Dr. Marcia Reynolds
Dr. Marcia Reynolds, Master Certified Coach, has delivered programs in 45 countries. She is faculty for 5 coaching schools in the Americas, Asia and Europe and teaches leaders to use coaching skills in organizations and government agencies.
As a pioneer in the coaching profession, she was the 5th global president of the International Coaching Federation. Global Gurus lists her the #1 Female Coach.
Excerpts from her 5 bestselling books have appeared in business and psychology publications worldwide.
She has a doctorate in Organizational Psychology and two master’s degrees in communication and adult learning.
What were your initial years of growing up like? Tell us about your life before starting your corporate journey/venture/initiative.
I was always in trouble for questioning my teachers and wanting to discuss what I was learning while they were telling us what to know. Their punishment made me feel like an outcast. I lost my way as a teenager and young adult and ended up down a path of drug abuse. It wasn’t until I found my way back to school to feed my curiosity and quench my thirst for learning that I was able to find my inner strength and gifts, rise above my troubles, and forge a successful path helping people to better connect with others to create amazing results.
Every industry that is now a large-scale, top-notch business once started as a small idea in the minds of entrepreneurs. What was that idea or motivation that made you start your business /initiative? What motivated you within to say YES, go for it!”
After rising into leadership positions in technology corporations, I hit the glass ceiling. I was told I would not be promoted anymore but could still accomplish many things. I said, “Yes, I will accomplish many things, but for my own business!” I had 16 years corporate experience and two advanced degrees. I know that if I could not make my own business successful, I could find a job somewhere. There was no “failure” in my future. I loved teaching adults to be better leaders and colleagues. And when I found coaching, I knew I was destined to bring this wonderful process to the world so we could all live to our highest potential together.
Would you like to share with our young budding women entrepreneurs the change you would like to see in the world if given an opportunity?
When we can see beyond our limiting beliefs and fears, we find the path to living lives of purpose and value are within our grasp. I urge all young entrepreneurs to know their mission and vision. When you live in service of your mission and vision, you become more powerful than your fears.
Women are a growing force in the workplaces worldwide, standing shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts. There are cracks in glass ceilings everywhere, with many women breaking through to carve out a space right at the top of the pyramid. What are your thoughts about women leadership today?
We still have a long way to go to overcome bias and inequality in the workplace, but if we women stand together, supporting each other to succeed, we become a strong force to reckon with. Remind yourself that you are smart, strong, resourceful, and caring every morning. Bring that energy with you as you walk through your days, and you will realize what you wish for.
What’s the most important thing you have learned in your personal life and professional journey? What is your personal motto in life?
Stay true to the vision of what you want to create and who you want to become – these become your weapons for dealing with the difficulties you encounter in life.
With your grit and determination, you are making a considerable impact, breaking through, and serving as role models for many budding entrepreneurs. What would you want to say to our young women leaders/audience reading this?
Pay your dues – get experience and good schooling so you have knowledge, skills, and a good resume!