Shannah Kennedy's Roadmap to High-Performance Living
Shannah Kennedy, a seasoned high-performance master planner, acclaimed Author and celebrated strategic Life Coach.
With over two decades of empowering individuals, Shannah's story is not just about professional success but a testament to the resilience and authenticity that define her approach to life.
Shannah Kennedy: High Performance Expert, Author and Strategic Life Coach
Having experienced the depths of burnout and chronic fatigue syndrome, Shannah's decision to rewrite her own narrative led her to coaching. It was through her own journey of self-discovery and healing that she found her calling – guiding others to navigate life's challenges and craft their own paths to fulfillment.
My own transformative journey under Shannah's guidance deeply impacted me, shaping my identity, clarifying my values, and empowering me to take control of my life. Grateful for her profound influence, I was inspired to follow in her footsteps, becoming a coach myself and ultimately founding Not Stationary. Her guidance continues to resonate in every aspect of my work and life.
In this exclusive blog, we'll explore the pivotal moments that inspired Shannah's acclaimed books, "The Life Plan" and "Plan B". We'll uncover how her coaching journey began with elite athletes and evolved into transformative walking tours, igniting creativity and motivation in all who join her.
Michelle (M): You know I am huge fan of you and your work, I would love to know what inspired The Life Plan and can you recount the pivotal moments that sparked its inception?
Shannah (S): Coaching elite athletes and business leaders for about 10 years made me realize the importance of knowing oneself beyond job titles. Witnessing the transformative power of personalised plans on my clients' confidence and motivation became the driving force behind "The Life Plan." I wanted the book to be practical and basic, as mastering the basics is fundamental.
M: You have built an incredibly successful coaching business, tell me what drew you to coaching?
S: I burnt out at the age of 30 after marrying my job in corporate sports. I loved my job but had no idea who I was myself. I had not done the work. It was in deep burnout, chronic fatigue syndrome set in, which I still need to manage today 20 years later, that I decided I needed to rewrite my story and take control of my life. I studied coaching, hired a coach, and started my own business coaching athletes in retirement and working with them to build the person outside of their sport so their transition would be smoother and more comfortable, as 20 years ago, there was no support for athletes. I saw a big gap in the market and was passionate about the mental health of athletes. This journey fuelled my commitment to help others navigate their own personal and professional transitions and find fulfilment beyond their careers.
M: You continue to inspire me professionally and personally, could you share with us your typical daily routine?
S: Absolutely. My daily routine is designed to optimise my performance and well-being. It starts with what I call the 3Ms - Making my bed, moving my body, and mindfully breathing. Throughout the day, I incorporate moments of mindfulness, such as three deep breaths every time I wash my hands, which helps regulate my emotions and mindset. In the evening, I wind down with a gratitude journal before lights out.
M: Building on that, what are your go-to desk essentials for optimal productivity?
S: My desk essentials are carefully chosen to support my productivity and focus. I always have my Not Stationery Planner and Notebook on-hand for jotting down lists and capturing ideas. Additionally, I keep a vision board nearby, adorned with power words and quotes that keep me inspired and aligned with my goals.
“True empowerment begins with crafting your personal roadmap to success in both life and leadership.”
Shannah Kennedy
M: Do you have a top performance tip you swear by?
S: Breathwork is my top performance tip. It's our life force and can be used to fire up or calm down. Practicing breathwork allows me to self-regulate, stay in control of my mind, and enjoy the journey through the day.
M: What's your secret to maintaining calm and organisation amidst your busy schedule?
S: My top tip is simple: WRITE IT DOWN! I find that planning in pencil and breaking my goals into manageable tasks keeps me organized. I prefer planning in 12-week blocks, as it aligns perfectly with the mind's ability to manage tasks effectively.
M: What matters most to you when designing your workspaces that support your vision?
S: Aesthetic is paramount in my workspace design. It must exude calmness, confidence, and spaciousness while inspiring creativity. I'm particularly drawn to the elegance of white color schemes and the vitality of lush greenery. Moreover, the tools I use, such as my cherished Not Stationary products, are integral to my workspace ambiance. The exceptional quality and luxurious aesthetics of these tools elevate my productivity and make each task a delightful experience.
M: If you had to describe your approach to business in three words, what would they be?
S: Calm, confident, grounded. These words encapsulate my business philosophy, emphasising the importance of maintaining composure, self-assurance, and stability in the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship.
M: How do you integrate traditional pen-and-paper methods into your strategic processes?
S: I rely on pen and paper for brainstorming, mind mapping, and visual planning. Writing by hand stimulates creativity and helps me capture ideas effectively. Plus, note-taking and reflection are crucial for setting goals and tracking progress.
M: Can you share a valuable lesson you have learned from the growth of your business?
S: Authenticity is paramount. Slow and steady with consistent genuineness has fuelled my coaching success over two decades, proving that staying true to oneself is the ultimate key to lasting growth and impact.
M: As a businesswoman, wife, and mother, who comprises your support network, considering your multifaceted roles?
S: My support network is diverse, reflecting the various aspects of my life. Alongside professionals like my naturopath and trainer, I also seek guidance from mentors and peers who understand the intricacies of business and personal growth. Additionally, my family and friends play a crucial role in providing emotional support and encouragement
M: What aspirations do you hold for your businesses in the coming year?
S: In my 20th year of business, I'm excited to open new doors, collaborate with like-minded individuals, and work on new projects. My latest book, Elevate, and vision board kits heading overseas are just the beginning of what's to come!
M: We love the walking tours that you have recently launched (and we can’t wait to join you on one!), can you share a little more about them?
S: I love to walk every day for my mental health. Combining walking with coaching sessions ignites physical health, reduces anxiety, and fosters creativity. I've taken this passion a step further by organising walking tours on pilgrim trails worldwide, coaching participants while walking an average of 25 km per day.
It such a privilege working with Shannah and we extend our sincerest gratitude to her for graciously sharing her time, wisdom, and invaluable insights with us. Her journey to high-performance living is not only inspiring, but a testament to the transformative power of resilience, authenticity, and dedication. As you navigate your path, draw inspiration from Shannah's example, embracing the principles of self-awareness, goal-setting, and holistic well-being.
Follow Shannah's journey to unlock your own potential and embark on a transformative quest toward a life that is Not Stationary and filled with purpose, vitality, and success.
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