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We are always making choices, whether through action or avoidance (inaction). Not choosing is still a choice. This week, Carly Taylor highlights key concepts from the French philosopher, Jean-Paul Satre, who reminds us that freedom isn’t just about opportunity; it comes with the weight of responsibility of our choices.

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In this episode of The Paul Taylor Podcast, I'm joined by ESPN sports broadcaster and author Anne Marie Anderson, who shares how a tragic event at age 23 transformed her approach to risk-taking and career advancement. We delve into her new book "Cultivating Audacity", exploring why some people seem 'luckier' than others, and how to build the courage to take meaningful risks in life and career. Anne Marie reveals helpful strategies for managing fear, silencing your inner critic, and building a powerful support network she calls your "front row". From her journey as a family storyteller to broadcasting to 70 million homes, to leaving a dream job at ESPN headquarters for an uncertain future in California, this conversation is filled with actionable insights on turning fear into data, making strategic career moves, and developing an audacious identity. Whether you're contemplating a career change, battling self-doubt, or simply want to live more boldly, this episode offers concrete steps to help you bridge the gap between the life you dream of and the one you're living.

Key Topics:

• Career Origins: Ann Marie Anderson's journey from being a family storyteller to sports broadcaster
• Life-Changing Moments: How a tragic event inspired her to take more risks
• Understanding Luck: Why "lucky" people succeed through mindset and action
• Handling Fear: Practical ways to manage fear in high-pressure situations
• Inner Critics: Dealing with self-doubt and negative inner voices
• Support Networks: The power of having the right people in your "front row"
• Sports Leadership: Lessons learned from observing elite sports coaches
• Career Choices: Making decisions based on lifestyle rather than just career advancement

Key Takeaways:

• When you fail at something, write down what you learned from the experience instead of viewing it as a negative outcome.
• Before taking a major risk, break it down into smaller test steps to validate if it's worthwhile rather than reckless.
• Use a timer to work in focused 25-minute blocks with short breaks, especially for important tasks you've been putting off.
• Create your own "front row" by identifying 3-5 people who will push, challenge and support you, then explicitly ask them to help hold you accountable.
• When your inner critic appears, acknowledge it but respond with "that's not helpful" and redirect your focus to your next action step.
• Build resilience by deliberately seeking out small rejections or failures in low-stakes situations to desensitise yourself to fear.
• Instead of focusing on outcomes, celebrate the daily actions and effort you put in toward your goals.

Connect with Anne Marie Anderson:
Learn more about Anne Marie Anderson
Anne Marie Anderson on LinkedIn
Anne Marie Anderson on Instagram
Anne Marie Anderson on X

Connect with Paul Taylor:
Learn more about Paul Taylor
Paul Taylor on LinkedIn
Paul Taylor on Instagram
Paul Taylor on YouTube

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