Soul & Science Pod Newsletter #4 - Shelley Paxton

Each week on the Soul & Science podcast, 

we speak to some of the marketing greats of our era 

who are building mega brands through rapid change, digital transformation 

and consumer switchbacks. We are on a journey to learn if marketing 

lives more in the heart or in the head. 

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This Week’s Episode

#57: From CMO to Chief Soul Officer | Shelley Paxton

On this episode, Shelley Paxton, Former CMO of Harley Davidson and author of Soulbbatical, discusses choosing personal values over seeking validation, using authenticity as a catalyst for your career, and redefining success so you can live in alignment with your true self.

It is rare we get a glimpse into the mind of someone as accomplished as Shelley, who has also gone to great lengths to do the inner work required to nurture and make sure she is showing up as the best version of herself. 

We have all faced moments in our life where we feel out of alignment with our true selves in order to pursue a goal that we “think” is important.

I walked away from this conversation inspired. It was refreshing to see someone who is motivated to accomplish but also show up as the best version of herself! There were some amazing learnings as we discussed the complexities of balancing life both personally and professionally. 

Main topics: 

"Choosing Values Over Validation - The Shelley Paxton Way"

1. Values Over Validation: A New Paradigm for Decision-Making

Shelley emphasized the importance of prioritizing personal values over seeking external validation. This approach transforms decision-making. Here is how:

• Introspection: Identify your core values. What truly motivates you? What principles do you refuse to compromise?

  • Personally, I like to practice introspection through meditation - but you should try different modalities and see what works for you.

• Decisive Choices: Every decision should resonate with your values. Shelley advocates a binary approach - it's either a passionate 'yes' or a firm 'no.'

• Personal Fulfillment: Aligning decisions with your values leads to greater personal fulfillment rather than living up to external expectations.

2. The Power of Authenticity: Transforming Life and Career

Paxton's journey highlights how authenticity can revolutionize both personal life and career:

• Questioning the Status Quo: Shelley challenged her life's trajectory by asking, "Is this all there is?" despite her successful career.

  • She reached the top of the mountain, but realized there was more to life. She wanted more depth, something many of us can relate to. This is the reason I do these episodes - If someone out there reading this can understand that climbing the mountain is not the only thing that will make you happy… You can make sure you pursue your career in a way that will put a smile on your face when you look back. 

• Authentic Choices: Her decision to leave Harley-Davidson was rooted in a desire to live authentically, aligned with her inner values.

  • She loved her job, but there was more out there. This goes to show that just because something is good - does not mean it cannot be better!

• Living Unapologetically: Embracing authenticity involves taking bold steps that may not conform to societal norms but are true to oneself.

3. Redefining Success: Personal Definitions Over Societal Standards

Shelley's story teaches us to redefine success on our own terms:

• Beyond Conventional Metrics: Success isn't just about titles or financial gain; it's deeply personal and linked to what brings joy and satisfaction. There is a delicate dance between your personal life and business career. Striking this balance is one of the most important (And most difficult) things you will ever do. 

• Crafting a Personal Success Narrative: Shelley encourages defining success based on personal aspirations and values, not just societal benchmarks.

4. Slowing Down: A Gateway to Deeper Self-Understanding

In our fast-paced world, Shelley underscores the importance of slowing down:

• Reflective Space: Taking time to slow down provides space for self-reflection and realignment with core values.

• Mindful Decision-Making: A slower pace allows for more thoughtful and intentional decisions, reducing reactive and impulsive choices.

  • Once again, take time to go within and find yourself. This could be through a walk, writing, meditation, or whatever you feel called to do to connect within. 

5. Identity Beyond Job Titles: Finding True Self

Paxton's transformation involved detaching her identity from her career achievements:

• Exploring Self-Identity: She engaged in deep introspection to understand who she is beyond her professional role.

• Embracing a Multifaceted Self: Recognizing that identity is more than a job title, Shelley embraced a holistic view of her personal and professional life.

6. Tools for Personal Growth: Practical Strategies for Transformation

Shelley shared practical strategies for personal growth:

The 'I Am' List: Writing down affirmations about who you are at your core – beyond professional achievements – to solidify your self-identity.

Venn Diagram for Alignment: Visualizing the overlap between how you live and what fuels your soul, striving for a larger overlap for a more fulfilling life.

Connect with Shelley Paxton

Shelley Paxton's conversation with Jason Harris offers a compelling call to action for anyone seeking to live a more authentic, value-driven life. Her insights serve as a guide to reevaluate our life choices, redefine our definition of success, and embrace our true selves beyond our professional identities.

I really enjoyed our time speaking, and I think you will benefit greatly from getting to know her more. 

To further explore Shelley Paxton's philosophy, visit her website at shellypaxton.com. Follow her journey on LinkedIn and Instagram (@soulbatical), and listen to her insights on the Rebel Souls podcast.

Here’s to your journey in becoming your own Chief Soul Officer,

 MARKETING MANTRAS

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