On episode 331 of Yo Quiero Dinero, host Jannese Torres sits down with Michelle Seijas, a leadership coach and speaker, to discuss the journey of building confidence and vision in leadership. Michelle shares her personal story of transitioning from a high school principal to a leadership coach, emphasizing the importance of aligning one’s work with personal values and passions. This episode is packed with insights on leadership, community, and the power of evolving one’s career path.
In a world where leadership is often defined by titles and positions, Michelle Seijas offers a refreshing perspective. Her journey from a high school principal to a leadership coach is a testament to the power of confidence and vision. “I was supposed to be a superintendent,” she recalls, but her path took a different turn, leading her to empower others, especially Latinas and people of color, to find value in their strengths.
Michelle’s story is one of evolution, not just a pivot. “I took a six-month sabbatical,” she shares, a decision that allowed her to explore new possibilities. It was during this time that she realized the importance of aligning one’s work with personal values and passions. Her advice? “Write your dream job description with no title on it,” a strategy that helped her find roles that truly resonated with her purpose.
For many, leadership is about hard work and dedication. But Michelle emphasizes the need for tactical skills, especially for people of color. “We are hard workers,” she notes, but to reach the C-suite, one must learn negotiation, strategic planning, and more. Her coaching focuses on bridging these gaps, helping clients advocate for themselves and develop the skills needed to succeed.
Michelle’s journey is also a testament to the power of community. “I had a collection of Latinas who were like, hey, you should apply,” she recalls. This support network was crucial in her development as a leader. She encourages others to leverage their networks, stating, “There’s power in what Michelle is describing, and there is money to be made in your network.”
Building confidence and vision in leadership is not about following a set path but about evolving and aligning with one’s true purpose. Michelle’s journey is a powerful reminder that leadership is not just about titles but about the impact one can make. As she puts it, “How can you take the parts of yourself that you have been great at and put them in a new context?”
Episode 331 Takeaways
- Michelle Sejas transitioned from a career in education to leadership coaching.
- She took a sabbatical to reassess her career and explore entrepreneurship.
- Community and mentorship play crucial roles in professional development.
- Leadership coaching helps individuals of color navigate systemic barriers.
- Self-awareness is key to effective leadership and personal growth.
- Evolving in one’s career is a natural process, not just a pivot.
- First-generation professionals face unique challenges and expectations.
- Emotional intelligence is essential for leaders, especially women of color.
- Creating a supportive space for leaders to express emotions is vital.
- Intentionality in career choices leads to fulfilling professional lives.
Learn more about Michelle Seijas and follow her at @ThrivingChingona.
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