to teach them to believe in themselves despite their perceived flaws or negative situations.

How does your role empower you?

Regrettably, I made the decision to end my life during my second year of college. With the belief that it was impossible to bounce back from my misery or shut off the tiny voice inside my head, I often struggled with depression and suicidal thoughts and then one day chose to honor them.

People may see my highlight reel on social media, but what makes me feel empowered is the journey to how I got here. I’m a woman who has fought for her dreams and won. After a full recovery, I made a promise to myself that I would set out on a mission to discover my purpose and wouldn’t give up until I tapped into exactly what it was.

There was a time when I didn’t know if I would ever make it through my struggles. People told me that I would never be successful. But I’ve been fortunate enough to have several amazing women show me that my past doesn’t have to define my future and my failures aren’t a measure of my potential.

What advice do you have to other young women looking to get involved in your field of work?

No matter the product or service you offer, you need to master the art of selling. Strive to turn your conversations into leads. One key success strategy is understanding people; their pain points, what inspires them and how you can create a unique experience from the moment they connect with you.

Who is your biggest role model, why?

I have amazing mentors in my circle who have all contributed to my success in some aspect or another. But as of right now, I have been spending enormous amounts of time watching talks conducted by Jeff Weiner, CEO at LinkedIn. LinkedIn has been such an incredible networking tool for me over the years and most recently I’ve been curious to study the leadership team. Jeff has taught me the importance of compassion as well as the significance of problem solving skills and getting shit done.

What book do you recommend every young professional should read?

I Shouldn’t Be Telling You This: Success Secrets Every Gutsy Girl Should Know by Kate White

If you could go back to your 16 year old self, what would you say? Chase dreams instead of chasing men.

Why do you think groups like YWiB are important?

I discovered your organization via LinkedIn. I think it’s extremely important to have groups such as this one so women know that they are not alone. Passion can take you anywhere all you have to do is focus on the next positive step. It’s much easier to take this step if you feel supported.

What can our readers do to help you?

I enjoy using my platform to change lives. If you're interested in working with me, please feel free to reach out for a conversation at pauleanna@pauleannareid.com

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Mogul Talk: https://mogultalk.biz

New Girl on the Block: https://newgirlontheblock.com